The Canadian Coast Guard Auxiliary Central & Arctic Region was incorporated in September 1978 under the sponsorship of the Federal Government, for the purpose of providing organized voluntary maritime search and rescue (SAR), and the promotion of safety afloat; in an Auxiliary support role to the Canadian Coast Guard.  Over the past 40 years, the CCGA has evolved into an effective non-profit organization that saves lives nationwide.

The CCGA-CA supports the Canadian Coast Guard with 926 volunteer members using 102 vessels.  The volunteers of Central & Arctic provide approximately 123,671 hours of service per year.

The organizational structure of Central & Arctic is testament to its grassroots strengths and diversity by providing SAR response, boating safety and prevention messages to the largest geographic area within the CCGA.