The Billy Bishop Legion in Vancouver’s Kitsilano area is not your typical spot. While veterans enjoy drinks in the pub downstairs, upstairs, you’ll find people like Hannah, a 37-year-old who loves doing yoga there. Legions nationwide are shifting their focus to attract younger members like Hannah, offering free membership this year to celebrate the Royal Canadian Legion’s 100th year.
Legions have always been a place for veterans’ support and community events. Nujma Bond, a spokesperson for the Royal Canadian Legion, mentioned that while the core mission remains, many branches are evolving to adapt to new members and ideas. The organization has seen a surge in membership, welcoming over 100,000 new members this year, totaling more than 300,000.
Despite the growth, some legions have faced closures due to financial issues. Dennis Mills, president of the Bala Legion in Muskoka Lakes, Ontario, shared the branch’s success story after nearly shutting down a decade ago. They now offer affordable dining and events, aiming to attract a diverse audience. The Bala Legion is even exploring new opportunities like providing affordable housing units to sustain its operations.
Mills stressed the importance of new members for the Legion’s future, urging Canadians to join and support the community’s vitality.