Blacksmithing for mental health

Forging Ahead Inc.

Forging Ahead Inc. is dedicated to helping veterans and first responders with operational stress injuries manage and cope with their emotions through the use of artistic blacksmithing and metalworking.

As a not-for-profit charity, our work helping people with mental health issues is supported by your generous donations.

We sincerely appreciate any donations of any amount. Every dollar counts. Thanks!

Building our dream

Improving veterans' mental health

We are proud to be the first registered charity to use blacksmithing as a form of art therapy for individuals with PTSD or OSI. Our approach is tailored to meet the individual needs of each participant, and our professional instructors are trained to provide support and guidance throughout the process.

1/5th

Canadian Veterans experience a diagnosed mental health disorder at some time during their lives– the most common are depression, PTSD and anxiety disorders.

24%

Veterans released from service between 1998 and 2007, reported they had a diagnosed mental health condition such as PTSD, depression or anxiety.

48% / 38%

Female / male veterans who became veterans since 2002 reported symptoms consistent with at least one anxiety disorder at some point between 2002 and 2018.

44%

Veterans who experienced symptoms consistent with a mental disorder were less likely to participate in the labour market.

Our Classes

basic blacksmithing

Basic Blacksmithing

Four hour intro to blacksmithing, where you will learn a series of key blacksmithing techniques and the foundations of practical skills for making decorative ironwork. This will be the prerequisite for any other classes.

basic garden hooks

Basic Garden Hooks Crafting

The purpose of this class is to build upon the foundational blacksmithing skills learned in the prerequisite basic blacksmithing class. By applying the techniques of drawing out, upsetting, forming, punching, twisting, splitting, and using various bending methods, students will create their own custom basic garden hooks.

fire poker

Fire Poker Crafting

The purpose of this class is to build upon the foundational blacksmithing skills learned in the prerequisite basic blacksmithing class. By applying the techniques of drawing out, upsetting, forming, punching, twisting, splitting, and forge welding, students will create their own custom fire poker.

camping outdoor drink holder

Outdoor Drink Holder Crafting

The purpose of this class is to build upon the foundational blacksmithing skills learned in the prerequisite basic blacksmithing class. By applying the techniques of drawing out, upsetting, forming, punching, twisting, splitting, and forge welding, students will create their own custom outdoor drink holder.

Learn more about our classes

Committed To Keep People Healthy & Safe

We believe that the combination of creativity, physical activity, and community support can make a significant impact on the mental health and well-being of our participants. Blacksmithing is a hands-on craft that requires focus, patience, and attention to detail, making it an ideal therapeutic medium. Participants are encouraged to express themselves through their creations, while also learning new skills and building confidence.
Our programs and workshops are designed to provide a safe and inclusive space for all individuals, regardless of their background or experience. We believe that everyone deserves a chance to heal and move forward, and we are committed to helping our participants achieve their goals.

About our classes

Each class is held once per week or by appointment. No one will be allowed to work in unsafe attire.

See what it's all about

Play Video about forging ahead

Our Sponsors

Memberships & Associations

Scroll to Top