“My Great Friends often ask if I get paid for what I do. It makes me smile,” says Marie-Josée, who has been volunteering with Little Brothers – Laurentians since 2020.
“My real pay is being with them.”
“I love older people. Their life stories fascinate me. They have so many beautiful tales to tell. And above all, I love seeing their eyes light up when I’m around.”
At 60, Marie-Josée had long dreamed of getting involved with Little Brothers. She had witnessed the loneliness that can affect older adults through her own mother’s experience — even though she was surrounded by loved ones near the end of her life.
“I remember thinking: if my mother, who was never completely alone, could feel that emptiness, what about those who truly have no one to rely on?”
It was in the midst of the pandemic that she finally took the leap. Soon after, she was matched with three Great Friends. From that moment on, visits became a regular part of her life, and her volunteer role grew more and more meaningful.
A Thousand Ways to Be Present
“Every encounter is unique and enriching,” says Marie-Josée, who adapts her level of presence to each person’s story and personality.
“I remember one Great Friend who spoke to no one but me… Then there are those who are shy and don’t talk much, but for whom my simple presence changes everything. And then there are those who love to chat. With them, we talk about life, exchange books, and sometimes go out together.”
Marie-Josée’s involvement goes beyond her visits. With contagious enthusiasm, she also takes part in picnics, summer stays in Oka, and the holiday gift-wrapping events organized by Little Brothers throughout the year.
“I have a beautiful life, and I’m grateful for it. In my own way, I try to brighten the lives of others.”
Aging at Home: A Privilege to Preserve
Helping those who can still live at home stay there as long as possible is another way to brighten lives, says Marie-Josée. Through her volunteer time, she truly feels she’s making a difference.
“Aging at home is a privilege not everyone has. Being a Great Friend also means acting as a sentinel — a safety net. You get to know their daily life, and by checking in regularly, you make sure everything’s going well.”
Though she’s not a social worker or a nurse, Marie-Josée is aware of the limits of her role. To guide her and answer her questions, she can always rely on the regional coordination team.
“As volunteers, we bring our life experience, but we don’t always have the right tools. At Little Brothers, there’s always someone on the other end of the line to help us navigate delicate situations. That’s really reassuring.”
“Will I Come Back to See You? Of Course I Will.”
Volunteering with Little Brothers means forming genuine, reciprocal bonds with the people you accompany.
“My Great Friends wait for my call. Sometimes, they’re afraid of being forgotten. I always reassure them: I’m here, and I’ll stay here.”
Through her involvement, Marie-Josée hopes above all to give back.
“You never know when you might need that kind of support yourself. So I invite anyone who has time to give it a try — go for it. A presence, a small gesture, costs nothing…”
“And for the heart, it gives back so much.”
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