Wounded Warriors Weekend in Chilliwack a no-go

As we first reported yesterday, the Wounded Warriors Weekend that was scheduled to be happening in Chilliwack at the end of this month has been cancelled….the organization made it official this morning in a post on their Facebook page.  Founder Blake Emmons tells us the money they raised for the event, will be going back to those who donated.

“The people will be able to get refunds, yes.  And for those that needed a tax receipt for whatever their donation was, will be able to receive them.  Usually we issue those….probably in February is when they get it all together.”

Emmons says people who donated and want a refund should get in touch with local organizers.

The event is where those suffering from PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) would be able to get together and enjoy a weekend, all expenses paid. They were expecting around 250 participants, uniformed members from around the world, including vets, RCMP officers, and paramedics at a cost of around $2500 per person. The money was raised through various events, donations, and even a BC government grant of $25,000.

Chilliwack-Hope MLA Laurie Throness says he’s been assured that the province will get its money back.

“I’ve been in contact with everyone involved and they all tell me that the funds are in the bank, they’re secure, and they will be returned. So I don’t think the taxpayer is going to be out anything in this.”
Emmons claims the Wounded Warriors Weekend Foundation shares a registered charity # with an umbrella of organizations, including one in Alberta called the NASH Foundation.

Below is a copy of the post from the Wounded Warriors Foundation Facebook Page that went up this morning:

“It is with heavy heart that I regret to inform everyone that we were met with some challenges in Chilliwack that have proven to be insurmountable. I have spent the last two days teleconferencing with my Board of Directors. We took into consideration all potential avenues and have made the incredibly difficult decision to cancel our Wounded Warriors Weekend event in Chilliwack. We carefully considered the integrity of all concerned when we made our decision and are deeply appreciative of all those who have supported our previous Wounded Warriors Weekends. Unfortunately, we were unable to raise sufficient funds this year to present our Wounded Warriors Weekend in the same manner as in previous years. Please stay connected with us as we will continue to press forward on a future event. Next years plans have already been made to return to Nipawin, the birthplace of Wounded Warriors Weekend.