Penticton Legion gives back as national org marks 100 years

The Penticton branch has given over $47K out so far in 2026

Penticton Legion gives back as national org marks 100 years Published 11:55 am Tuesday, July 14, 2026 As the Royal Canadian Legion celebrates its 100th year, the Penticton branch is continuing to give back to the community. Established on July 17, 1926, the Canadian Legion of the British Empire Services League, as it was originally called, was incorporated as a veteran-based social and advocacy organization.

This Friday, July 17, Royal Canadian Legion Branch 40 in Penticton will mark the occasion with an open house from noon until 4 p.m., along with a live band, complimentary barbecue and an anniversary cake. The Royal Canadian Legion has grown over the years, and its many local branches have expanded support beyond veterans, including local youth and community organizations. Penticton’s branch will celebrate its own centennial next year in 2027, but as it approaches the 100th for the federal organization, it’s looking back on the support it gives the community.

So far, in 2026, more than $47,000 has been donated back through various programs and bursaries. That includes support for youth programs such as the 259 Penticton Air Cadets and 788 BCD Army Cadets, eight bursaries for post-secondary education, support for OSNS, children’s hospital, Fire Prevention Safety Society for Kids and local sports organizations. Other organizations supported include the Salvation Army food bank, the Penticton Soupateria, the South Okanagan Similkameen Brain Injury Society, the Penticton Safety Village and, for the first time this year, the South Okanagan Similkameen Wheelchair Society, whose work helps improve accessibility along sections of the Kettle Valley Rail Trail.

The Legion also continues its original purpose of supporting veterans and their families, whether through mobility support, emergency assistance, or financial aid to get necessary medical equipment. The funds for the organization don’t come just through the annual poppy campaign in November, although that is a major fundraiser. Proceeds from the food sales at the Legion, the events it holds and from its bar all go back into supporting the local community.

Membership isn’t necessary to eat or drink at the Legion, and being a veteran is not a requirement to join as a member either. Royal Canadian Legion Branch 40 in Penticton is open seven days a week, with hours depending on the day, as some events, like karaoke on Fridays and the open mic jam on Sundays, run late into the night.