Volunteer Impact

Singing a Different Tune

In 2024, Perley Health's volunteer program achieved a new milestone: 431 people volunteered regularly to support Seniors and Veterans, the largest number in history. As the number of volunteers increases, so too does the number of residents able to participate in activities and events. As a result, both groups experience improvements in their quality of life.

“Volunteering at the Perley energizes me, fills my heart and raises my spirits,” says Michelle Gravelle, who began volunteering here two years ago and now comes 3-to-4 times a week.

“When I'm portering a resident back to their room after a concert or spiritual service, we'll often sing together,” she says. “It might look a little odd, I suppose, but it makes both of us feel good and there's nothing better than that.”

Michelle also leads weekly tours for those interested in moving to Perley Health and helps new residents transition after their move. She retired a few years ago and finds that volunteering gives new purpose to her life.

“I see the joy in residents' faces and it's infectious. Helping to brighten their day also brightens my day.”

“I feel the benefits right away,” says Heather Moxley, who has volunteered at Perley Health in a number of capacities for the last 11 years. “The rewards are immediate.”

Retired Veteran Stephen Jolicoeur started volunteering at the Perley last year. “This has been one of the most gratifying experiences of my life,” he says. “And it's rewarding to be among so many dedicated, talented professional caregivers. When I leave, my heart is full and I'm a happy camper.”

Stephen helps with breakfast and lunch service at least twice a week and serves ice cream on Wednesday afternoons. “I live in Gatineau,” he says. “A sign of how much I love it is that I have to wake up at 5:15 and drive through early rush-hour traffic to get here on time.”

Last year, Perley Health began to partner with True Patriot Love Foundation as part of a national Veteran Volunteerism Initiative. The Initiative aims to document the benefits of volunteerism on Veterans.

“I know it makes a difference in my life and in the Veteran residents that I volunteer with,” he says. “When we were in uniform, we always had each other's back,” he says. “That should not change because we no longer wear the uniform.”

See how volunteers, like Heather Moxely, serve the well-being of residents through the Family Transition team

"Volunteering at the Perley energizes me, fills my heart and raises my spirits.” - Michelle Gravelle, Volunteer (Left) pictured with Rachel Stoparczyk, Manager, Volunteer Services.