Ottawa, ON, Canada – June 3, 2022: At every tradeshow where we exhibit, Genoa chooses a local charity to partner with.

We provide them with a monetary donation and exposure to get the message out there about their organization. Upon recommendation from an Ottawa team member, Tom Moyle, for CANSEC 2022, we invited the Ottawa-based organization, Soldier On, to join us in our booth to help spread the word about their incredible work. Soldier On is a program of the Canadian Armed Forces that provides opportunities and resources through sports, recreational, and creative activities to ill and injured veterans. Seeing the support behind this initiative was amazing, and we couldn’t have been happier to be involved. It was wonderful to see so many people who knew about the program as well as get to know the program.

WHAT IS SOLDIER ON?

Soldier On is a program of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) which contributes to the recovery of ill and injured CAF members and veterans by providing opportunities and resources through sport, recreational, and creative activities. Soldier On is recognized for improving the quality of life of the ill and injured and is a highly visible and integral component of the Department of National Defence, and the CAF’s commitment to the care of ill and injured members. Generous Canadians support the program through donations and fundraising to the Soldier On Fund, which is managed by Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services.

WHAT DOES SOLDIER ON DO?

Since 2007, Soldier On has supported over 8800 ill and injured members using sport and physical recreational activities to enable social support, build confidence in their abilities and realize their full potential. Soldier On provides members with a safe environment to challenge themselves and become inspired in ways that they may not have thought possible, contributing to and providing a gateway to enhance one’s well-being. This re-introduction to an active lifestyle provides opportunities to develop new skills, build confidence and meet peers with similar challenges.

DOES IT MAKE A DIFFERENCE?

Many ill/injured members credit Soldier On with helping in their recovery, overcoming their challenges, opening doors to other life opportunities, and assisting in their transition to civilian life.

We chatted with Soldier On National Outreach Coordinator, Melanie Borges, about her involvement with this incredible organization.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT HOW YOU FIRST BECAME INVOLVED WITH THIS ORGANIZATION?

Melanie: I joined Soldier On in 2019 as the Fund Coordinator from a sister organization called SISIP. In this position, I helped our members apply for and receive equipment grants. Our members can receive equipment grants of up to $750 to help outfit them with equipment or memberships. Our goal is to keep them active for life!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PART ABOUT WORKING WITH THIS ORGANIZATION? WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNED?

Melanie:  Soldier On members are easily the best part of working with this organization. Our members are inspirational people, and meeting them is an absolute privilege. I have heard stories of unimaginable pain, perseverance, and dedication. Despite their circumstances, every member I meet is an upbeat attitude and a grateful heart. It inspires me every day!

HOW WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE AT THE GENOA BOOTH DURING CANSEC 2022?

Melanie: It was an absolute pleasure to be invited by Genoa to CANSEC 2022. The entire team was so kind, and it was a wonderful opportunity to spread the message of Soldier On to the defence community.

CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT SOME OF THE UPCOMING EVENTS?

Melanie: Soldier On runs over 150 events for our members across the country every year. Some upcoming events include Conquer the Rideau Canal, a PEI Water Sports Day and an Intro to Disc Golf Day in Dieppe. We are also very excited to send Team Canada to the Warrior Games in Orlando in August!

WHY DO YOU THINK IT’S IMPORTANT FOR A COMPANY LIKE GENOA TO SUPPORT ITS SURROUNDING COMMUNITY?

Melanie: There are so many people in our communities who need a little extra support. Soldier On relies heavily on support from generous Canadian and organizations like Genoa to support the 10,000 ill and injured military members and veterans in our membership. We would not be able to provide our much-needed programming without it.

CAN YOU SUMMARIZE WHY COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT IS IMPORTANT IN 3 WORDS?

Melanie: It changes lives.

Pictures 4-11 and video property of Soldier On.