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Royal Canadian Legion No. 1 Branch in Calgary Seeks Community Support for Renovations

Founded in 1917, the Royal Canadian Legion No. 1 branch in Calgary has proudly served veterans and the community for over a century. However, the historic building, completed in 1922, is now facing significant maintenance challenges. Current president Philip MacAulay has highlighted the urgent need for renovations to keep the facility functional.

“We are prioritizing major repairs on the west side of the building,” MacAulay stated. “The emergency repairs are estimated to cost around $30,000, with a complete roof replacement projected to reach between $250,000 and $270,000.”

The building’s aging roof has been a source of leaks, causing damage in various areas. In addition to roof repairs, the Legion is also focusing on improving heating and cooling systems and replacing windows, all of which come with steep price tags.

To finance these essential projects, the Legion hopes to secure funding through the City of Calgary’s heritage grant programs, which can allocate up to $1 million over a 15-year timeframe. The remainder of the funding will need to come from community fundraising efforts, including a spring dinner scheduled for April 13.

“Our membership alone is not enough to support our operations,” MacAulay explained. “Thus, we engage in numerous community events like Sled Island and wrestling shows.”

The Legion hosts a variety of events, from dart leagues to concerts, which help generate revenue. However, with monthly utility costs soaring into the thousands, fundraising remains critical. “Members typically come in to use our facilities for specific events,” added MacAulay. “They don’t typically come just to enjoy the Legion’s atmosphere.”

Longtime member Tom Butler, who has been part of the Legion since the 1970s, has witnessed firsthand the changes over the decades. “In the ’70s, the area was bustling; sometimes it was hard to even get in,” he reflected. “Now, with the aging of our members and shifts in participation, things have changed.”

For those wishing to support the Legion, tickets for the upcoming spring dinner are available at the branch office until April 10. Prices are set at $10 for members and $15 for non-members.

As the Royal Canadian Legion No. 1 branch faces these critical renovations, the call for community involvement has never been more essential to secure its future legacy.

Source
globalnews.ca