Southern Alberta First Responders Unite for Mental Health Fundraiser

A coalition of first responders from southern Alberta gathered on March 15, 2025, to participate in a rowing competition aimed at raising funds and awareness for veteran and first responder mental health. The event, named “Pulling Together for Mental Health 2025,” took place at the Calgary Police Service Headquarters in Calgary, featuring 15 teams from various local organizations.

The competition ran for seven hours, during which participants competed to raise funds benefiting Wounded Warriors Canada, a national organization that provides critical services and programs for first responders, veterans, and their families. Rory Thompson, co-founder of the event, emphasized the organization’s impact. “Wounded Warriors are doing an amazing job across the country,” he stated, highlighting their extensive suite of programs.

Thompson’s co-founder Jade Wong echoed this sentiment, noting the alignment of values between their initiative and Wounded Warriors. “They support, essentially what we support,” Wong said, referring to the focus on mental health for those who serve. Last year’s event raised $85,000, which included funding for a fully-trained operational stress injury service dog for the Calgary Police Service.

For 2025, the fundraising goal was set at $75,000, particularly challenging given the current economic climate. Remarkably, just one day before the event, the teams had already surpassed that figure, reaching $82,000 in donations.

Despite the grueling nature of the rowing competition, the atmosphere was anything but dull. “The energy is electric,” Thompson remarked, explaining that teams from the Calgary EMS, Lethbridge Police, Tsuut’ina Nation Police, military veterans, and various corporate and community groups came together to compete. Each team was required to row for a minimum of five minutes, fostering a spirited and lively environment.

Wong stressed the importance of the event in addressing mental health challenges. “To really talk about mental health and say that it’s okay to not be okay,” she explained. The funds raised are directed toward essential resources for first responders and veterans who often encounter significant mental health challenges in their line of work.

The event not only serves as a fundraiser but also as a platform for dialogue surrounding mental health, reinforcing the message of support for those who dedicate their lives to serving the community. With each stroke of the oar, participants embodied the spirit of solidarity, making strides toward a cause that impacts many lives.

This initiative illustrates the commitment of southern Alberta’s first responders to support one another and raise awareness for critical mental health resources, ensuring that help is available for those who need it most.