The Lynn Valley Legion has caught a fresh wind and its energy is bringing people in and pouring out into the community.
Energetic evenings
Flying under the radar, the Royal Canadian Legion Lynn Valley Branch 114 is building momentum to be the liveliest night spot in Lynn Valley. With expanded entertainment programming and more kitchen hours, young and old coming together and sharing their free time in this community institution.
“There are lots of new faces,” said Joe Phillips, Legion president. “The crowd has changed a lot and we have almost doubled our membership.”
Popping into the Legion does not require a membership. Patrons are invited to stop by three or four times on a ‘temporary membership’ to make sure it’s worth the membership commitment before signing up – that said, memberships are half-price for the rest of the year, just $37.50 for new members.
“Folks come in and it’s comfortable. It’s like a rec room of yesteryear – with two big 85-inch televisions,” said Phillips. “Plus a 45-inch TV on the patio with three heaters. It’s a great place to be on a cool night. We have great music and beverages that, we think, are at a reasonable price.”
Leading the charge for new guests are trivia nights on Wednesdays. Teams test their knowledge with alternating weeks of music and general trivia. Thursday nights are a burger and beer special and live music – frequently Rufu Muse. Fridays bring the 50/50 and Legion classic Meat Draw. Saturdays are sometimes reserved for private events and, when open, the member’s favourite Meat Bingo takes centre stage. Since the season kicked off, Monday night has football on the big screens. Children are welcome each night until 8 pm.
Community givings
With roots dating back to 1925 the Royal Canadian Legion was founded to centralize support for WWI veterans. With a Lynn Valley presence since 1930, the Legion today contributes more than $150,000 dollars through grants and fundraising to veterans, first responders and local community groups. The Poppy Campaign alone received $76,000 in donations last year.
“We have a very active executive working for what’s best for the community and above all veterans [and first responders],” said Phillips. “Our goal is $100,000 and we won’t be able to do that without the community and members that volunteer at the poppy tagging platforms.”
It’s a simple process to give a couple of hours. Each of the eight or so locations across the District of North Vancouver has two-hour shifts. It’s a simple way to dip your toe into community service, said Phillips. This year’s campaign will kick off on October 27 and run through Nov. 11. To join the volunteers contact the legion or give Phillips a call at 604-315-1915 to take on a shift.
The public platform is just one aspect of the poppy campaign with others being more than 200 donation boxes throughout the District and a partnership with School District 44.
“We want everyone to get a poppy,” said Phillips. “The young elementary students each get a sticker and the older students a poppy. That is over 12,000 poppies for all the schools on the North Shore.”
Funds supporting veterans and first responders go to a variety of projects from upgrading equipment at nursing homes to offering retraining and skill upgrades for young veterans. Other fundraising and grants support Lynn Valley community groups. These essential funds are distributed to everyone from sports teams to school PACs to community groups like Girl Guides.
Looking for more?
There’s always something fun and exciting happening in Lynn Valley. Check out our Community Events Calendar or learn more about Local Activities, Mountain Biking or Hiking and Walking Trails.
