Living with Kindness – The Art of Connecting with Others
Every July 30th, International Friendship Day celebrates altruism, mutual respect and kindness among people. At Le Groupe Maurice, that kindness comes to life in our residences, where thoughtful team members and engaged residents create a true sense of community and support every single day.
Across our residences, amazing initiatives are helping to break isolation and bring people together. It’s all about building an environment where friendship and support are just part of everyday life. Take a look at some inspiring examples of this spirit in action!
“Lunchtime Chats” at Les Verrières du Golf
Loneliness can reach anyone, anywhere. It touches young people, older adults, families and workers alike. And it’s more than just a personal challenge – it’s something we all need to face together.
At Les Verrières du Golf, it all began with one question: how can we take on this social challenge, in our own way? That’s when Geneviève Raitt, Executive Assistant at Le Groupe Maurice, shared an idea with Caroline Acoca, Living Environment Manager: why not bring residents and head office employees together for a Lunchtime Chat, to connect and enjoy each other’s company?
So, in May 2025, eight head office employees and eight residents sat down together in the dining room. No set program, no dress code – just honest, easy-going chats over a great meal. And the result? A warm, joyful moment, full of laughter and real connection that left a lasting impression on everyone there.
“What made this meal even more special was having residents from the care unit join us. People with reduced autonomy are, sadly, still too invisible in our society. I was touched and inspired. I can’t wait to go back!” shared Emmanuelle Amselem Ouellette, Legal Affairs Manager – Operations.
Not only did this first Lunchtime Chat bring a genuine sense of kindness into the residence, it also broke down barriers and built a bridge between two groups who often share the same space without truly knowing one another. And it’s just the start. Another lunch happened in July, and more are on the way. Looks like the table’s only going to get bigger!
“The Friendship Table” at Elogia
At Elogia, they kicked off something special last March called The Friendship Table, inspired by Montreal’s yellow benches and designed to fight isolation. The idea is simple but powerful: a welcoming spot where anyone can sit down – on their own or with company – to chat, relax and share a coffee or a moment together.
Representing openness and empathy, The Friendship Table naturally took its place in Elogia’s common areas. It soon became a welcoming spot, capturing the residents’ affection. Some who were once reluctant now visit it without hesitation.
“Other spaces have been set up with the same goal of encouraging interaction, and the team is doing everything possible to make the most of them and bring them to life. The residents seem to appreciate it: nowadays, we almost wonder who will be the first to sit down at the table for a coffee chat!” explained Simon Maurer, Living Environment Manager.
The table still serves its purpose today. In addition, a special table, marked by its blue tablecloth, has also been placed in the dining room to encourage residents who dine alone to share a meal with fellow guests.
By encouraging social connections, this initiative has fostered greater empathy, attentiveness and support among residents. It has eased the burden of loneliness and reinforced the sense that everyone belongs to a community that sincerely looks out for one another.
“Let’s Stay in Touch” at iVVi
Started in December 2024, the Let’s Stay in Touch initiative at iVVi stemmed from a suggestion by a resident volunteer, highly engaged in community life and concerned about the lingering isolation brought on by the pandemic.
The goal is to help reconnect people – especially those less active in group activities – through regular, informal contact between residents and volunteers, i.e. phone calls, coffees, walks, bingo or simple hallway chats. Each person can choose how often and in what way they connect.
As the weeks went by, the spirit of the initiative caught on. Many residents naturally adopted this thoughtful approach in their daily routines, bringing back a sense of warmth and inclusion.
“Let’s Stay in Touch has ultimately become a way of life in the residence. Listening and small gestures really did their magic!” shared Joanie Fournier, Living Environment Manager.
Motivated by the initiative’s success, iVVi intends to carry it forward and broaden its reach, including with themed summer meetups. There’s no doubt that goodwill and togetherness among residents are here to stay!
When kindness makes a difference
Initiatives like these, among many others here, highlight an important reality: respect and compassion are not matters of age but of fundamental human values. Every person deserves recognition, attentive listening and support throughout their lifetime. And although these efforts come alive in Le Groupe Maurice residences, they manifest in a thousand different ways according to the setting and the communities involved.
For instance, at Ambiance, new arrivals are welcomed with a mimosa toast alongside long-time residents. This cozy, carefully planned gathering helps break the ice and makes settling in easier.
At Sevä residence, the Happy Table gathering invites residents eager to discover their new home and engage with others around a meal. A straightforward concept that beautifully illustrates the happiness of welcoming others from day one.
At Promenades du Parc, The Friendship Café gathers people weekly around refreshments and piano melodies. Meanwhile, at Quartier Mont-Saint-Hilaire, a pairing project has created greater bonds between independent residents and those in the care wing…
These simple gestures, repeated day after day, help weave a culture of caring for one another. A culture that nurtures friendship, better living and better aging. Because to age is to live – and even the smallest connection can make all the difference!
