Summer 2025 was a bright and joyful season. Thanks to your volunteer commitment, your donations, and the dedication of our teams across Quebec, each Great Friend experienced meaningful and heartfelt moments — an activity, a visit, a call… These tangible forms of presence brought connection, joy, and comfort.
Over 50 activities to break isolation
From Montreal to Saguenay, more than 50 summer events brought our Great Friends together: boat cruises, cultural outings, vintage car rides, BBQs, movie nights, sailing trips… Each gathering became an opportunity to forge bonds, spark smiles, and put our Great Friends at the heart of everything we do.
And for those who couldn’t travel, home visits, phone calls, and personalized deliveries brought the warmth of solidarity right to their doorstep.
Unforgettable picnics in Oka
A true summer highlight: the 26 picnics held at Domaine Juliette-Huot as part of our Vacation program. These days in the open air brought together 630 Great Friends, volunteers, and staff members in a spirit of joy, care, and gentleness.
On July 30, the Pointe-de-l’Île group enjoyed a memorable day.
“Oh, this place is beautiful! I was so happy when I received the invitation!” – Mrs Joly
ÀAt 95 years old, Mrs Quevillon expressed deep gratitude:
“I’m so thankful I could be here… You took care of me like family.”
These gatherings offered more than just a shared meal — they created a true sense of welcome, respect, and belonging.
A ride down memory lane
In Sherbrooke, a vintage car ride brought back cherished memories:
“I used to have a yellow Mustang! Today, I’m getting back in to relive that moment. Being part of Little Brothers brings me so much joy.” – Mrs Colette
Dreams come true on the water
On July 8, three Great Friends from Saguenay set sail thanks to our “Elder’s Dream” program — an emotional and unforgettable sailing trip:
“The last time I was on a boat, I was 25.” – Mr. Maltais
“It was my dream… and today, it came true.” – Mrs Boulianne
“I’ve always been afraid of the water. This is a first for me — at 98 years old.” – Mr. Gagnon
That day, on the calm waters of the fjord, memories were created, fears were conquered, and dreams were fulfilled.
Sweet gestures that touched the heart
In the Lower Laurentians, deliveries of fresh Quebec strawberries brought joy to many seniors in residences and long-term care homes.
“When I see you, the sun comes out.” – Mr. Chelner
“I’ve never received such a beautiful gift.” – Mrs Desjardins
These small, thoughtful gestures reminded everyone just how much they matter.
What’s next?
As summer 2025 comes to a close, the moments shared will continue to live on in the hearts of our Great Friends, our volunteers, and our teams. These collective experiences remind us how essential your role is: breaking isolation, building lasting relationships, and offering presence that truly transforms lives.
Starting next year, overnight summer stays (2 to 3 nights) will return to Domaine Juliette-Huot. A new season of meaningful activities, heartfelt conversations, and inspiring encounters is already in the works.
Will you be part of it?
Whether through a donation or by giving a bit of your time, you can help make next summer’s activities possible.
Your support is vital to gathering the resources needed so that each elder can experience unforgettable moments.
And who knows — you, too, might live one of those life-changing moments in summer 2026.
