At CannaConnect, we believe in the power of community and the strength of our nation’s veterans. We are proud to unveil our new initiative, Proudly Veteran, a Veteran marketplace.
We wanted to shine a light on all of the incredible businesses owned and operated by our Canadian Veterans.
Veterans bring a unique set of skills and experiences to the table. Through their unwavering dedication, discipline, and determination, they have demonstrated their commitment to serving our country. Now, we want to support them in their transition to civilian life by offering them a platform to showcase their talents.
My Own Path, Health and Wellness Inc. located on Fall River NS sells dietary supplements including it's own dairy free creamer called Outdoor Energy Coffee Enhancer. It is a blend of highly bio-available marine collagen, and C8/C10 MCT oil powder. This product is a great addition to Coffee, tea, smoothies, shakes or baking. There are no flavors or additives and it's a great addition to a healthy lifestyle.
My Own Path also does one on one personal training in its 31 x 17 ft facility with programs tailored for each individual based on their fitness requirements.
The mission of My Own Path is to give people the skills and knowledge necessary to have a good quality of life through all ages. This is conducted in a judgment free environment where you are able to focus on bettering yourself.
My Own Path also gives back through the "Be The Tree" campaign. With this money trees are planted in memory of fallen service members with a certificate going to the families.
Battle Rattle is owned and operated by active members serving the Canadian Armed Forces. We were founded in 2016 and have continued to grow. We now have two locations to serve our customers as well as a strong online presence. We are located in Oromocto, NB and Edmonton, AB to conveniently serve both coasts of our country and everything in between. Our goal has always been to offer military gear at an affordable price but most importantly we also commit to only selling items we would trust to use ourselves. The military family is a very tight-knit community and that is something we want to demonstrate within our company. We try to employ veterans, active members as well as military spouses to allow our customers to feel that sense of community when they shop with us. We are very grateful for the years we have been in business. Life has thrown us many curve balls with postings and global pandemics and because of our amazing customers we continue to be here to serve them. We owe all our success, growth and most importantly our survival to the support we have received from everyone over the last 7 years.
After Darren Merritt’s 20-year military career ended with a medical release due to a diagnosis of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), he had no idea what to do with his life. As a radio operator for most of his military duty (including time in Afghanistan), he was accustomed to working in a modular unit with limited time outdoors, so Darren felt most comfortable in those early days at home in his garage. With the encouragement of his wife and professional counselling to help address his PTSD, Darren decided he would venture out to buy a boat. Going through the process of analyzing options, purchasing a boat, and after-purchase visits to the dealership, Darren was comfortable enough to ask for a job as a driver. Instead, he was offered a job in sales. “I’d say it was probably the best thing that happened because it got me out of the house. I had to go work boat shows and meet people. It really was the best thing that happened.” After 10 years of working for someone else, Darren and his wife (also ex-military), decided to start their own boat dealership.
Beautiful décor, quality personal use products, eco friendly, always handmade and unique. Building a brand that is synonymous with quality and beauty, while always ensuring our products are well within the reach of everyone.
Veterans and Everyday Heroes (V-EH!) performs acts of kindness for veterans and first responders in need of support, to achieve or maintain mental and physical wellness.
These are everyday heroes – correctional officers, peace/police officers, firefighters, paramedics, nurses, 9-1-1 operators and members of the military; those committed to serving their communities and Canadians. Too often there are times when these everyday heroes could use some extra kindness in their day, particularly in the face of a diagnosis of an Operational/ Occupational Stress Injury (OSI), post-traumatic stress disorder or other mental health challenges. Acting as a conduit, we deliver the collective kindness of OUR awesome community, to our heroes in need.
Coffee brings people together, and that’s exactly why we started Arrowhead Coffee Company. Our goal is to create a supportive community determined to help veterans and first responders thrive. We do it by roasting premium coffee, shipping it right to your door, and giving back to charities aligned with our goals.
Born and raised in Scotland, her family moved to Sudbury, Ontario. Shortly after graduating high school, and receiving her Canadian citizenship, Moira, always wanting to serve and give back to her country, entered the Canadian Military. After 36 years traveling many parts of the world with the Royal Canadian Air Force, a new passion for creating beautiful art emerged. Moira’s inspiration for her art comes from the necessity to be environmentally conscious while enjoying nature.
I started Jeff Alpaugh Custom, or JAC, with the conviction that the best clothes are conversation starters. When a friend, colleague or family member can't help but stop and ask "where did you get that?" you have the opportunity to tell a story, to bring a smile to their face, and your own. Maybe you answer directly, or maybe it's a jumping off point to talk about something that makes the clothes, and yourself, unique. Your personality, passion, the journey of your life - a distinctive garment is a signpost on the path you choose to carve through the world.
