Homes for Heroes Fundraiser
The Homes for Heroes fundraiser grew out of relationships formed on Remembrance Day in Casselman. That day, I met Sue and Al Milner, founders of Footsteps of Canadian Heroes, who travel across the country with a trailer displaying photos of fallen veterans to raise awareness and keep their memories alive. Through them, I was introduced to Brent Schreiner from Canadian Heroes Foundation, who also works to honour fallen heroes within our community. Those connections led to a shared desire to do something tangible to support veterans, which became the foundation for this fundraiser.
How the Community Was Engaged
This fundraiser was built collaboratively with veterans, advocates, organizations, and community members working side by side. I worked alongside the planning group to help bring the event together, but the leadership, experience, and momentum came from people deeply connected to the veteran community. Together, we planned a fundraiser in support of Homes For Heroes, an organization that provides housing for veterans experiencing homelessness and supports them through recovery and wraparound services. All funds raised through the event were directed toward this work.
Veteran vendors participated by sharing their services and artwork, while veteran service providers were present to offer support to veterans who attended. Local vendors also took part, creating a space that brought the broader community into direct connection with those who serve and support veterans. One of the community highlights included Al Blanchard, who ran arm-wrestling competitions throughout the vendor show alongside his two children, adding a family-friendly and engaging element that helped draw people together throughout the day.
How This Informed My Work
Working on this fundraiser reinforced the importance of relationship-based leadership and collaboration. Veterans and advocates brought lived experience, networks, and credibility that shaped every aspect of the event. I had the opportunity to volunteer and work alongside people deeply committed to this cause, including Alex, a veteran whom I met volunteering at the Red Cross, Riders 4 Veterans, the Rolling Barrage and many more. This work reinforced my belief that effective community engagement happens when municipal leadership works shoulder to shoulder with people who have lived experience and are ready to lead.
A Concrete Outcome
The fundraiser successfully raised significant funds for Homes For Heroes while also creating meaningful connections between veterans, service providers, and residents. A local Legion organized a dart tournament to support the cause, and a silent auction further contributed to fundraising efforts. The day concluded with a community rock concert featuring Last Minute Decision and Highway Child, along with a performance by the Military Wives Choir, bringing people together in a shared moment of reflection, respect, and community support. Community members were able to meet local heroes, learn about the realities veterans face, and connect directly with organizations working on the ground. Beyond the funds raised, the event strengthened relationships across veteran networks, community groups, and local organizations, demonstrating what is possible when people come together with shared purpose and mutual respect.
These initiatives reflect a commitment to community-led action, supported through inclusive structures and democratic participation.