The Billy Bishop Legion in Vancouver’s Kitsilano area offers a unique blend of veterans enjoying pints in the pub and yoga enthusiasts rolling out their mats upstairs. One such enthusiast, Hannah, finds solace and connection through yoga at the Legion, despite not having served in the military herself. The Legion, traditionally a space for veterans, is making efforts to attract younger members like Hannah by offering free memberships in honor of its 100th anniversary.
As a hub for veteran support and community activities, Legions nationwide are evolving to welcome new faces and ideas while maintaining their core services. The Royal Canadian Legion has seen a significant rise in membership, surpassing 100,000 new members in 2026. Despite success stories, some branches have faced closures due to financial challenges.
One example of successful adaptation is the Bala Legion in Muskoka Lakes, Ontario, which almost faced closure a decade ago but transformed by offering affordable dinners, concerts, and opening its doors to all. The Legion is now planning further evolution by developing affordable housing units on its property to ensure sustainability. President Dennis Mills emphasizes the importance of attracting new members to keep the Legion thriving and serving the community.