We offer a guided angling experiences, providing enjoyable, fun, relaxing "safe space" outdoor adventure. We acknowledge the ethical, moral and values associated with wildlife conservation, preservation and harvest. We pride ourselves on our integrity and professionalism while supporting those involved in our activities and outings.
I retired in Dec 2020. Feb 2021 I was diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder. I wanted to find a way to apply some of the training I had from military service. I turned to Guiding and Nuisance Species Management. Guiding allows me to work hands on, leading and mentoring folks on angling. From rod selection, bait/ lure selection, specific target species and then highlight the species once caught, then return it back to the water to thrive. The Nuisance Management allows me to stay current on Wildlife Policies, Firearms Training, Logistics and assisting the community, mostly rural, with species that may threaten businesses/ products.
VALOUR is a non-profit company owned and operated by serving and retired Law Enforcement and Veterans to support mental health programs that aid Veterans and First Responders who battle and conquer both visible and invisible wounds. This includes the systems that provide support and care for all the brave men and women including family and friends. As well as citizens who wish to show and provide support through the VALOUR name in support of PTSD and Mental Health.
I retired from the CAF after 28-plus years in February 2015. I served with The Royal Canadian Dragoons and overseas tours included both Bosnia and Afghanistan. Long story short, my wife had asked me in my months leading up to retirement about an interest I was considering to undertake during my first year of post-uniform and I mentioned that I was going to purchase and build an acoustic guitar kit from StewMac (a luthier supply company in the USA and they sell kits akin to a plastic model car kit but for guitars). She surprised me by gifting a guitar making course offered by a Master Luthier saying that, "if you are going to build one, might as well learn to do it right"...three days into the course I was hooked. Once we moved to New Brunswick in the Summer of 2015, I opened a small shop and I have not looked back as it has become a passion to build bespoke acoustic guitars.
Michael Terry is a 23-year veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces. He retired in 2018 due to complications arising from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and immediately began to feel the effects of depression, loneliness, isolation, as well as loss of identity and purpose.
To combat these side effects, Michael began to ride his motorcycle around Canada and to speak openly about his struggles living with PTSD and his challenges transitioning to civilian life. Not only has this forced him to face his own issues head-on, it has also allowed him to continue to serve his community, to challenge himself mentally and physically, to find new passion and purpose, and to begin to heal.
Sky Hound Ranch is a Veteran owned, Family Ranch in Lac Ste Anne County. Grass fed beef raised Naturally from our family to yours. The Ranch uses Regenerative Agriculture Practices. This means we do everything Naturally. Our Cattle are not given any artificial growth hormones or steroids and we limit the use of antibiotics to only when it is necessary. The Cattle are raised with low stress handling techniques. Everything possible is done from horseback and the corral and handling facility are designed to manage the cattle in the lowest stress way possible.
Helping Heroes Heal Foundation is a not-for-profit organization that unites + empowers our Nation's Heroes & Their Family & Friends. Our goal is to continue growing a peer support network for our military/First responder communities, through healthy sport and activities.
Provide Canadians an opportunity to participate in the act of remembrance to honour the sacrifices of our veterans. Every year, our volunteers help clean the grave markers of veterans. We provide the cleaning supplies, and you provide the muscle! This is an excellent opportunity to give back as a family and participate in our community, demonstrating we will never forget.
At its core Warrior Adventures Canada is a peer support organization. Using experienced military leaders with backgrounds in outdoor adventure, we take our participants on life-changing expeditions. Learning how to handle stressful situations from our nations best just makes sense.
After teaching our participants outdoor skills and mental performance strategies, we challenge them with a week long outdoor adventure. Guided by our experienced leaders the team will put themselves to the test. Following the Warrior Adventures ethos, and utilizing their new skills, they'll overcome challenges and complete an expedition out in the Canadian wilds.
Double Dagger Books is a Canadian veteran-owned military and security-focused publisher. Conflict and warfare have shaped human history since before we began to record it. The earliest stories that we know of, passed on as oral tradition, speak of war, and more importantly, the essential elements of the human condition that are revealed under its pressure. We are dedicated to publishing material that, while rooted in conflict, transcends the idea of “war” as merely a genre. Fiction, non-fiction, and stuff that defies categorization, we want to read it all. Because if you want peace, study war.
