Overview
The RCMP Veterans’ Association (RCMPVA) Post Discharge Transition Program provides an external, trusted point of contact for RCMP employees seeking information, resources, and coordinated support before, during, and after discharge. The program is designed to ensure a respectful and seamless transition to post-service life.
Developed to address long-standing gaps in the transition process, the program provides continuity of support at a critical stage—particularly when members are no longer connected to internal RCMP systems. It helps bridge the transition from service to civilian life by ensuring members are not left to navigate complex processes alone.
Transitioning from service is not only an administrative process, but also a personal one. Members may experience a range of emotions, including uncertainty, loss of identity, and both excitement and apprehension about what comes next. This program offers guidance and support to help individuals navigate both the practical and personal aspects of this transition.
At its core, the program simplifies complex processes, connects members to relevant resources, and provides a single, consistent point of contact—including access to a Post Discharge Transition Coordinator, along with volunteer advisors who can liaise with the RCMP and partner organizations such as the National Police Federation (NPF) and Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC).
Who Can Request Assistance
The Post Discharge Transition Program is available to:
- Current and former RCMP employees, including Regular Members, Civilian Members, and Public Service Employees
- Individuals who are preparing to discharge, currently transitioning, or who have already left the RCMP
- Family members seeking support or information on behalf of an RCMP member
There is no specific timeframe to access support. Assistance is available at any stage—before, during, or after discharge.
Services Provided
The Post Discharge Transition Program offers practical, member-focused support, including:
- A single point of contact for accessing information, resources, and supports during and after discharge
- Guidance on RCMP discharge and retirement processes
- Assistance in understanding benefits and programs, including Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC), the Public Service Health Care Plan (PSHCP), and the Pensioners’ Dental Services Plan (PDSP)
- Referrals and liaison support with external partners, including the National Police Federation (NPF), Support for Operational Stress Injury (SOSI), and other service providers
- Connection to a Post Discharge Transition Coordinator and volunteer advisors, fostering a peer-based network of support
- Access to mental health and wellness resources
- Peer support connections with fellow RCMP veterans
- Individualized, one-on-one support tailored to the physical, psychological, and social well-being of former RCMP employees
- Ongoing support, as needed, before, during, and after the transition from service
The program complements existing RCMPVA services, including support related to career transition and employment opportunities.
Please note: The Post Discharge Transition Coordinator does not provide counselling services, financial planning, or legal advice.
How to Access Support
Assistance may be requested by contacting the Post Discharge Transition Coordinator:
Contact: Doug Wasylenki, Post Discharge Transition Coordinator
Email: VATransitionCoordinator@rcmpva.org
Email is the primary method of contact. Phone and virtual meetings (via Microsoft Teams) are also available, as needed.
Following initial contact, a response can be expected within 1–2 business days.
When reaching out, please include:
- Your name
- A valid email address
- A phone number
- A brief description of the assistance you are seeking
Please do not include sensitive or confidential personal information in your initial message.
About the Post Discharge Transition Coordinator
The Post Discharge Transition Coordinator serves as an independent, trusted point of contact for RCMP members preparing to discharge or navigating post-service life. As a retired RCMP member, the Coordinator brings lived experience and a strong understanding of both RCMP culture and external support systems.
Support is personalized and guided by each member’s needs. Individuals may reach out directly or be referred through the RCMP, the RCMP Veterans’ Association, or partner organizations. The focus is on providing a supportive, respectful, and non-judgmental environment, while helping members understand their options and navigate available resources.
The Coordinator works collaboratively with organizations such as the RCMP, the National Police Federation (NPF), and Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC). The role is not to replace these services, but to help members connect with the right supports and navigate systems with confidence.
All interactions are handled with discretion. Personal information is collected only as necessary to provide support and services.
Meet our Post Discharge Transition Coordinator
Doug (Wasy) Wasylenki retired from the RCMP in November 2020 at the rank of Staff Sergeant, following a 35-year career entirely in Alberta (K Division). He spent 13 years in general duty policing and 16 years in traffic services. In the final six years of his career, he served as the Peer Support Coordinator for K Division, focusing on the well-being of RCMP members.
From March 2021 to December 2023, Doug worked with the National Police Federation (NPF) as a Special Advisor, providing expertise and guidance in support of the Member Services Centre. In this role, he contributed to strengthening the Federation’s ability to provide effective representation and support to RCMP members across Canada.
He has been actively involved in supporting members through the transition to retirement, including helping to advance practical tools and resources to guide members through the process. His work has focused on addressing common questions and challenges, and on making the transition experience more accessible and less stressful.
In his current role, he serves as a dedicated RCMPVA point of contact—independent of the RCMP—providing guidance, support, and continuity for members navigating their transition. He works closely with the RCMP and external partners, including the National Police Federation (NPF) and Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC), to help ensure a smooth and well-supported transition to post-service life.