In early February, when I boarded a plane from the U.K. to start my first day at True Patriot Love, I knew I would be joining a pioneering foundation that has done a great deal to help military and Veteran families in need over the last decade. Now, almost three months in, and having met with many of our incredible donors, partners and beneficiaries, I've seen first-hand how true this is. I'm so grateful to our community of supporters who stand with us and our important mission.

I feel particularly privileged to have had the chance to witness one of our organization's milestones - our first-ever women's expedition. The True Patriot Love Women's Expedition presented by Mackenzie Investments took place in Baffin Island, Nunavut from April 1 to 14. To date, this program has raised more than $800,000 for military and Veteran families in need.

I had the great pleasure of greeting the team in Pangnirtung following their journey. Although the trek was difficult, with the team experiencing the highs and lows of the Arctic landscape and weather conditions, their energy and excitement were palpable. They shared incredible stories of their time away and the challenges of the journey, which mirror those that women face in both the military and corporate sectors. There's no doubt that the experience was life-changing for both the military members who are currently serving or transitioning to civilian life, and the business participants who gained great perspective from the women of the Canadian Armed Forces. This newsletter has a special focus on the expedition, so read on to learn more about this remarkable feat.

The experience and learning from the participants also gave me the opportunity to reflect more on True Patriot Love’s mission. A recent report issued by Veterans Affairs Canada stated that more than 6,700 military members who served in Afghanistan received disability benefits for mental-health conditions in March 2018, which is an increase of almost 3,200, or nearly 80%, from 2014. The report also revealed that post traumatic stress was the top medical diagnosis for those applying for assistance. This is a stark reminder that despite being five years past Afghanistan, there is still so much to do. Our work is more critical than ever.

With this in mind, I have tremendous gratitude for our many program partners that do so much to serve the military community. Last week, I travelled to Western Canada and met with the Veterans Transition Network (VTN), one of our key partners. Grown from the University of British Columbia, VTN delivered the first empirically supported group treatment mental health program for ex-military men and women. For many Veterans, it is the only non-emergency care treatment they have received since their discharge, even if their discharge was 10-20 years ago. Thanks to our generous donors, True Patriot Love has invested over $1.2 million in VTN over the past six years. This has enabled the organization to grow across the country, train clinicians, allow Veterans to participate in the program, offer programming and course materials in French, and become recognized as a service provider for Veterans Affairs Canada. Programs like VTN are truly providing crucial help, which we know is so important.

My sincere thank you, once again, for your ongoing support and for standing with us as we continue to serve those who have sacrificed so much to protect the rights and freedoms of this great nation.

Kind regards,

Libby McCready, Mackenzie Investments

When Libby first learned about the Baffin Island expedition through Mackenzie Investments, she knew right away that she was up for the challenge. "The idea of an all women’s expedition, the opportunity to visit Baffin Island, and that it sounded relatively flat and would be done on snowshoes was all it took to say yes," she said.

With the expedition now complete, Libby is still reflecting on the remarkable journey. "The relationships we built with each other and with our Pangnirtung hosts will last a lifetime. Extreme conditions, magnificent scenery, challenging situations... I know for me that is a unique shared experience among us. The couple of days spent in Pangnirtung as well was an experience I will never forget."

The journey also strengthened her support of the military community. "We have amazing people who serve this country, courageously and selflessly. They deserve so much more credit, recognition and support for their service to us."

Lieutenant Commander Kathryn Logan, CD

Lieutenant Commander Kathryn Logan joined the Baffin Island expedition "to help spread awareness for the challenges military members and families face, network with inspiring women from across Canada, and explore a part of Canada that few people are lucky enough to experience."

Once on the expedition, the surrounding scenery left a lasting impression. "Witnessing the beauty and remoteness of the North was incredibly unique and memorable. I will treasure the memories of our team making our way over the Akshayuk Pass dearly," she said. The experience also helped prepare her for what's next. "I feel that this expedition has helped me better prepare for my transition to civilian life. Meeting so many talented women has inspired me to aim high for my next career move, and I deeply appreciate the support and mentorship that my expedition sisters have provided. I hope this will continue in the future!"

Julie Cowan, Scotiabank

The 2018 Invictus Games in Toronto was the inspiration for Julie joining the Baffin Island expedition. "The expedition was a hands-on way to give back to those who so selflessly serve our country. It was also an outstanding opportunity to explore the rugged beauty of Canada and to indulge my sense of adventure," she said.

As the expedition Co-Chair, Julie provided some great insight into the experience. "The TPL Baffin Island Expedition provided an extraordinary opportunity to disconnect in this hyper-connected world. Civilians, Veterans and soldiers alike were reminded of the isolation that exists in our society, despite technological advances - from the Northern communities we visited to the challenges our Veterans face when they transition to civilian life. Paradoxically, the remoteness of Baffin Island itself enabled us to build deep, meaningful relationships that will last a lifetime. I look forward to continuing the journey with this outstanding group of women for years to come!"

The expedition also provided her with a unique perspective on the military community. "I learned first-hand that the need to serve those who serve our country has never been more acute. Building on the theme of isolation – our service men and women often face incredible isolation when they return from abroad and when they leave the military."

The 9th Annual Invitational for Heroes Golf Tournament, Presented by RBC Insurance – Monday, June 3, 2019

Golf season is finally here! Don’t miss out on this incredible event in support of Canada’s military and Veteran communities that will include great entertainment, an auction and a chance to win great prizes.

The True Patriot Love 11th Annual Tribute Gala – Thursday, November 7, 2019

Join us at Canada’s largest tribute event in support of military members, Veterans and their families, which brings together influential business and community leaders, distinguished military representatives and dignitaries for an evening of celebration.