FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
 
Halifax, Nova Scotia – June 9, 2008 - Since its inception less than a year ago, Halifax’s signature organization for engaging the 20–40 demographic has grown from a small team of volunteers to a city-wide organization of over 1000 members.

FUSION Halifax was launched in October 2007 with a mandate of unleashing networking and volunteer opportunities and creating a stronger sense of community in Halifax.

“To be part of an organization which gives you the opportunity to help shape the future of the city and network with other young professionals is an amazing thing,” says Mark Stiles, a project manager with Jacques Whitford and the official 1000th member. “In my line of work, and being in the city a relatively short time, this type of organization plays a significant role.  I look forward to being part of Fusion Halifax to help ensure the city remains a great place to live, work and play.”

In the past eight months, FUSION Halifax has been busy partnering with existing organizations and planning new events and projects. Some highlights include roundtable discussions with HRM Council and several provincial deputy ministers, urban development presentations, community clean-ups and the first of a quarterly health and wellness series. 

“This milestone, along with the success of our events, really demonstrates the next generation's appetite for change and involvement in our city,” says Peter Moorhouse, chair of FUSION Halifax. “Our goal was and still is to help our members connect with each other - and to opportunities that allow them to contribute in a meaningful way. We’ve achieved a lot so far but it’s only the beginning of what we can do to shape the future of our city and province.”

A special edition of the monthly networking series, FUSION Connects, will take place on Thursday, June 12 at the Halifax Club to celebrate achieving 1000 members.  The event is free of charge and begins at 6:00pm.

Membership to FUSION Halifax is free.  Sign up for news and information on the website www.fusionhalifax.ca. 

About FUSION Halifax
FUSION Halifax is a networking group created by and for young people who are inspired to make their city a better and more sustainable place to live, work and play. Through its members, volunteer committees and dynamic networks, FUSION Halifax showcases existing opportunities—and unleashes new ones—that encourage civic and community engagement.  For more information or to join FUSION Halifax, visit www.fusionhalifax.ca.

-30-

For more information:
Alyson Queen                                                    
Director, Media & Strategic Relations                               
(902) 499-4499