I want to thank you for taking the time to check out my website. After a prosperous 16 year career in the Canadian Armed Forces, I discovered a hidden passion for painting miniatures. Trained as a medic with the airborne, I was able to seamlessly transfer my steady hands and attention to detail to the world of painting miniatures. I increasingly work on developing my painting skills by attending mentoring lessons from other industry professionals, self-development as well as daily practice. I look forward to being part of your journey and helping to making your vision come true!
Corporal4Life is a Veteran owned apparel company that began as a way for serving and former serving CAF members to show their pride in service and pride in country. We quickly grew into a Canadian brand for all Canadians of all backgrounds. There is enough division out there, and we want to bring Canadians together with unique patriotic apparel that anyone can be proud to wear, while at the same time donating to causes that help Canadian Veterans and First Responders.
After 28 years in the CAF, Owl Co’s co owner Rob had a passion for working with wood and his hands. He needed to keep busy. His wife Sue, a social service worker, left her full - time career to focus on their joint love of building small wood decor. They quickly began having custom orders and branched off from there with the Owl Co. Business. Today they attend many markets in the community.
One Step Beyond is a media company that gives visual credibility to organizations and individuals by providing imagery for their online presence, advertising campaigns, and media needs.
One Step Beyond’s Lead Camera is Chris TT (Thombs) an Alberta-based commercial photographer, vetrepeneur, and third-generation storyteller who holds a Master of Photographic Arts.
Chris TT’s career began as a civilian photographer’s assistant. He later joined the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF). He continued to develop his photographic skills on a part-time basis as a secondary duty while he served. Chris TT captured many moments in the lives of everyday soldiers and populations affected by war throughout the world. On a lighter note, Chris TT was also the Lead Camera Flyer for the Canadian Forces Parachute Team, (The SkyHawks) for multiple tours. There he gained more experience while working internationally as a photographer and videographer creating content for media and public relation initiatives.
One Step Beyond provides their services as far north as the Dene Tha' Nation, as far south as California and from coast to coast.
One Step Beyond and Chris TT’s clients includes large clients like RBC, The Rec Room, Prince’s Trust, Alberta Government, and many more. The clients that Chris TT really enjoys working with is his fellow vetrepeneurs and medium sized businesses.
Pegasus Home Inspections is a Veteran owned and operated Home Inspection Company in Calgary, Alberta. Troi is a veteran with numerous tours and a background in communications. He is proud of his service as a Paratrooper, hence the name Pegasus. After leaving the Forces, Troi became an Advanced Care Paramedic in Alberta, for the last 22 years. As a Certified Professional Inspector, he provides comprehensive and detail oriented inspections for prospective homeowners.
In the midst of challenging times during my service in the First Battalion of the Royal Canadian Regiments, particularly during the Afghanistan conflict, I discovered the profound impact of resilience, discipline, and unwavering commitment on shaping a future. As a proud veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces, my journey has been a testament to the belief that every experience, no matter how arduous, can be a stepping stone toward positive change.
Having transitioned from the front lines to the world of numbers, my newfound passion for navigating the complexities of finance and strategy stems from a deep desire to continue serving, albeit in a different capacity. Becoming a Chartered Professional Accountant has allowed me to transform the skills forged in the crucible of conflict into tools for financial empowerment and stability.
Now, as the founder of my own public accounting practice, I am driven by a fervent commitment to support others on their unique journeys. My mission is to offer not just financial and tax expertise but a guiding light for those navigating the intricate landscape of business. The values instilled during my military service—integrity.
Hi we are Cassandra and Brad the founders of Trailer Park Fires. We are a young couple who loves to camp and consider it one of our hobbies. Funny story we actually met in the trailer park that we are currently in!
We believe camping is a lifestyle and the park is a community filled with great friends/family, drinks and a great campfire.
Working towards providing a brand where it is inclusive for everyone, we are two individuals who vary in size and we sometimes struggle to find clothes that fit !
With Brad being a military veteran one of our goals is to help our community learn that camping can provide a outlet for mental health and stress.
We also just started a new podcast called Trailer Park Fires where we talk about everything that would be discuss at a campfire. So come join in on the conversation!
Emily Zufelt, creator and host of the global mental health podcast, "What's Your Twenty?" is a passionate advocate who has dedicated her career to making a difference in the lives of others. Her journey began with a role at a rape crisis centre in the Public Education sector, where she discovered the power of spoken words to educate and inspire authentic change. During her time at the centre, Emily gained valuable insights into the impact of trauma on individuals and communities, developing a deep commitment to promoting healing and resilience.
