Legion members save on mortgages
Stephanie Burr
Staff writer
December 3, 2007
As an incentive to increase membership, the Royal Canadian Legion (RCL) has partnered with TD Bank to offer reduced mortgage rates for new members. By joining the legion for $45 a year, civilian and military personnel can receive a one per cent discount on their mortgage rates.
“We really would like to see new faces at the RCL and we’re hoping this new benefit will entice the younger generation to sign up,” says Dave Sinclair, British Columbia’s RCL command first vice-president.
The partnership is a pilot project for Vancouver Island, and if successful, will be broadened to include the rest of British Columbia and the Yukon Command.
New Legion members who sign up for a one through 10 year fixed rate mortgage with TD Bank will receive the discount off the posted rates.
“The mortgage rate discount is only one example of the many incentives the RCL offers its members,” says Sinclair.
In 2006, the British Columbia Automobile Association (BCAA) entered into partnership with the RCL to offer Legion members a number of benefits.
“The rewards offered by BCAA can help out with the whole household,” says Sinclair. Among the incentives, BCAA offers RCL members is a 25 per cent discount for those who upgrade their membership to premier level, a five per cent discount on home and fire insurance, free coverage for extra expenses on flight delays on BCAA’s travel insurance, and a waiver of the $18 enrolment fee for new BCAA memberships.
The RCL also offers a variety of programs to help both military personnel and civilians.
“We have a transition program to assist former CF and RCMP members in adjusting to life as civilians. We also have several avenues of help for those suffering from post traumatic stress disorder,” says Sinclair. “In addition to these and many other programs, the RCL provides sponsorship and support throughout the communities, and donates over $3 million to various charities in B.C. and the Yukon.”
Sinclair became involved with the RCL when he retired from the Canadian Forces and has been an active member for more than 10 years.
“I have seen the many ways in which the RCL helps families and communities, and I truly believe that the younger generations would greatly benefit by being part of the organization,” he says. “The financial advantages paired with the camaraderie between members and the support available to them, makes the RCL a great thing to be part of.”
For more information go to www.bcyuk.legion.ca.
