WOUNDED WARRIORS CANADA AND THE ROYAL CANADIAN LEGION – ONTARIO PROVINCIAL COMMAND CELEBRATE THE 100TH PTSD SERVICE DOG PAIRED IN ONTARIO

Wounded Warriors Canada and The Royal Canadian Legion – Ontario Provincial Command (RCL-OPC) are proud to announce the pairing of the 100^th Veteran in Ontario with a PTSD Service Dog. This important milestone has been made possible thanks to RCL-OPC’s Operation Service Dog initiative.

“For more than twelve years, Wounded Warriors Canada has been committed to providing PTSD Service Dogs. We are proud of the team we have built from coast to coast, training and pairing dogs to the highest standards,” said Capt. (Ret’d) Philip C. Ralph, CD. Director of Clinical Services. “The vision and leadership of our partners, The Legion’s Ontario Provincial Command Branches and Ladies’ Auxiliaries in Operation Service Dog, have been transformational since 2018, providing stable funding that has enabled us to expand, as reflected in today’s celebration. This partnership benefits our Veterans in Ontario and has had a positive ripple effect across the country. Together, we will continue to raise the bar on standards and ensure that these life-changing dogs remain available for years to come. As our Service Dog providers mature, we remain committed to increasing capacity while maintaining the highest standards.”

Since the partnership between the two organizations began in 2018, the funding provided by RCL-OPC through Operation Service Dog has made a significant impact in Wounded Warriors Canada’s ability to fund the training and pairing of these life-changing, canine companions. 

“We are thrilled to see the 100th leash meet the 100th hand. That it’s happening during the Legion’s 100^th anniversary year is additionally meaningful. Each of the ninety-nine other times we witnessed a pairing, the world also got a little brighter. We are humbled to have had a role in helping these heroes find their footing, and these dogs find their purpose. One soul can endure the weight of service but two working together, eases the pain,” said Mr. Lynn McClellan, Provincial President, The Royal Canadian Legion, Ontario Provincial Command. “We thank Wounded Warriors Canada and the approved Service Dog handlers who have partnered with the Legion’s Ontario Provincial Command Branches, and our Ladies’ Auxiliaries Operation Service Dog program. We salute all those who have served, those still serving, and all their families.”

I GOT MIND PARTNER WITH WOUNDED WARRIORS CANADA

Wounded Warriors Canada is proud to announce a new partnership with I Got Mind, grounded in a shared commitment to supporting individuals and communities impacted by trauma. The two organizations will work together to amplify awareness, education and resources that foster resilience, understanding and recovery.

“There is natural alignment between our organizations in recognition of the impacts of traumatic event exposure – regardless of profession,” says Scott Maxwell, Chief Executive Officer, Wounded Warriors Canada. “This partnership allows us to complement one another’s strengths while remaining focused on those we serve. By working together, we are extending the reach of our collective efforts and reinforcing the message that no one should have to navigate the impact and effects of trauma alone.”

I Got Mind is a community-driven initiative focused on breaking down stigma and creating space for open conversations around mental health and trauma across all walks of life.

Bob Wilke, President, I Got Mind, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in creating meaningful change. “Partnering with Wounded Warriors Canada allows us to deepen our impact and continue building conversations that normalize mental health challenges and encourage people to seek support.”

Through this collaboration, Wounded Warriors Canada and I Got Mind will explore joint initiatives, shared storytelling and educational opportunities aimed at reducing stigma, increasing awareness, and promoting trauma-informed approaches within communities across Canada.

To officially kick-off the partnership, Wounded Warriors Canada President, Scott Maxwell will be part of a discussion panel during an event in Calgary on February 23 where they will be airing the documentary Sideways – the story of the 1986 Swift Current Broncos bus crash where Wilkie lost four of his teammates. The local Wound Warriors Canada community will be invited to attend.

OPERATIONAL STRESS INTERVENTION DOG SADIE JOINS CALGARY POLICE SERVICE

Wounded Warriors Canada is proud to announce the pairing of a new Operational Stress Intervention Dog with the Calgary Police Service (CPS). OSID Sadie was made possible thanks to funding from Wounded Warriors Canada, which supports the training provided by BC & Alberta Guide Dogs. Wounded Warriors Canada’s funding of Sadie was made possible thanks to the support of the Calgary-based Pulling Together for Mental Health annual fundraising event.

“The health and well-being of all CPS members, both sworn and civilian, is essential to the work we do every day,” says Chief Katie McLellan of the Calgary Police Service. “Our first Operational Stress Intervention Dog represents a step forward in helping our members navigate the emotional demands of policing. This meaningful partnership with Wounded Warriors Canada, the B.C. and Alberta Guide Dogs, as well as Pulling Together for Mental Health, reinforces our commitment to creating a resilient, healthy workplace. When we take care of the people who serve the city, they’re better equipped to take care of the community.”