Building on this experience, Emily went on to join a police service where she served as both a uniformed member and a civilian 911 emergency police dispatcher for over twenty years. Her voice became a familiar presence over the radio as she worked tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of the public and the officers in her care.
Today, with the podcast and as a Certified Trauma and Resiliency Life Coach, Emily has shifted her focus to mental health advocacy, drawing on her extensive knowledge of trauma and its effects to raise awareness about PTSI/PTSD and the importance of connection and post-traumatic growth. Through her work, she seeks to empower individuals who have experienced trauma, and to promote a greater understanding of the challenges they face.
Meet Roberto Vescio, A passionate entrepreneur with a mission to make a positive impact in the world of pets. Rob's unwavering commitment to duty and service has now transitioned into a new mission: improving the lives of pets and their owners across Canada. Driven by an unwavering love for animals, Rob is on a mission to revolutionize the pet food industry. His vision is simple yet powerful – to provide healthy, nutritious pet foods that doesn't break the bank. He understands that every pet deserves a balanced diet, and he's committed to making it accessible to all at an affordable cost without compromising your pets health. At NutriK9plus, we believe that a pet's health and well-being shouldn't come at an exorbitant cost. With Rob's leadership and dedication, we're proud to offer high-quality, affordable pet foods that promote vibrant, thriving pets.
Join us on this incredible journey as we strive to create a world where every pet enjoys the best nutrition possible.
NutriK9Plus – Where Pet Passion Meets Affordable Quality.
I was then drawn to bring this practice to other Veterans, in hopes they can also heal through yoga. As a trauma-informed Yoga Teacher, I am honoured to share my practice with our community, including Veterans who also live with PTS/D/I, as well as other survivors of Military Sexual Trauma.
I offer body positive, accessible, joyful movement Aqua, Studio, and Outdoor Yoga classes, taught through a trauma-informed lens, in a light-hearted, fun, approachable manner. I am a Certified Aqua Yoga Instructor, a Registered Yoga Teacher (CYA-RYT 250 & RYT-200), a Certified Accessible Yoga Teacher, and a Veterans Yoga Project, Warriors at Ease Level 1, Yogafit for Warriors®, and iRest® Yoga Nidra Level 1 Yoga Teacher.
A veteran of Canada’s military with 33 + years of service, I was diagnosed with PTSD in 2009, a diagnosis that was to radically change my life forever. Treatment started shortly after my diagnosis and lasted over 6 years, during which I rediscovered my inner self and who I am as a human being. Many things have changed in my life since then, all for the good and all have contributed to the peace I now feel with myself.
As my successful treatment evolved through the various stages of CBT, I became increasingly aware that I was learning a new sense of self, one that differed drastically from what I had known over the past 33 years. Everything I knew and held as part of the old me was being replaced by this new person who had drastically different views and interests, and as such, it became apparent to me that I needed a new hobby to challenge myself. After months of searching for something that matched my new life, and after meeting some amazing beekeepers in the process, I decided to take the plunge and procured my first hive. The rest is an amazing journey of discovery for me as I turned my new hobby into first a functional honeybee farm and now an apiary consulting company providing consulting services to the regions beekeepers as well as providing educational products and seminars on beekeeping.
Bees have become the true barometer of my inner self, and are quick to remind me of when I am troubled or at peace with myself. Loosely translated, if I am working with bees when something is troubling me, I am reminded of the fact through their stinging. Ironically enough, the stings have lessened in frequency and strength, and I consider the bees to be my true therapists as I continue to rediscover personality traits and qualities that were masked by my illness. The journey has been long, but rewarding, and I truly believe that given the opportunity, you can experience the same Zen-like experience that beekeeping has given me.
Upon returning from Afghanistan as part of Roto 5, I saw how many people that I had deployed with struggle with their mental health, using addictive substances and behaviour to cope, and living with the after effects of trauma. I was inspired to help them and returned to school to complete my Masters and became a Registered Clinical Counsellor. I found counselling jobs after graduation and it helped me feel like I had found something that gave me meaning after service. I had the privilege of supporting veterans directly when I worked at two of the in-patient treatment centres on the island. I have furthered my counselling skills through such qualifications as Somatic Experiencing, Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT for PTSD), Cognitive Behavioural Conjoint Therapy (CBCT for PTSD), Prolonged Exposure (PE), and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) which helped build my understanding on how to treat mental health, trauma, and addiction. I welcome veterans to my private practice and am an approved provider with Medavie Blue Cross and PCVRS and can direct bill with VAC approval for individuals, their families, and couples therapy.
