The Ladner Legion prides itself on being a part of the community in every way possible.
Whether that’s sourcing local meat, fish and produce for the food for its kitchen to fundraising and giving back, the Ladner Legion is all about its community.
“We are very, very active in the community. It means everything to everybody for our members to be a part of the community,” said president Al Ridgway. “It seems every weekend we are doing something. Even if we raise just a few hundred bucks, it all goes into the kitty.”
One of the major fundraising events is the popular meat draws held every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.
Executive member Bob Taggart said after the bills are paid, everything else gets donated locally.
Other fundraisers include the May Days beer garden, a pancake breakfast during the Quilt Walk and Car Show, weekly open mic and jam sessions, special dinners and events.
The Legion helps support slo-pitch, lacrosse and hockey teams, which in turn help support the Legion by stopping by after games for a drink or a meal.
The Poppy Fund is another major initiative that helps the Legion assist its veterans.
“We have wheelchairs, walkers, crutches – if they need something, all they have to do is come in and sign a form and they have access to this equipment,” said Taggart. “If our veterans need anything, we are there to assist.”
Benefactors of the Legion’s generosity are vast, but over the years more than $250,000 has been donated to Delta Hospital. Funds have also been donated to Deltassist, Delta Hospice, Meals on Wheels, Operation Red Nose and the Torch Run for Special Olympics. The Ladner Legion is also the core organizer of the annual Christmas gift and food hampers.
And although the primary focus is to keep funds local, the Legion does give back to the Variety Club, Kidney Foundation and BC Cancer.
