VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY: Treasurer for Forging Ahead Inc.

Forging Ahead Inc. - Canada's First Veteran-Founded Registered Charity

Forging Ahead Inc. is seeking a dedicated and experienced Volunteer Treasurer to join our Board of Directors. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute financial expertise to a growing nationally recognized charity that supports Canadian veterans and first responders through artistic blacksmithing as a form of therapy for PTSD and Operational Stress Injuries (OSI).

About Forging Ahead Inc.

Forging Ahead Inc. is Canada's first veteran-founded, veteran-led registered charity. Our mission is to support veterans and first responders facing PTSD and OSI through artistic blacksmithing - a powerful, hands-on approach to mental health and well-being.

We are currently leading the development of The Trail of Heroes, a 10-acre national landmark in partnership with the Town of Niverville, dedicated to honoring and supporting Canadian veterans and first responders.

In addition to this landmark project, Forging Ahead Inc. is in the grant application process with the University of Toronto for a national research initiative on the therapeutic effects of artistic blacksmithing for PTSD and OSI. The research will be supported by a documentary project (pending grant approval), in collaboration with local film students and a potential partnership with Jette Studios in Niverville. The documentary is planned for screening at film festivals and national research seminars to further raise awareness about this critical cause.

We are also pursuing funding for a Mobile Blacksmithing Workshop, which would allow us to bring our therapy-based blacksmithing program to military reserves, remote communities, and first responder units across Canada.

Volunteer Opportunity Details

Position:

Volunteer Treasurer

Description of Responsibilities:

✔ Maintain accurate financial records and oversee all transactions.
✔ Develop and monitor budgets in collaboration with the Board.
✔ Prepare financial statements and reports for board meetings and compliance purposes.
✔ Ensure compliance with Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) regulations and nonprofit best practices.
✔ Work with the Executive Director to develop financial strategies for upcoming projects.
✔ Assist in fundraising efforts and grant applications, including management of finances for:

• The Trail of Heroes (a 10-acre national landmark in Niverville)


• University of Toronto Research Study (grant application pending)


• CIMVHR Forum Presentation (grant application pending)


• Jette Studios Documentary Collaboration (pending)


• Mobile Blacksmithing Workshop (pending funding)

Skills & Qualifications:

✅ Experience in accounting, bookkeeping, or financial management.
✅ Knowledge of nonprofit financial compliance & reporting (CPA designation is an asset but not required).
✅ Strong attention to detail and financial planning skills.
✅ Familiarity with CRA regulations for charities or a willingness to learn.
✅ Ability to commit 5-10 hours per month, including attendance at Board meetings (virtually or in person).

Skills Gained & Related Careers:

✔ Financial Planning & Budgeting - Manage budgets, create reports, and oversee funding.
✔ Non-Profit Leadership & Governance - Gain experience serving on a Board of Directors.
✔ Networking & Community Engagement - Connect with key stakeholders in the veteran and first responder communities.
✔ Fundraising & Grant Management - Play a direct role in securing financial support for national initiatives.

Time Commitment:

⏳ Estimated 5-10 hours per month
Flexible schedule, with required attendance at Board meetings (virtual or in-person).

Location of Volunteer Opportunity:

- Forging Ahead Inc. is based in St. Adolphe, MB
- Board meetings are held virtually or in-person as needed.
- Future potential for working at Minto Armoury, Winnipeg, MB (pending funding for our Mobile Blacksmithing Workshop project).

How to Apply

If you are interested in volunteering as our Treasurer, please contact:

Cameron Bennett, Founder
Forging Ahead Inc. - St. Adolphe, MB
(204) 232-7764
info@forgingaheadinc.org
www.forgingaheadinc.org

We appreciate your support in helping us create a lasting legacy for Canadian veterans and first responders!

We are very flexible with most meeting being done online. we are a working board so most scheduling is very open and relaxed

• Online Application Form Below
• Email: cameron.bennett@forgingaheadinc.org (Include Opportunity ID)
• Phone: 204-232-7764