Helping Heroes Heal supports veterans
It’s not the golf. It’s not the food. It’s the camaraderie and companionship.
In a world where people are more digitally connected than ever, many veterans and service members are feeling more isolated and alone. That’s precisely why events like the Helping Heroes Heal Golf Tournament matter.
This year’s 8th annual tournament, held at Markham Greens Golf Club in York Region on Sept 22 brought together over 40 veterans, active Canadian Armed Forces members, caregivers, and supporters — all for a day filled with connection, fresh air, and yes, some golf.
The event is completely free for veterans and service members, including a plus-one. Golfers of all levels were welcome — from those who had never picked up a club, to scratch golfers, to those who came purely for the food and fellowship. But as organisers made clear, it’s not about the golf. It’s about getting people out, talking, laughing, and sharing stories.
Over eight different veteran-support organizations were on site, offering everything from mental health first aid and tandem parachuting experiences, to help accessing Veterans Affairs claims, service dogs, and support from the Last Post Fund and the Royal Canadian Legion.
The non-profit behind it all, Helping Heroes Heal, is in the process of applying for full charitable status with the Canada Revenue Agency. Yet even without it, 100 per cent of donations already go directly to programs and events that get veterans out of the house — whether it’s hockey games, golf tournaments, or help during the times when the Legion or VAC can’t step in.
Co-founders Matt Anderson, an Afghanistan veteran, and Chad McAuley, a firefighter, have spent the last eight years building Helping Heroes Heal from the ground up, committed to paying it forward every step of the way.
This year’s event was organized by Ryan Mitchell, a Canadian Forces veteran who served nearly 20 years and has been leading the tournament for the past five. Based in the GTA, Mitchell is passionate about giving back to his community.
“Markham Greens is unreal — what they do every year is incredible,” Mitchell said. “It’s a fun, welcoming event that brings people from all walks of life together. The air, the sunshine, the laughs — it’s the simple stuff that helps the most.”
Zac and Scott from Markham Greens agreed:
“We love hosting this group. It’s a true honour to play a small role in giving back to the men and women who serve our country.”
Anderson recalled how the tournament began during the height of COVID-19, when golf was one of the few activities still permitted. A longtime supporter and golf industry leader, Kevin Thistle stepped in to help. His support helped veterans get outside and reconnect — safely and within lockdown regulations.
Mitchell remembers meeting Kevin for the first time: “He literally took the glove off his hand and gave it to a veteran who didn’t have one. Another time, Matt said Kevin gave the cleats off his feet. That’s the kind of people behind this. It’s not just one person — it’s a whole team.”
“We don’t always realize the impact we’ve made,” Mitchell said. “It’s not about the golf, it’s the walking, the sunshine, the conversations. I’m not even that good at golf — but I love the community it builds.”
Helping Heroes Heal has also worked alongside the Mental Health Commission of Canada, providing Mental Health First Aid courses nationwide. Over the past five years, they’ve helped train hundreds, with more than 10 sessions run just this year.
Mitchell closed the event with a message for those who may be struggling: “If you need help, please reach out — to 311, to your local Legion, to us. Call a friend, talk to a family member. You’re not alone. We’re here. That’s the whole point of this event: to connect, to break bread — well, it was pizza this time — and to let people know we’ve got their back.”
If you or someone you know needs help navigating Veterans Affairs or accessing local support services, reach out — someone is always there to help.
For more information, visit HelpingHeroesHeal.ca.