Canadian Walk for Veterans Set to Honor Service This Weekend

The Canadian Walk for Veterans will take place on March 18, 2024, in Prince Albert at Kinsmen Park, aiming to raise funds for True Patriot Love. This foundation supports local mental health programs, rehabilitation initiatives, and other essential services for veterans, active service members, and their families.

Event Details and Objectives

A significant portion of the proceeds from this local event will benefit the River Valley Resilience Retreat (RVRR), located near St. Louis. Participants are encouraged to gather at the Kinsmen Park amphitheatre for registration at noon, with the walk commencing at 1 p.m. after brief remarks from event organizers.

“We don’t turn it into a big ceremony. We want to focus on the mindful walk of honoring the Canadian Armed Forces members from the past and present,” says Michelle McKeaveney, an organizer and co-founder of RVRR. She highlights the importance of the event, especially in light of current deployments to places like Latvia.

For those unable to attend in person, there is also an option to participate virtually. Every registered participant will receive the 2025 Canadian Walk for Veterans challenge coin, designed by the veteran-owned Sharkz Coins based in Esquimalt, B.C.

Support and Community Impact

McKeaveney describes RVRR as a sanctuary for individuals exposed to workplace trauma or diagnosed with PTSD. The retreat spans 25.5 acres and features trails for walking, along with five cabins for visitors seeking a break from urban life.

“If someone needs a quick getaway from the city and the sirens, they can come out and enjoy food, coffee, and have access to peer support trained in their demographic,” she explains. This year, RVRR has experienced a noticeable increase in clients compared to the previous year, indicating a growing demand for such support services.

McKeaveney invites families to join the walk, emphasizing the opportunity for children to learn about veterans’ contributions. “Children are taught about Remembrance Day, and this is Remembrance Day in action,” she states.

To honor all generations of veterans, the theme for the 2025 Canadian Walk for Veterans is “Honouring the Past; Supporting the Journey.” This event not only raises funds but also fosters community engagement and recognition of the sacrifices made by service members throughout history.