by Diana Festejo | Jul 19, 2022 | Community Updates
Quarantine Cookbook Fundraiser: Cooking for a Cause
During quarantine, many of us found comfort in cooking. From experimenting with new recipes to revisiting old favorites, the kitchen became a place of healing. Now, you can combine your love of cooking with giving back. Introducing the Quarantine Cookbook Fundraiser—a cookbook full of recipes that support a great cause.
What is the Quarantine Cookbook Fundraiser?
The Quarantine Cookbook Fundraiser is a collection of recipes and stories from people who spent their quarantine cooking at home. The cookbook includes a variety of recipes, from comforting classics to creative new dishes.
Here’s the best part: $5 from every book purchased will support Legacy Place Society, a nonprofit dedicated to helping first responders, veterans, and military personnel with mental health challenges.
Why Support the Quarantine Cookbook Fundraiser?
- Make a Difference: Every purchase helps Legacy Place Society provide mental health resources and transitional housing for first responders and military personnel in need.
- Delicious Recipes: Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, the recipes in this cookbook are simple and delicious. There’s something for everyone.
- A Personal Touch: Each recipe comes with a personal memory or story from the contributor, making this cookbook a meaningful keepsake.
- Great Gift Idea: The Quarantine Cookbook is a unique and thoughtful gift for anyone who loves cooking and supporting causes that matter.
How You Can Participate
- Buy the Cookbook: Purchase your copy today. The cookbook is available in both digital and printed formats.
- Support a Cause: With $5 from each book going directly to Legacy Place Society, your purchase will help provide crucial support to first responders and military personnel.
- Share the Fundraiser: Spread the word! Share the Quarantine Cookbook Fundraiser with friends and family. The more books sold, the greater the impact.
Join Us in Cooking for a Cause
The Quarantine Cookbook Fundraiser is about more than just food. It’s about supporting those who protect and serve our communities. Your purchase will help Legacy Place Society provide life-changing mental health services and transitional housing for first responders and military personnel.
Thank you for your support. Together, we can make a real difference. Happy cooking!
by Diana Festejo | May 7, 2022 | Education
Families Matter Research Group: Communicating About Trauma – A Special Event for PSP Families
Date & Time: May 12, 2022, 9:00 AM (11:00 AM EST)
Trauma is a difficult but important topic, especially for families of Public Safety Personnel (PSP). Recognizing the significance of this, the Families Matter Research Group recently launched an event that focused on one of the most crucial areas: communicating about trauma. We invite PSP families to join us for a special session with two expert therapists who specialize in trauma and its impact on individuals and their loved ones.
Expert Speakers on Trauma and Its Impact
We are honored to welcome two renowned specialists in the field of trauma:
- Dr. Tim Black, R. Psych., Associate Professor of Counselling Psychology at the University of Victoria and National Clinical Co-Advisor at Wounded Warriors Canada. Dr. Black will lead the discussion on understanding trauma—what it is and why it’s essential to address it.
- Dr. Rachel Dekel, Full Professor in the School of Social Work at Bar-Ilan University, Israel. Dr. Dekel will focus on how trauma can manifest in couples, providing valuable insights for families navigating these challenges together.
Following their presentations, there will be a moderated question-and-answer session. Participants will have the opportunity to submit questions both before and during the event, ensuring that everyone can engage in the conversation safely and anonymously.
Why You Should Attend
This event is designed for families of PSP, but it’s open to all who wish to learn more about trauma and its effects. Registration is required, and space is limited, so don’t miss out on this opportunity to gain essential knowledge and insights.
Key Takeaways:
- Understanding Trauma: Gain a deeper understanding of trauma’s effects on individuals and relationships.
- Support for Families: Learn how trauma can impact couples and families, and discover strategies to communicate effectively.
- Engagement with Experts: Benefit from the expertise of Dr. Tim Black and Dr. Rachel Dekel, who bring years of experience in the field of trauma therapy.
Following the event, attendees will be asked to complete a survey to help shape future PSP Families Network activities. This feedback will be invaluable in designing future events that best serve and support PSP families across Canada.
