Step foot inside the Billy Bishop Legion located in Vancouver’s Kitsilano area on a usual Thursday, and you may encounter an unexpected sight. Beyond the veterans enjoying drinks in the English pub that doubles as the main lounge, upstairs, you will find vibrant yoga mats laid out next to aged military mementos.
“I find solace in stretching and belonging when I come here,” shared Hannah, a 37-year-old yoga enthusiast who prefers to go by her first name only as she prepared for a recent yoga session.
Across the nation, Legions, traditionally dominated by veterans, are striving to engage younger Canadians like Hannah through creative events, affordable dining options, and a sense of community that many seek. This year, the push is fueled by complimentary memberships for first-time joiners nationwide in honor of the Royal Canadian Legion’s centennial.
Volunteers at Legions stress that military background is not a prerequisite for participation.
“I may not have served, but my grandfather and uncle have had military service in Morocco,” Hannah disclosed, drawing a connection to her family members through the visual and oral history displayed at the Legion. “It feels like home to me.”
Supporting veterans and embracing fresh faces
Legions have traditionally served as support centers for veterans, hosting Remembrance Day ceremonies and various community activities. Nujma Bond, the national spokesperson for the Royal Canadian Legion, underlined that while this core function remains intact, many branches are evolving successfully.
“This is a transformative phase for the Legion, where our traditional services will be maintained while we anticipate growth,” Bond informed CBC News. “With a surge in new members, ideas, and energy, we are poised to expand and uphold our existing commitments.”
The Royal Canadian Legion has already welcomed over 100,000 new members in 2026, boosting total membership to over 300,000, as per its national headquarters.
Nevertheless, some Legions have recently closed their doors due to financial and operational challenges, such as Halifax and Edmonton branches. Dennis Mills, the president of the Bala Legion in Muskoka Lakes, Ontario, revealed the branch’s near-collapse a decade ago when membership dwindled to 29 individuals.
“Evolution has been our saving grace. Today, we offer affordable Friday dinners, budget-friendly concerts, and an inclusive environment,” Mills shared with CBC’s The Current.
The Bala Legion is now exploring further developments, aiming to introduce 110 affordable rental units on its property to ensure sustainability. Mills stressed the importance of attracting new members to maintain the Legion’s vitality in serving the community.
“We need your support to keep our community services thriving and vibrant,” Mills urged Canadians considering Legion membership.