Where Creativity, Friendship, and Community Service Come Together.
KSM is a vibrant group of hobbyists passionate about scale modelling—and even more passionate about giving back. From monthly meetings and skill-sharing to supporting Veterans through Operation VetBuild, KSM is proud to make a difference through the joy of building.
KSM is honoured to stand behind Don Duncan and his incredible commitment to helping veterans through Operation VetBuild—a peer-to-peer support program run by Veterans, for Veterans.
For many living with PTSD, finding a calm, steady, and supportive space is a lifeline. That’s where scale modelling comes in. ✂️🧠
Scale modelling isn’t just a pastime—it’s a powerful therapeutic tool. The hands-on focus engages fine motor skills while the planning, problem-solving, and creativity activate deeper neurological pathways. This combination reduces stress, improves cognitive regulation, and helps veterans ground themselves. And when it happens among peers who understand the journey, the results are even stronger.
As part of this mission, Don serves as the group’s Topic Specialist, supporting veterans directly with their builds.
At the start of every VetBuild meeting, Don will run a 20-minute “How-To” session, covering practical skills to help members grow their confidence at the bench. Topics will rotate monthly and may include:
• Cutting and cleaning parts
• Airbrushing basics and control
• Figure painting
• Weathering techniques
• Model show-and-tell and problem-solving
• A new modelling skill every month
This consistent, guided learning structure helps veterans progress comfortably, learn at their own pace, and discover new aspects of the hobby—together.
That’s exactly what Operation VetBuild offers:
✔️ A supportive, social environment
✔️ A hobby proven to aid mental wellness
✔️ Peer bonding, comradeship, and purpose
✔️ A completely FREE program for veterans
⭐ Donation Request – Help Us Help More Veterans! ⭐
If you’d like to support the program, please consider bringing:
• An easy-to-build donor kit from your stash — armour, aircraft, or cars are ideal
• Surplus paintbrushes, paints, plastic cements, or brands you no longer use
Every donation helps a veteran start a project, build confidence, and join the community.
Operation VetBuild – Program Details
Hosted monthly in Legion branches across Canada, this program helps veterans improve their mental health through model building in a welcoming group setting.
📍 Royal Canadian Legion Branch #385
105 Industrial Parkway N, Aurora, ON L4G 4C4
🗓 Last Saturday of every month
⏰ 9:00 AM – Noon
Open to:
🇨🇦 CAF Veterans
🤝 Allied Nation Veterans
👮♂️ RCMP Veterans
👪 Immediate family members
(No Legion membership required. No experience necessary. All materials supplied.)
To reserve your spot, please contact:
📧 Chris Duncan – veteranservices@auroralegion.ca