Volunteers, schools keep veterans in care connected to community
The Capitalcare Kipnes Centre for Veterans is a long-term care centre in northwest Edmonton. In addition to general long-term care, we offer specialized dementia care and a day program for people living in the community.
On Remembrance Day and always we remember our veterans – those brave men and women who went to war for our country. Many of our residents served in WWII and Korea. Our more recent residents have served in international peacekeeping operations around the globe.
The Kipnes Centre is fortunate to be supported by service groups who act as a bridge between the military of the past and the present, and whose contributions enhance the quality of life of the people in our care.
Each year at this time, a group of residents takes part in the Veterans Night Dinner at the Edmonton Garrison, an all-ranks dinner attended by several hundred serving members and veterans. Attending the dinner brings back memories for our veterans, gives them the opportunity to mingle and share stories, as well as enjoy the musical entertainment.
This year, the residents attending the event received some extra special attention. Long-time Kipnes volunteer and (retired) Master Warrant Officer Mike Hogan was looking for way to ensure veterans are remembered, appreciated, and valued for their contributions.
Through a series of conversations with our veterans, MWO Hogan gathered details about their service histories and created a presentation about the six attending this year’s dinner, including Pete Dutka, who left home at age 16 to join the army, served with the 17th Field Regiment, Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery (RRCA), and took part in the liberation of France and Holland.
Baturyn School in northwest Edmonton also contacted us to provide service photos of our veterans for their “Hall of Heroes,” a display to teach younger generations about the everyday heroes living in our community.
Visiting with our residents is one way for people to volunteer at our centre. It is a gift that anyone can give, costs nothing but time, and benefits everyone.
Some of our volunteers are soldiers transitioning out of military life. These soldiers share a common bond with our veterans. Talk sometimes turns to battles fought, but most often consists of reflecting on time and travel overseas, and the opportunities afforded by life in the military.
The Capitalcare Kipnes Centre for Veterans appreciates and values all contri[butions of time and donations that are offered.
To volunteer and meet some of our veterans contact Bev Friske, Community Services Coordinator, at 780.442.5720 visit capitalcare.net.
To make a donation, contact the Capitalcare Foundation at 780.448.2413 or visit capitalcarefoundation.net.
Bev Friske is a Community Services Coordinator at The Capitalcare Kipnes Centre for Veterans