July 2022 - Rick Pemkowski

Pemkowski understands first-hand the various stresses veterans might be dealing with and how they can benefit from social engagement because, as a retired member of the military, he is one of those people.

As a volunteer with the Operational Stress Injury Social Support (OSISS) network  based out of Winnipeg for the past 10 years, Pemkowski has organized paint nights, game nights, breakfast meetings and even fishing outings.

Being an avid game player himself and someone who paints miniatures, Pemkowski felt right at home organizing these events and was thrilled to realize others saw the benefits and were able to relax for a few hours with like-minded peers.

“I just want to help people,” said Pemkowski. “I was one of the peers for several years and saw a great benefit and then Fred [Connor] suggested I should volunteer. And when I felt that I was comfortable and in a good place I started volunteering and helping others.”

Pemkowski admitted the biggest compliment he received was when he visited the veterans office and the person realized who he was and said, “Oh, you’re Rick! I’ve heard some wonderful things about you from other veterans.”

Pemkowski has a fairly large stature and people just tend to gravitate towards him and Fred Connor, the member coordinator for OSSIS with CFB Shilo, said Pemkowski just has a natural way of connecting with people.

“The biggest thing with Rick is people feel heard,” said Connor. “They’re not dismissed. He actively listens to what’s going on and will do his best to provide information and help you on your journey. He just treats people with respect and I think that’s why people want to associate and work with Rick.”

Connor said that without Pemkowski he would be lost, as he makes his job a lot easier.