Monthly Parent Meetings
Run by the Squadron Sponsoring Committee (SSC)
When your youth joins 223 Red Lion Squadron, parents become part of the team too.
The Squadron Sponsoring Committee (SSC) exists to support the squadron and make sure cadets have access to a safe, well-resourced, and enriching program throughout the training year. Our Monthly Parent Meetings are led by the SSC and are where that support comes together. They are held on the first Thursday of each Month during our season.
Parents Mailing List:
To receive communication from parents in the SSC, sign up using the form below. Once you are verified, we will add you to this private mailing list.
The Squadron Sponsoring Committee (SSC) is a registered charity that supports 223 Red Lion Royal Canadian Air Cadet Squadron.
The Cadet Program is funded nationally through the Department of National Defence (DND). DND provides uniforms on loan, training materials, and paid officers to deliver the core training program.
The role of the SSC is to support the squadron where national funding ends, by helping to cover the local costs that allow the program to function smoothly and offer additional opportunities to cadets.
In simple terms, the SSC helps bridge the gap between the nationally funded program and the realities of running a local squadron.
What is the SSC?
What does the SSC do?
The SSC is responsible for managing and funding many important local needs, including:
Facility costs and contents insurance
Telephone, website, and basic administration
Trophies, medals, and awards
Support for optional activities such as band, drill team, and marksmanship
Extra equipment, supplies, and training aids
Costs related to special events, celebrations, and cadet recognition
The SSC also works closely with the Air Cadet League of Canada, BC Provincial Committee, which provides:
Maintenance and insurance for Air Cadet gliders and tow planes in BC
Volunteer liability insurance
Provincial administration and legal support
Oversight and guidance for Squadron Sponsoring Committees
How is the SSC organized?
The SSC is led by a 5-member Board of Directors, elected by cadet parents at the Annual General Meeting.
Current 2025-2026 SSC Executive:
Monthly Parent Meetings are how the SSC stays connected with families.
When and where
First Thursday of every month
September through June
6:30 - 8:30 P.M at G20, Vernon Military Camp
Meetings are held during parade night for convenience
Dates are always listed on the squadron calendar.
Monthly Parent Meetings
Who should attend?
All parents and guardians are welcome and encouraged to attend.
You do not need to:
Hold a position
Be on the Board
Volunteer for every event
Speak if you would rather listen
Whether you attend once a year or every month, your presence matters.
What happens at a meeting?
Meetings are informal and practical. Typical topics include:
Upcoming training activities and key dates
Fundraising plans and progress
How assessment and fundraising funds are being used
Volunteer needs such as drivers or event helpers
Questions from parents and open discussion
Meetings are designed to be respectful of your time and easy to follow, even if you are brand new.
Please join us at our next meeting:
Annual Assessment and Fundraising
While the Cadet Program itself is nationally funded, the Annual Assessment Fee and fundraising are essential to the squadron's local operations.
Each year, families are asked to:
Support periodic fundraising events (such as tag days or product fundraisers).
Pay the annual assessment fee each training year:
• 1st cadet: $150
• 2nd cadet: $140
• 3rd and additional cadets: $130From each fee, a portion goes to the BC Provincial Committee, and the remaining $100 stays with the SSC to help run the squadron.
Fundraising helps reduce the overall financial burden on families and allows the squadron to offer a higher level of activities throughout the year.
No cadet is ever excluded because a family cannot pay the full assessment. Parents are encouraged to speak confidentially with the SSC Chair or the Commanding Officer if assistance is needed.
Parent Volunteers and Screening
Many squadron activities depend on parent volunteers, including:
Driving cadets to activities
Supervising at public events and fundraisers
Supporting special events such as Annual Ceremonial Review (ACR)
Any parent or adult who has contact with cadets in a formal role must complete the Air Cadet League volunteer screening process.
Screening is not required to attend meetings or watch parade nights, only for roles involving direct responsibility for cadets.
Any questions? Contact The Security Screening Coordinator:
Sarah McDonnell at VICECHAIR@223REDLION.CA
OR simply fill out this quick form to request your screening:
How Parents Can Help
There is no single way to be involved. Parents help the squadron by:
Attending Monthly Parent Meetings
Supporting fundraising activities
Volunteering when available
Sharing professional skills or experience
Providing feedback and asking questions
Even small contributions of time and attention make a meaningful difference for the cadets.