Building on tradition, Carson Duncan charts a new path for the Highland Creek Legion. He is planning to curate a variety of entertainment to perform at future events like the “Farewell to Summer” BBQ on September 13 and the kickoff to Legion Week on Sept. 21.
By Shelley Cooke
The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 258 in Highland Creek is proud to announce the election of Carson Duncan as its new Branch President.
Duncan brings renewed energy and vision to the role, while maintaining a strong commitment to the Legions’s traditions, remembrance and service. He has succeeded past president David Adamson, who has shared his wisdom and experiences to support Duncan in navigating Legion regulations.
When asked what first drew him to the Legion, Duncan cited the welcoming atmosphere and shared values among members: “It’s the ideology of what the Legion stands for. It’s a place of respect and remembrance. I also find that the people here are very respectful of one another, and I felt welcome the first day I arrived.”
Duncan’s decision to run for president was motivated by a desire to bring about meaningful change within the branch. The Legion has been driven by older people for generations and while the members are grateful for their leadership, there has been a growing call for fresh perspectives. “Many members felt that it needed some younger blood and that’s what inspired me to step into this role.”
Duncan’s top priorities for the Scarborough branch in the coming year include enhancing community engagement and inclusivity. He explained that creating an open and engaging environment is key to revitalizing the branch and fulfilling their mission of service.
Another goal is to generate more revenue through increased membership. It will not only strengthen their community presence but will also provide critical revenue that supports branch operations and veteran services. Increased revenue allows the Legion to contribute to Ontario Command whose programs and resources directly support veterans and their families.
Membership used to be limited to those who had served in Canada’s Armed Forces and Merchant Navy. However, categories of membership have since been created to include any Canadian citizen or citizen of an Allied nation who is 18 years or older. The fees are $65 for the first year, and $55 per year thereafter.
Duncan’s vision is to bring new energy to the Legion making it a welcoming hub not just for members but for the wider community. He is planning to curate a variety of entertainment to perform at future events like the “Farewell to Summer” BBQ on September 13, and National Legion Week. Duncan feels that a new vibe will make the Legion a place people want to visit, not just for tradition, but for good times and great company!
National Legion Week, which runs from September 21-27, is a national initiative that is designed to educate visitors on the good work their local branch does in their community. Duncan sees this as a great opportunity to showcase the Legions’s strengths and missions. Legion Week kicks off on September 21 with the Opening Ceremony at 11 a.m., followed by the Toronto Signals band and veteran guest speakers. Duncan has also arranged for The Broadway Belles, a tribute group that sings Broadway music, to perform at 2 p.m. “Legion Week is a chance to show the community what the Legion is all about,” he said.
Among the exciting events happening at the Legion every month are the weekly activities like BBQ & Suds on Wednesdays, Darts & Karaoke on Thursdays, Euchre & Bingo on Fridays, and a Meat Draw each Saturday. All events are open to the public. Even though these events bring a lot of fun and camaraderie to the Legion, Duncan emphasizes that maintaining the tradition of Remembrance Day and the Poppy campaign is the Legion’s most important role.
We wish Carson Duncan all the best in his new role as President. For more information on Legion events and membership visit their website at rcl258.com.