The grills were hot and the community spirit even hotter at today’s Taste of Summer Charity BBQ, hosted outside Wood Country in support of Estevan Legion Branch #60. With smoky burgers, sunshine, and plenty of smiling faces, the event raised $1,140.00, all in the name of giving back to local veterans and community organizations.
At the heart of the fundraiser is the Legion’s urgent roof replacement project, which comes with a steep price tag of $500,000. Legion President Frosty Forrest has been front and center in the effort, working with volunteers, businesses, and residents to secure the future of the beloved building.
“This BBQ helps contribute directly to the roof repairs,” said Frosty. “We’ve already been able to commit about $150,000, but we still have a long way to go. Every dollar raised today brings us closer.”
The Legion is more than just a building, it’s a hub of support for the community. Proceeds from other fundraisers like their annual truck raffle go toward helping a wide range of local and national causes.
“We support our veterans first and foremost, but also Creighton Lodge, the addiction center, long-term care, the hospital, fire services, STARS, the MRI project, you name it,” explained Frosty. “We also contribute to programs that help homeless veterans, provide service dogs, and assist local youth through the Cadet Corps.”
Beyond financial support, the Legion is also a place where the community gathers. With recent renovations that include handicap-accessible facilities, the building is used for everything from banquets to meetings and is available for public rental.
But keeping the doors open takes effort. “We hate the idea of borrowing as a nonprofit,” Frosty said. “That’s why events like this BBQ are so important. We’re not just asking for help, we’re putting in the work, too.”
As volunteers flipped burgers and served up lunch to a steady crowd, the sense of community was impossible to miss.
“You don’t have anything if you don’t have people,” said Frosty. “We may be a small team, but the ones we’ve got, they give it their all.”
The Estevan Legion continues to fundraise throughout the summer with events like the upcoming Steak Night and their truck raffle, and encourages the public to stop by, support, and learn more about their impact.
With a hot grill, a full plate, and a community full of heart, today’s BBQ was more than a fundraiser, it was a reminder of what Estevan does best. Show up for each other.