Ian: Trillium Off-Road Recovery started back in 2019, initially as Orillia Off-Road Recovery along with a few other small groups, all managed by the same couple of people. The idea was simple: to create a group where local people could help each other out of a ditch or a snowbank—essentially, neighbors helping neighbors. As these groups started to grow, it became difficult to manage them all separately, so we decided to merge them into one larger group, which is now known as Trillium Off-Road Recovery.

Ian: We primarily operate through our Facebook group, which is open to anyone who wants to join. The process is straightforward: if someone gets stuck or their vehicle breaks down, they can go to our group and create a post. This post needs to include photos of the situation, the exact location, and contact information. Once a moderator approves the post, our members can then comment and offer help or make direct contact with the person in need.

Ian: Social media is the backbone of our operation. It’s the reason we’re able to function so effectively. It allows us to connect with a large number of people across Ontario who are willing to help each other out. We have strict rules for our members, and our moderators do an excellent job of keeping the group clean and banning those who don’t follow the rules. This keeps the environment positive and ensures that our community remains connected and supportive.

Ian: One story that really stands out is from last year when a Ford Bronco Sport had fallen off a bridge into about four to five feet of water. This recovery required a collaborative effort from several group members who went out to the site, got the Bronco out of the river, and brought it home. There was a lot of excitement around that recovery, and it took significant effort to moderate and keep the comments clean. It’s these kinds of stories that really highlight the community spirit within Trillium.

Ian: Trillium has grown exponentially, from just a few people to over 26,000 members across Ontario. We’ve expanded beyond just recoveries—we now organize trail rides, meetups, and even get invited to events and shows. It’s been amazing to see the group’s growth. The impact has been very positive; we’ve helped a lot of people. For example, during the big snowstorm last Christmas, we were inundated with posts requesting help, and our members stepped up in a big way. We’ve even been utilized by local law enforcement for assistance with recoveries and rescues. It’s really become one of those feel-good groups where people come together, learn from each other, and share information, especially about safe practices and where it’s legal to ride. We’re strong advocates for respecting private property, and we don’t allow posts from people who are trespassing without permission.

Ian: My top advice would be to always go prepared for the worst. This means bringing essentials like water, food, extra fuel, and a medical kit. Having good recovery gear is also crucial; we recommend equipment from our sponsor, Afraid Knot Ropes. It’s also beneficial to get some training—Get A Grip Off-Road Driving School offers excellent courses. And of course, know your vehicle and your own abilities. If you’re going to push your limits, make sure you do it with other people around who can help if something goes wrong.

Ian: Getting involved is easy—just join our Facebook group, which is where all the action happens. We also have a website and an Instagram account where people can follow our activities and stay updated on events and recoveries. We’re always welcoming new members who are eager to be part of a community that’s all about helping others and enjoying the off-road experience safely.