Inaugural ball to raise money to support veterans’ and first responders’ mental and physical needs

To thank the everyday heroes who selflessly serve Canada, the Ottawa-based organization Health and Charity will be hosting its inaugural Hero’s Winter Snow-Ball on Feb. 16.

“They are the people who look after us day in and day out and make sure that we are safe in our hometowns.

“The purpose of this is to say thank you. Thank you for coming to our need when we’re in an emergency. We want to help you too,” said Holly Ormsby, Managing Vice President, Health and Charity.

All proceeds from the event will go towards programs and organizations solely dedicated to supporting veterans’ and first responders’ mental and physical needs. These organizations include The Perley and Rideau Veterans’ Health Centre, Women Warriors’ Healing Garden and H.E.L.P., the Hero’s Equine Learning Program.

The Perley and Rideau Veterans’ Health Centre is non-for-profit organization committed to providing quality care to seniors, with a unique focus geared towards veterans. Ormsby had the unique opportunity to visit the centre to get a feel for what services they provide.

“It’s incredible because every room is an incredibly unique and amazing story about what these people have gone through in their lives and they’re so excited to share their story. So, that was an incredible opportunity to meet some of them and talk to some of them,” recalled Ormsby.

The Women Warriors’ Healing Garden is a support group geared towards female veterans and first responders who have Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). The organization provides a safe haven for those women who have been abused in some way in their line of duty and as such do not feel comfortable joining mainstream support groups.

“This provides a safe space for women, and they can work in the garden or in the classes and have that network and support group without having to be concerned that anything is going to harm them there,” commented Ormsby.

The third organization that will be supported through the Ball is H.E.L.P. a retreat program for veterans and first responders to help them battle PTSD through the use of equine therapy.

“It helps overcome fear and develop self-confidence because you’re working with such power, but that power is not a threat,” said Ormsby.

During the event presentations and information tables will be featured regarding each of the organization so participants can learn more about the work they do in service of the veteran and first responder community.

At the Ball, guests will enjoy a four-course meal, have the opportunity to participate in a silent auction, and each will be given a gift, which will be at their table.

The Hero’s Winter Snow-Ball will be held on Feb. 16 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Centurion Event Centre in Ottawa, ON.

Tickets are $125 for single and $250 for pair.

To purchase tickets click here.