Local charity gala to honour veterans, promote mental health

A local charitable foundation will host a gala next month aimed at raising awareness and funds to support mental health initiatives for veterans.

The March to the Light Charity Gala will feature an engaging evening program, including a presentation by veteran Luke Cyr, who was featured in a story earlier this year by SooToday reporter Alex Flood.

The Nov. 1 event takes place at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 25. 

Tickets are available at this eventbrite link.

Read more about the evening in the following news release:

The Luke Cyr Foundation is excited to announce the March to the Light Charity Gala, taking place on Friday, Nov. 1, 2024, from 7 to 10 p.m. at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 25 in Sault Ste. Marie.

This event looks to bring together community members, veterans, and supporters to raise much-needed awareness and funds for mental health and wellness programs focused on veterans, first responders, and individuals affected by PTSD.

The Gala will feature an engaging evening program, including a presentation by Luke Cyr, veteran and founder of The Luke Cyr Foundation, who will share the Foundation's mission and reveal a major fundraising initiative for 2025.

The event will also showcase highlights from the powerful documentary "Par for the Course: A Soldier's Journey", followed by stories of resilience and hope from those who have benefited from the Foundation’s support programs.

“With the Gala just days away from Remembrance Day, this event is a reminder of the importance of standing by our veterans and first responders who have faced tremendous mental health challenges,” said Luke Cyr.

“This event will allow us to connect, raise awareness, and inspire change. Together, we can make a real difference in the lives of those who have given so much.”

Event highlights:

• The event will be emceed by Shawn Cyr, a member of the Sault Ste Marie Police Service, who will introduce the Foundation’s impactful work and set the stage for the evening.
• Guest speakers Steve Ogilvie, a veteran, and his wife, Melissa, will provide personal insights and updates on mental health challenges and successes within the community.
• Video Features showcasing the life-changing work of The Caddie School for Soldiers, an initiative that provides veterans with new opportunities and hope.
• Attendees will have opportunities to donate to The Luke Cyr Foundation, with all proceeds directly supporting its mental health initiatives.
• Light refreshments will be available as guests network and connect throughout the evening.

The March to the Light Charity Gala is an opportunity to celebrate community, raise vital funds for mental health programs, and show support for those who have served. Anticipating a strong turnout of community leaders, philanthropists, and supporters, this will be a memorable evening for all involved.

Sponsorship and ticket information:

Tickets are $70 and can be purchased online via Eventbrite, https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/974298351597, until Oct. 30.

The Foundation is also actively seeking sponsors at various levels, from Platinum Sponsorship ($10,000+) to Community Partner ($500). For more information on sponsorship opportunities, please visit https://lukecyrfoundation.org/march-to-the-light-charity-gala-sponsorship-information.

About The Luke Cyr Foundation:

The Luke Cyr Foundation is dedicated to supporting veterans, first responders, and others suffering from PTSD by providing critical mental health resources and services. The Foundation partners with programs like The Caddie School for Soldiers and The Robbie Dean Centre, ensuring that those who have retreated into darkness have the opportunity to embrace the light.