Empowering Hope: B.C. Paramedic Launches Fund to Aid Ukraine and Support Canadian Communities

Will Rogers, a paramedic from Cloverdale, is on a mission to support Ukraine by launching the Canadian Ukraine Economic Defence Fund.

His journey began with visits to Ukraine, where he volunteered and delivered essential medical supplies. Recently, he returned from a trip with the California-based group Frontline Medics and helped transport civilians and injured soldiers to hospitals.

During his last visit, he brought 235 tourniquets and raised $20,000 for charities. Will plans to return in March with another shipment of supplies, including 200 more tourniquets.

“I wanted to create something like a heritage fund, but focused on a country,” Will shared. He envisions placing money into two accounts—one for fund management and one designated for Ukraine’s needs.

He named this initiative the Canadian Ukraine Economic Defence Fund. While the idea was born in summer 2024, serious planning began last fall. The fund aims to raise money from donors across Canada, using investment profits to meet the needs of Ukraine. Will believes the fund not only supports Ukraine but also strengthens Canada’s economy by sourcing supplies locally.

“A portion of the funds will be used in Canada for Ukraine,” he noted. Donors can support the fund in two ways: with a $100 contribution to the admin fund or a $1,000 contribution to the operations fund.

Will mentioned, “Canada has around two million millionaires. If I can get just $4,000 from each, that could total $8 billion. The money will be invested, ensuring the fund remains intact.” Currently, the fund is in its early stages, but Will is optimistic that raising awareness will lead to more donations.

He sees the fund helping Ukraine now and benefiting Canada in the long run. Once the war is over, he hopes to use the earnings for local projects, such as education, infrastructure, First Nations initiatives, and more.

To spread the word about the fund, Will has created a website, printed promotional materials, and started visiting schools. His next steps include engaging with various organizations and government officials to boost donations.

In the short term, Will aims to gather $1 million for the admin fund, which requires 10,000 donations of $100, and $10 million for the operations fund, needing another 10,000 donations of $1,000 each. He believes that once these targets are met, the money can be invested for long-term impact, with a portion available for urgent needs in Ukraine each year.

If you’re curious to learn more about Will Rogers, his work in Ukraine, or how to contribute to the fund, you can find details on the official website at cuedf.ca.

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charity|Cloverdale|Ukraine|War in Ukraine