Register Today
Join us for this important conversation. Click here to register and be part of a growing network of PSP families who support each other through trauma and healing. Together, we can build a stronger, more informed community.
by Diana Festejo | May 7, 2022 | Community Updates, News & Events
Edmonton First Responder Rodeo puts First Responders back in the saddle.
First Responder Rodeo Details
The Edmonton First Responder Rodeo will be an action packed day of events featuring First Responders getting their butts kicked by everyday barn yard animals. This event was inspired by the long running Calgary Police Rodeo. Originally it was a way to show a different side of law enforcement while raising money for two fantastic causes.
Come join us for a fun day of family friendly first responder rodeo in support two great causes. One of the benefactors is Legacy Place Society an organization that supports Peace Officers, Fire Fighters, Emergency Medical Services, 911 Dispatchers & Military Families. Our second benefactor is the Zebra Centre which is an organization that specializes in working with children who are also dealing with some traumatic incidents in their world. The whole purpose of this event is for people to come out and see their First Responders competing in a fun atmosphere while still supporting others. Come on out and meet your First Responders as they compete against each other in a friendly arena instead of against the traumatic incidents they’re normally dispatched to.
This fun filled day starts with a sometimes emotional opening ceremony. We recognize those that came before us and open the event with the Cowboy’s Prayer. Once the formalities are complete, the action begins. Enjoy a full day of events for everyone big and small from tiny contestants competing in mutton busting to the bravest of our brave sitting at a table playing poker with a loose bull in the arena. With a kid’s area, food trucks, cold beverages and a barn dance to wrap up the day, you’ll certainly find this was worth your time in support of two great causes.
by Diana Festejo | May 5, 2022 | Community Updates, News & Events
Join the Dambusters Ride Fundraising: Supporting Veterans, First Responders, and Mental Health
Date: May 14, 2022
Location: Bomber Command Museum, Nanton, Alberta
Ride Distance: 50 miles (80.5 km)
On May 14th, I will take part in the Dambusters Ride Fundraising to raise funds for three amazing organizations: the Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund, the Bomber Command Museum, and Legacy Place Society. While riders worldwide will join, I’ll ride in Alberta, covering 50 miles from the Bomber Command Museum in Nanton to Chain Lakes and back. I’ll be accompanied by friends Daz Coen and James Kendal as we ride in support of those who served and still serve.
The event will feature a 617 Squadron exhibition at the museum. The iconic Lancaster Bomber will be on display, along with replicas of the famous bouncing bomb used during the Dambuster raids. The Lancaster Bomber will run twice: at 11 AM and 3 PM, after I return from completing the ride. We invite you to join us, learn about this historic squadron, and support these charities.
Why Support the Dambusters Ride?
The Dambusters Ride is more than just cycling. It honors those who fought for our freedom and helps those facing challenges today. Here’s how your donations make a difference:
1. Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund
This charity helps current and former RAF members and their families. They offer financial assistance and mental health support.
Donate here: [RAF Benevolent Fund](https://The Royal Air Force Benevolent Fund: The Dambusters Ride (enthuse.com))
2. Bomber Command Museum
This museum, located in Nanton, Alberta, preserves the legacy of WWII heroes. With over 130 Canadians serving in 617 Squadron, the museum has strong ties to both the British and Canadian forces.
Donate here: Bomber Command Museum
3. Legacy Place Society
Legacy Place Society provides support to first responders, military personnel, veterans, and their families. Their services, including crisis phone lines, emergency accommodations, and peer support, are crucial in supporting those who protect and serve.
Donate here: Legacy Place Society
About Me – Ian McCaughtrie
I served in the Royal Air Force from 1984 to 1991, including time with 617 Squadron Dambusters. Later, I joined the Greater Manchester Police and now serve as a Police Sergeant with the Calgary Police Service. I understand the struggles faced by those with PTSD and mental health challenges, which is why I’m riding to support these causes.
History of the Dambusters Ride
The Dambusters Ride honors 617 Squadron, known for their daring raid on the Ruhr Valley in 1943. Their bravery and courage inspire me as I take on this ride to honor their service.
Why Your Support Matters
Funds raised will go directly to the three charities, helping military members, first responders, and their families. I also serve as a Director at the Bomber Command Museum, where I help restore Bristol Hercules Engines and preserve aircraft, including one of the few running Lancaster Bombers in the world.
