Shining a light on the people who make waves in their community

At The Dementia Society, our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. Today, we’re thrilled to spotlight one of our incredible volunteers, Chantal, who has made a meaningful impact through her work with Café Marguerite.

Why She Chose to Volunteer

When asked what inspired her to begin volunteering, Chantal shared that she wanted to help reduce the loneliness and isolation that can arise after someone is diagnosed with dementia. Her motivation came from her personal experience as a caregiver for her mother and as well as her newly retired status.

She saw first-hand the need for meaningful social programming, especially programming offered in a person’s first language. Volunteering offered her the chance to give back to her community while finding renewed purpose at her own pace.

Making a Difference Through Café Marguerite

Chantal was invited to help develop Café Marguerite, a program created for and by Francophones. Café Marguerite offers people living with dementia the opportunity to come together weekly to socialize, play games, and connect in a safe, welcoming space.

“I feel very privileged that this group trusts me to be vulnerable and that they feel safe to share their life experiences with me. The attendees have lived full lives, they’ve travelled, they’ve had fascinating careers, and I learn a great deal from them. We laugh and have so much fun together.”

Chantal spoke about the importance of offering the program in French, allowing attendees to participate fully in their first language:

“Café Marguerite is very special. It’s for French-speaking people, and being Francophone myself, that adds another layer of connection. I think the dynamic would be very different if they didn’t have the opportunity to participate in their first language.”

The ability for attendees, volunteers, and staff to participate in French is essential to fostering a welcoming, inclusive environment and truly meeting the needs of the

community. Chantal’s role in building this program has made Café Marguerite a successful and supportive space for all involved.

Je voulais seulement partager ce message de reconnaissance pour ton appui et ton aide depuis que tu fais partie de l’équipe du programme Café Marguerite. Ton sourire et ta présence sont appréciés de tous!

Ton approche douce, calme et compréhensive aide notre groupe à se sentir à l’aise! Je peux toujours compter sur toi lorsque nous avons à planifier des activités intéressantes comme le “jeu à Chantal”! Merci pour ta générosité sincère, cela signifie beaucoup pour moi. Bravo à toi, et un million de mercis. — Monique Thibault, Dementia Care Coach and Facilitator of Café Marguerite

Why Volunteering Matters

For Chantal, volunteering is about so much more than just giving her time—it’s about connection, community, and purpose.

“Everything you put in, you get threefold out of it. It’s exponential.”

As a retiree, Chantal emphasizes the important space volunteering fills in her life:

“As a retiree, it fills a certain part of your life that I think is important. It’s different from travel, exercise and other social activities – volunteering provides a sense of purpose that is meaningful and brings me great joy.”

Thank You, Chantal

Chantal’s story is a powerful reminder that volunteers don’t just support programs—they build relationships, strengthen communities, and inspire those around them.

We’re deeply grateful for Chantal and the heart she brings to Café Marguerite each week.