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Encounters with Canada, a unique program which includes more than 81,000 alumni, sharing a unique experience and feeling of belonging, is returning to its original name

Encounters with Canada, the popular youth program held at the Terry Fox Canadian Youth Centre in Ottawa, is returning to its original name. As the largest youth forum in Canada, it has had a profound impact on a whole generation of Canadians over the past 25 years.

“We listened to the feedback from teachers, volunteers and alumni," said Mr. Colin Robertson, President of the Historica Foundation of Canada, which has taken over the program since September 2006. "Our partners in the community, including the Royal Canadian Legion and other service organizations, also encouraged us to return to the original name. We recognize that 'Encounters with Canada' reflects what the program is all about and is part of actively enhancing what is a proven, successful program. The return to 'Encounters with Canada' will contribute to our ongoing efforts.”

The name 'Encounters with Canada' will be preceded by Historica’s banner, a charitable organization dedicated to helping Canadians discover the fascinating stories that make our country unique. Through Historica’s education programs and authoritative resources, it connects Canadians to our many histories. We invite you to learn more about Historica and Encounters with Canada at www.histori.ca.

For more information, please contact:

Jacinthe Benoit
Director of Communications
Encounters with Canada
1-800-361-0419, extension 224
613-744-1290, extension 224
jbenoit@histori.ca


Historica - Encounters with Canada, at a glance:

• Encounters with Canada is an educational program, complete with housing, situated at the Terry Fox Canadian Youth Centre in Ottawa
• The program hosts 3,000 high school students, ages 14 to 17, from across the country every year
• Encounters with Canada is a one-week program about citizenship awareness and leadership skills, divided into two parts: familiarization with Canadian institutions and exploration of one career theme
• 2007 marks the 25th anniversary of the Encounters with Canada program.