Gala Celebrates Expanding Commitment to Veterans
A Toronto Police program that connects military veterans to social supports to prevent suicide and homelessness celebrated its expansion to police services around the world at the Military Veterans Wellness Program Awards Gala.
"It was an honor to recognize the incredible efforts of so many dedicated individuals who have contributed to the success of the Military Veterans Wellness Program,” said MVWP Coordinator Aaron Dale. “Each award represents not just a commitment to supporting our veterans but also a shared belief in building a stronger and more compassionate community. Congratulations to all the recipients whose hard work and dedication have made a meaningful impact on the lives of veterans across Canada. Together, we are proving that real change is possible when we come together with purpose and compassion."
Toronto Police Service Chief Myron Demkiw acknowledged Constables Aaron Dale and Jeremy Burns and their entire team for developing the Military Veterans Wellness Program (MVWP) which helps officers connect veterans with various support services in the city.
“They saw an opportunity to improve the well-being of veterans by providing law enforcement agencies with a better understanding of military culture, de-escalation training and a streamlined referral process to national support,” he said at the MVWP Awards ceremony.
The Service collaborated with the Department of National Defence, the Canadian Armed Forces, Veterans Affairs Canada, the Royal Canadian Legion, Operational Stress Injury Social Support, Ontario Provincial Police, Royal Canadian Mounted Police and many others to develop the program that is now part of mandatory training for TPS members.
The program training is now available in both official languages and is being implemented by police services across the country as far as Australia and Ukraine.
Burns said the event celebrated the organizations and individuals who rallied behind the program.
“This event is really about the people who supported us. Aaron and I couldn’t have built this program alone and we are forever indebted to the people who have all helped us,” Burns said. “From our friends and family to our command team and all the way to the chief, Aaron and I have been assisted and supported all of the way through this process. Together as a team we’re showing veterans and the world that Nobody Fights Alone”
Demkiw said the program is impactful.
“I think of this man who was living in his van with his support dog,” he said. “He was between jobs and was having suicidal ideations. When officers transported him to the hospital, they learned that he was a veteran. So, they contacted the Toronto Police Service Military Veteran Coordinator who helped provide the right resources. By the end of the month, the veteran had returned to his old job. He had the proper medication and a permanent place to live.”
Dale and Burns come from a military background and through their mutual experiences and challenges adjusting to civilian life after their service, they recognized a pressing and unfilled need in the community.
“A career as a police officer and one in the military are two very different roles,” Demkiw said. “But both roles share a commitment to service and excellence. And both roles share the reality of witnessing violence and tragedy. I have known people who have struggled with post-traumatic stress and depression. I have lost friends to suicide. No one should face their pain alone. We need to be there for one another.”
The Chief stresses the importance of wellness in welcoming recruits.
“I meet with them to review the Chief’s Commitment to Wellbeing,” he said. “It is a pledge they make to commit to prioritizing their well-being and mental health. I always tell our recruits that caring for their mental health is just as critical as wearing a bulletproof vest or using the equipment they are provided. I want to make sure our members have the resources and the tools they need to stay healthy. This is a priority for me.”The Chief emphasized that the MVWP plays a critical role in the Service’s focus on wellness.“This program not only better equips our members to serve their communities, but it also supports our members who are Veterans,” he added. “So, it is a win-win for everyone. The Military Veterans Wellness Program has made a significant impact in addressing the needs of veterans to reduce instances of suicide and homelessness. And it continues to spread across the country, and internationally, to ensure all military veterans are given the collaborative support they deserve. It is truly an honour for the Toronto Police to step up and be a leader in this space.”
Demkiw was presented with a Ukrainian flag signed by active duty soldiers on the front line by Consul General of Ukraine Oleh Nikolenko to acknowledge the program’s expansion into the Ukraine next year.
