The Honourable Ida Chong, Minister of Community, Sport and Cultural Development, announced funding to support Legion Week — June 24 to 30— festivities in 53 communities.

Legion Week is officially proclaimed by the government of British Columbia and the Yukon. It is a time to showcase the incredible charitable and volunteer work of the Legion, which touches the lives of all fellow citizens.

Did you know that the Legion is the largest developer of veteran and senior affordable and assisted living housing? Did you know that the Legion contributes significantly to medical research and special hospital equipment? Did you know that the majority of B.C. family physicians are trained through the UBC program sponsored by the Legion? Did you know that the Legion sponsors the majority of youth sports teams and youth organizations? Did you know that the Legion raises $21 million through gaming which is re-invested in community programs?  Yes, the list goes on and on — no doubt one of our community’s best kept secrets.

In Invermere, Legion Week festivities kicked off early with the Veteran’s Luncheon at noon on Monday (June 18) and was a great opportunity for all veterans to get together and meet other ex-military people who live in the valley.

The Invermere Legion is also having an open house with free hotdogs and pop in conjunction with re-introducing the Saturday Legion Market on Saturday (June 23). Everyone is welcome. The Legion market will run each Saturday morning up to and including September 1. For information, contact Elizabeth Carlow at 250-688-0640 — we are hoping to see a big turnout.

Your local Legion’s efforts continue with the organizing and sponsorship of the Canada Day Parade on July 1. It is a great opportunity to show your community spirit by either participating in the parade or being a spectator as the parade moves down Main Street, and don’t miss the Mountain Mosaic events down at Kinsmen Beach afterward.

Check out the events, enjoy the festivities, and support your local Legion.  Visit your local Legion Branch, join and become part of your community’s growth.

—Submitted by Elizabeth Carlow, RCL Branch 71 Secretary