Legacy Place Society will be at the museum to raise awareness and accept donations for their work in supporting first responders, emergency personnel, and veterans.
Donate and Support
Your donations will have a meaningful impact on those who have given so much for our safety and freedom. If you can’t donate, please share this post to help spread awareness of these important causes.
DONATE NOW via link
by Diana Festejo | Apr 26, 2022 | Community Updates, Education
Johnson Management Consulting: Disability/Medical Tax Credit for RCMP, Military, and First Responders
Proud Sponsor of Legacy Place Society
At Johnson Management Consulting (JMC), we specialize in helping RCMP officers, military personnel, and first responders qualify for the disability/medical tax credit. We offer a comprehensive service to ensure you receive the maximum tax refunds possible for your injuries or chronic medical conditions. Here’s how we assist:
- Free Consultation to determine eligibility
- Assessment Report sent to your doctor, explaining why you qualify
- Supporting Documentation and medical history
- Payment for Medical Fees required for filling out forms
- Adjusting Multiple Tax Years on your personal income tax returns to recapture refunds owed
We’ve successfully helped active and non-active RCMP members reclaim this credit, especially due to the nature of their injuries or chronic medical conditions.
Why Choose the Disability/Medical Tax Credit?
While often called the disability tax credit, this credit should actually be referred to as a “medical tax credit” to avoid any negative connotations associated with disability. Since 2005, the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) has relaxed the qualifying criteria, allowing many people, including RCMP, military, and first responders, to qualify. Unfortunately, many individuals, including accountants and doctors, are unaware of the specific requirements. This is where we come in, offering expert guidance and assistance.
Common Qualifying Conditions:
We’ve helped RCMP officers and other service members qualify for the tax credit due to a variety of medical conditions, such as:
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Hearing loss/tinnitus (from exposure to firearms and sirens)
- Arthritis
- Chronic pain and musculoskeletal injuries
Other qualifying conditions include:
- ALS, Amputations, Angina
- Alzheimer’s Disease, Arthritis, Depression/Anxiety
- Chronic pain, Chronic Fatigue, Dementia
- Cancer, COPD, Diabetes
- Fibromyalgia, Knee/Hip replacements
- Macular Degeneration, MS, Parkinson’s Disease
- Sleep Apnea, Strokes, and Spinal Cord Injuries
How Much Can You Receive?
The maximum amount of tax credit we can recapture is ten years. If you have taxable income from a T4 or RCMP pension, you could potentially receive up to $16,000 in a lump sum tax-free.
Beyond this lump sum, once you qualify, you’ll receive an additional $1,850 per year on your annual tax return, increasing your refund every year.
No Age or Work Ability Restrictions
Age and the ability to work are not disqualifying factors for this tax credit. We have helped individuals as young as 12 (through a parent) and as old as 98. This refund is your own money coming back to you to help offset costs for medication, treatment, assistive devices, and therapies.
Important Note: Injury or medical condition does not have to be work-related to qualify.
Experience and Expertise
With a background in accounting and taxation, including experience with H&R Block and corporate forensic audits, I bring a wealth of knowledge to maximize your claims. I also work as a Rehabilitation Consultant for major insurance companies like ICBC, WorkSafe BC, and Manulife, which helps ensure a high success rate in claim acceptance.
Special Discounted Fees for RCMP and Military Personnel
We value the hard work and dedication of RCMP, military, and first responders. As a thank-you, we offer discounted fees:
- Civilian fees are 30% of the refund amount we secure.
- RCMP and Military fees are just 20%, potentially giving you an extra $2,000.
We also offer referral fees for recommending our services to others.
No Upfront Costs, No Risk
There are no upfront costs or risks involved. If we’re unable to secure a refund, you pay nothing. We only get paid when you receive a refund from Revenue Canada.
Contact Us Today
Though based in Kimberley, BC, I travel across different provinces and am available by phone and email. I enjoy meeting clients face-to-face when possible. There is no pressure—just expert assistance.
For a free consultation or to learn more about how we can help you, contact me directly:
