Blacksmithing Event - 2026 - Caroline, AB

The application period for Soldier On members wishing to participate in the Alberta Blacksmithing Event on 6 or 8 Oct 26 is now open. The application deadline is 22 Sept 26 at 10 am.

AIM AND SCOPE OF EVENT: 

Soldier On in collaboration with a veteran owned/operated company (Forge Co) will host a two day introductory level artisan blacksmithing event.  During this event you will forge your own axe under the guidance of an experienced artisan blacksmith.   

The number of Soldier On participants is limited to 10.  

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: 
Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) from the Alberta geographical area who acquired a permanent physical or mental health illness or injury while enrolled as a member of the CAF; whether attributable or not to service.

Selected Serving members will require the approval of their Chain of Command to participate. 

DRAFT SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

1230hrs: Arrival at Canadian Veterans Services Society* (Caroline, AB) 
1245hrs: Intros1300hrs: Class begins
1630hrs: Class finished
1730hrs: Supper at the retreat

07 Oct 26
Blacksmithing all day.  All meals at the retreat

8 Oct 26
Would depart by lunch
The entire retreat reserved for Soldier On.  A single cabin will be assigned to you to stay overnight.  There will be one cabin on site with two bedrooms.   Night activities (weather dependent) include a camp fire and leisurely activities.  

* Canadian Veterans Services Society | CVSS Clearwater Retreat: https://cavss.ca/cvss-clearwater-retreat.
 

TRANSPORTATION & MEALS:

Travel assistance will be provided and coordinated by the Soldier On Regional Coordinator in conjunction with Soldier On Operations. The most economical means of transportation to and from events will be prioritized and discussed with members via the event OPI or delegate.   A DND van will take Edmonton geographical participants to and from the Edmonton Garrison to the Veterans retreat, Cold Lake and Wainwright participant's would drive their POMV to the Edmonton Garrison, Southern Alberta participants will make their own way to the CVSS retreat.  

Mental & Physical Requirements
Applicants must be able to tolerate 5 hours of light/moderate paced activities for 2 days in a row. Due to the busy activity schedule, applicants must have a limited requirement for rest throughout the day. To safely and enjoyably participate in this workshop, participants should have basic hand-eye coordination, the ability to follow instructions, and enough physical dexterity to handle tools and metal pieces. Adaptations can be made to accommodate specific needs. 
  
Participants will be joined with other ill/injured members and civilians and therefore should be able to function in a respectful social environment. Participants also acknowledge that there is no alcohol consumption allowed during the event activities.