“Police officers are required to respond to critical and potentially traumatic incidents on a daily basis,” said Scott Maxwell, CEO Wounded Warriors Canada. “We know that repeated exposure to traumatic incidents can have long-lasting impacts on the members and, by extension, the organization itself. We also know the importance of being proactive and getting in front of these situations to help members feel safe, supported and understood. That’s a big part of the role Sadie will play with the Calgary Police Service. We’re extremely grateful to the Pulling Together team for their support, which has made this pairing possible.”

“Sadie exists because a community pulled together,” said Jade Wong and Rory Thompson, Co-Founders, Pulling Together for Mental Health. “She represents the support of people who believe in the importance of Veteran and First Responder mental health, and we know she will have a lasting impact within the Calgary Police Service. This is why Pulling Together exists.”

Sadie’s role will be to provide support for all sworn and civilian employees of the organization. She has a gentle disposition and is trained to recognize signs of agitation to interrupt the process by providing a calming demeanor.

“Operational Stress Intervention Dogs (OSID) from BC & Alberta Guide Dogs are professional working dogs that assist Trauma Exposed Professionals in a workplace environment to achieve therapeutic goals through specifically trained activities, and tasked behaviours, accompanied by a highly specialized temperament,” said Mike Annan, Director of Service Dogs with BC & Alberta Guide Dogs. “These highly trained intervention dogs are specially bred and selected for stress modulation and the capacity to absorb or redirect tension without being overwhelmed. Together, these specialized activities and capacities facilitate the dogs’ ability to work with many different people. This is done by way of assisting in achieving a wide variety of therapeutic goals as the OSID has been specifically bred, raised and trained by BC & Alberta Guide Dogs and our Certified Professional Service Dog Instructors in partnership with Wounded Warriors Canada to work with and support the Calgary Police Service and their employee well-being.”

BMO PARTNERS WITH WOUNDED WARRIORS CANADA TO EXPAND ACCESS TO TRAUMA SUPPORT FOR VETERANS & FIRST RESPONDER FAMILIES

Wounded Warriors Canada is proud to announce a new three-year, $450,000 partnership with BMO. The partnership will support the delivery of Wounded Warriors’ innovative Spousal Resiliency Program (SRP), both through in-person sessions and the development of a nationally accessible digital format. The program is designed to support spouses and partners of Trauma Exposed Professionals including Veterans and First Responders.

The Spousal Resiliency Program has been clinically developed to help participants understand and regulate their emotions, strengthen social connections, and restore hope within relationships impacted by operational stress injuries. The newly developed digital format will provide guided modules to help participants explore the roots of emotional responses, learn resourcing skills, and identify personal goals that foster renewal and well-being. Each module integrates discussion, psychoeducation, and guided breathwork to create a supportive and practical learning experience.

“We are incredibly grateful for this significant commitment from BMO. The families of our Veterans and First Responders far too often struggle to find culturally specific mental health resources across the country that can leave them feeling isolated and lacking connection to their sense of self,” said Scott Maxwell, Wounded Warriors Canada Chief Executive Officer. “The Spousal Resiliency Program has been developed specifically for the unique needs of this population and works to help our participants identify their own future-focused needs that promote renewal and hope. What’s more, digitizing SRP into an asynchronous program will remove geographical and financial barriers to care while allowing us to offer the program to families in every region of our vast country.”

“At BMO, we are deeply committed to supporting the well-being of Canada’s Veterans, First Responders, and their families,” said Mike Bonner, Head, Canadian Personal and Business Banking Distribution, BMO and Executive Sponsor, Veterans Advisory Council. “As the official Bank of the Canadian Defence Community, we are proud to partner with Wounded Warriors Canada to expand access to the Spousal Resiliency Program. This initiative reflects our shared dedication to removing barriers to care, building stronger communities, and ensuring that families impacted by trauma have access to culturally informed, life-changing support no matter where they live.”

Department of National Defence’s Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre (SMSRC) has provided $175000 grant funding over the next three years to Wounded Warriors Canada partnered with Survivor Perspectives Consulting Group.

Department of National Defence’s Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre (SMSRC) has provided $175,000 grant funding over the next three years.

The SMSRC’s Community Support for Sexual Misconduct Survivors Grant Program is funding community organizations to expand culturally competent services (counselling, crisis support, etc.) for the broader defence community (CAF, DND, Veterans, families, Cadets, etc.) affected by sexual misconduct. It provides project-based or recurrent funding to improve access and collaboration.

