Operation Freedom Paws Canada (OFPC) invites the public to attend An Evening with Lieutenant-General The Honourable Roméo Dallaire (Ret'd) on Wednesday, November 6 at 7:00 p.m. at the Sid Williams Theatre in Courtenay.
This special evening brings together community, compassion, and commitment to healing the invisible wounds of trauma. Proceeds support Operation Freedom Paws Canada, a registered charity that pairs veterans, first responders, and civilians living with PTSD and other psychological injuries with carefully selected rescue dogs. Participants train their own service dogs under professional guidance, forming powerful bonds that restore confidence, independence, and hope.
"Every partnership between a client and their dog is a story of renewal," says Barbara Ashmead, Executive Director of Operation Freedom Paws Canada. "This event celebrates the courage of those who serve and the compassion of those who support them."
Ashmead continues, "It also serves to honour a true Canadian hero; General Dellaire's message is the perfect one to bring to the community as we get ready to observe Remembrance Day." Lieutenant-General Dallaire's address will explore resilience, moral
courage, and the shared responsibility of communities to care for those impacted by trauma -- themes that mirror OFPC's mission. To help share his message to young people, OFPC is hosting a grade 12 class from Mark Isfeld Secondary School currently taking a course on genocide.
The evening will also include a book signing and opportunities for attendees to learn more about the organization's work..
Sponsors including Quantum Dental Group, The Nicklen Group, Mid Island Co-op, and other community partners have made this event possible.
About Operation Freedom Paws Canada
Operation Freedom Paws Canada empowers veterans, first responders, and other individuals with PTSD and related challenges by teaching them to train their own certified service dog. By saving both human and canine lives, OFPC builds trust, resilience, and renewed purpose for clients and rescue dogs alike.
A few tickets are still available at: sidwilliamstheatre.com/events/an-evening-with-lt-gen-ret-hon-romeo- dallaire/.