Among the many inspiring volunteering stories, Olivier and his daughter Mahault’s journey stands out for its generosity and simplicity. For several years, this father-daughter duo has been dedicating their time to Little Brothers, forming meaningful bonds with the Great Friends they accompany. Their commitment even earned them a well-deserved nomination at our national awards ceremony. Even though they didn’t win, their story deserves to be told.
Volunteering as a Family: A Unique and Precious Experience
For Olivier, volunteering with his daughter Mahault was a natural decision. “As immigrants in Quebec, it’s important for us to build a connection with our host community, especially with the generations that came before us,” he explains. Their commitment goes beyond a simple act of kindness—it becomes a way to build relationships, share intergenerational moments, and break the isolation of older adults.
Since 2021, Olivier has been regularly accompanying two Great Friends as a driver for Little Brothers events. And since Christmas 2022, Mahault, at just six years old, has joined him in brightening the lives of isolated elders. Whether by handing out gifts at Les Grandes Fêtes, serving coffee and dessert, or visiting Mme Poitras, a Great Friend with whom they’ve built a special connection, Mahault brings a fresh and spontaneous touch that makes all the difference.
“Our Great Friends are used to interacting with adults, but seeing a child is a true balm for the heart. It brings back a sense of connection they may no longer have with their own grandchildren.”
Building Bonds Across Generations
Family volunteering has a profound impact. For the Great Friends, it’s a rare opportunity to spend time with a child, share stories, and feel surrounded by warmth. For Mahault, it’s an eye-opening experience that teaches her essential human values. And for Olivier, it’s a unique bonding moment with his daughter, rooted in kindness and meaningful connections.
“Mahault loves sharing little stories about her friends and school… and in return, our Great Friends tell her about their memories, travels, and past experiences. These are natural, enriching conversations, free of pretense.”
This father-daughter duo doesn’t plan to stop anytime soon. Their occasional volunteering will continue over the years, always with the same goal: to create connections and make a difference.
Getting Involved: A Simple and Rewarding Step
Olivier encourages other families to take the leap into volunteering. “All you need to do is fill out the form and start the adventure! The local teams are welcoming, and the training sessions are very enriching, helping us prepare for our role.”
At Little Brothers, we believe that every person has the power to change the life of an isolated elder—whether through a visit, a smile, or a heartfelt conversation. Olivier and Mahault’s story is a touching example of the magic that happens when you give your time.
Are you ready to start your own volunteering journey? Join us today and be part of this beautiful mission!