Wounded Warriors Canada will use these funds in conjunction with Survivor Perspectives Consulting Group (SPCG)  to deliver Front Line Workshop, a unique program featuring the survivor perspective in a professionally curated, day-long workshop designed to engage the audience to help foster change.

SPCG is a Canadian-based, survivor-led consulting firm that provides trauma-informed training and system transformation services to military, public, and Indigenous sectors, with a focus on addressing sexual misconduct and gender-based violence.

TAYLOR FIRE RESCUE PARTNERS WITH WOUNDED WARRIORS CANADA FOR ENHANCED MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT

Wounded Warriors Canada is excited to announce a partnership with Taylor Fire Rescue, aimed at providing innovative mental health training and support services to Taylor Fire Rescue firefighters and their families.

As Scott Maxwell, CEO of Wounded Warriors Canada, explains, “Given the complexities of operational stress injuries, we know that no single organization can provide the 100% solution when it comes to the mental health and wellness needs of its members and their families.  Partnerships are vital.” He adds, “We are proud to announce this innovative new partnership with the Taylor Fire Rescue and look forward to working together in the months and years to come.”

Through this partnership, Taylor Firefighters and their families will have enhanced access to occupationally informed services that incorporate a blend of education, counselling, and training approaches, fostering resilience and aiding recovery from post-traumatic injuries.

“Firefighters face extraordinary challenges every day, both on and off the job,” said Deputy Fire Chief John Hicks. “Through our partnership with Wounded Warriors Canada, we’re ensuring our members have the tools, support, and training they need to stay strong, resilient, and ready to serve our community.”

WCB-ALBERTA PARTNERS WITH WOUNDED WARRIORS CANADA TO ADVANCE EDUCATION ABOUT OCCUPATIONAL PSYCHOLOGICAL INJURIES

Wounded Warriors Canada is excited to announce a partnership with Workers’ Compensation Board – Alberta (WCB-Alberta).  As awareness of occupational psychological injuries continues to grow, this partnership aims to expand the reach and impact of education initiatives that highlight the nature of these injuries and the benefits of return to work. These initiatives will engage injured workers, employers and psychology service providers, fostering a more informed and supportive recovery experience.

“Helping injured workers with their recovery and return to work is at the heart of what we do,” says Trevor Alexander, WCB-Alberta’s President & CEO. “Psychological injuries can have a profound impact on workers, their families, communities and workplaces as a whole. Our partnership with Wounded Warriors Canada deepens our commitment to care and culturally informed services to support resilience and recovery for those affected.”

WWC’s expertise in culturally informed resiliency training and trauma recovery for veterans, first responders and health-care workers aligns with WCB’s focus to reduce the impact of workplace injuries and help workers achieve meaningful recovery and return-to-work outcomes.

“This is another significant milestone for Wounded Warriors Canada and, ultimately, those we serve. Our partnership with WCB-Alberta speaks to the power of collaboration and a shared commitment to helping ensure our injured trauma-exposed professionals receive the culturally specific mental health supports they need and deserve,” says Scott Maxwell, Chief Executive Officer of Wounded Warriors Canada. “We look forward to building on our work underway and supporting WCB-Alberta’s program to best serve those who keep the province safe.”

About WCB-Alberta

WCB-Alberta administers the Workers’ Compensation Act for the province’s workers and employers. Funded by employers, WCB-Alberta provides cost-effective disability and liability coverage for work-related injury and illness. WCB-Alberta compensates workers for lost income and coordinates the services they need to recover and return to work following a work-related injury or illness.

WOOLWICH FIRE DEPARTMENT PARTNERS WITH WOUNDED WARRIORS CANADA

Wounded Warriors Canada is excited to announce a partnership with the Woolwich Fire Department, aimed at providing innovative mental health training and support services to Woolwich Firefighters and their families.

“We recognize that supporting the mental health of our firefighters is just as vital as ensuring their physical safety”, said Chief Dennis Aldous of Woolwich Fire.  “Partnering with Wounded Warriors Canada allows us to provide our fire personnel and their families with access to specialized, trusted resources that address the unique challenges of our profession.  We are proud to partner with an organization that shares our commitment to the long-term health and resilience of those who serve.”

Through this partnership, WWC will offer occupationally informed services that incorporate a blend of education, counselling, and training approaches, fostering resilience and aiding recovery from post-trauma injuries.

As Scott Maxwell, Executive Director of Wounded Warriors Canada, explains, “Given the complexities of operational stress injuries, we know that no single organization can provide the 100% solution when it comes to the mental health and wellness needs of its members and their families.  Partnerships are vital.” He adds, “We are proud to announce this innovative new partnership with the Woolwich Fire Department and look forward to working together in the months and years to come.”

GASPAROTTO GROUP COMPLETES 1,000KM PADDLE FOR RESILIENCE, RAISING $100K FOR WOUNDED WARRIORS CANADA

The Gasparotto Group, a veteran-owned leadership development firm founded by retired military officer Mark Gasparotto, completed its 1,000km Paddle For Resilience in Ottawa on Saturday, raising $100,000 in support of Wounded Warriors Canada.

“Every stroke of the 1,000 kilometre Paddle For Resilience was for our comrades. We know Wounded Warriors Canada’s story personally, so it’s our honour to raise $100,000 for their important programs. Our leadership was built on the battlefield, and now we will share our lessons from this battle, too.” -Mark Gasparotto, Founder & President, Gasparotto Group.

Company president Mark Gasparotto, Director of Operations Shawn Groves, and associate William Groves canoed 1,000 kilometres down the historic Ottawa River from Lac des Outaouais to Westboro Beach, Ottawa. They started on August 18th and were joined by friends and colleagues along the way. These three are the only paddlers in the expedition to complete the entire 1,000 kilometre paddle.

Inspired by Mark Gasparotto’s keynote speech and workshop entitled, Struggle Well™: My Experiments with Resilience, this expedition is demonstrating extraordinary endurance and resilience.

“Mental health resilience is at the core of every program and service we provide to Canada’s Trauma Exposed Professionals and their families. It’s why our connection and partnership with the Gasparotto Group and the Paddle for Resilience has been such a perfect fit. We are extremely proud of everyone who made the event such a success and are grateful for the awareness and fundraising support this has brought to Wounded Warriors Canada. In the end, partnerships make our programs possible.” –Scott Maxwell, Chief Executive Officer, Wounded Warriors Canada.

WORKSAFE NB TEAMS UP WITH WOUNDED WARRIORS CANADA

Wounded Warriors Canada is excited to announce a new collaboration with WorkSafeNB, highlighting their commitment to protecting both the physical and psychological health of New Brunswick workers.

“Everyone has the right to feel safe at work,” said Tim Petersen, President and CEO of WorkSafeNB. “Through this collaboration, we’re ensuring workers experiencing psychological injuries have access to the best care and support. This is about leadership, compassion and making sure New Brunswick workers and their families have the tools to recover and return to work safely. It also helps support our vision of making New Brunswick the safest place to work.”

Through this joint effort, WorkSafeNB is utilizing our expertise working with injured Trauma Exposed Professionals to deliver new prevention strategies and improved support for traumatic psychological injuries. To date, our work together has included:

•  Full-day in-person Basics of Trauma workshop for WorkSafe NB teams including Case Managers, OT’s, Psych Consultants, CM Trainers and Coaches, Prevention Division and other Managers
•  Half-day TRT-Direct for the WorkSafe NB Investigations Team
•  Half-day TRT-Leadership for WorkSafe NB and First Responder Community Leaders

This announcement represents a significant milestone for our organization and one that reinforces the positive impact of collaboration and the understanding that no single organization can possibly do this work alone — partnerships are vital. We look forward to building on the work underway and supporting WorkSafeNB’s program to best serve those who keep the province safe.

“This is a significant milestone that highlights the power of collaboration while recognizing that no single organization can be the 100% solution when it comes to supporting the unique needs of injured Trauma Exposed Professionals where cultural competence is vital,” said  Scott Maxwell, Chief Executive Officer of Wounded Warriors Canada. “We look forward to building on the work underway and supporting WorkSafeNB’s program to best serve those who keep the province safe.”

Initiatives such as the Rapid Psychological Assessment Network and the SUCCEED program have enhanced support for both service providers and injured workers by offering early intervention and tailored support for those affected by traumatic psychological injuries.

WorkSafeNB worked closely with Wounded Warriors Canada to host the first Atlantic Canada Mental Health Conference for First Responders in Moncton in June 2025, as well as to offer prevention consultation services for workplace psychological health and safety.

“The collaboration between WorkSafeNB and Wounded Warriors Canada is a major step forward in ensuring the safety and well-being of workers in the Province of New Brunswick,” said Dr. Tim Black, National Clinical Director for Wounded Warriors Canada. “Trauma Exposed Professionals are members of our community that are witness to and experience intense levels of human suffering, violence, and death as part of their everyday jobs. Facing this core aspect of the work as a known, predictable, and continual health risk is an innovative approach and advances the opportunities to better care not only for individuals who are injured, but also to prevent career-altering injuries in the future, moving beyond trauma-informed to trauma-skilled care for all workers in New Brunswick.”

The collaboration with Wounded Warriors Canada provides WorkSafeNB with access to the latest research and expert guidance to develop prevention and treatment strategies for traumatic psychological injuries. This marks the first strategic alliance between a Canadian Workers’ Compensation Board and Wounded Warriors Canada.