Maryse and Grace: A Friendship That Grew into Family

When Maryse signed up to become a volunteer Ally more than a decade ago, she never imagined that what began as an act of giving back, would evolve into something more. After retiring due to illness, Maryse was eager to reconnect with her community. Volunteering had always been part of her life, but the opportunity she found through ABLE2’s Matching Program turned out to be something more than volunteering—it became a gateway to family.

Grace had just moved to Ottawa from Toronto. With few social connections, she found herself struggling with loneliness in an unfamiliar city. A social worker referred her to ABLE2’s Matching Program in the hopes that she might find friendship and a stronger sense of belonging. When she met Maryse, that hope became a reality. “Maryse helped me get to my appointments, run errands, and just be out in the community,” Grace says. “She made everything better. She made me feel like I wasn’t alone.”

In the beginning, the two met weekly to pick up groceries, visit garden centres, and grab meals at Swiss Chalet. Grace, an avid gardener, shared her love of plants while finding joy in their regular outings. “We used to see each other more back then,” Maryse says. “But now, because of mobility issues, we still make time for a video call almost every day.”

Over the years, Maryse’s husband Ron naturally became part of Grace’s circle of support. They’ve stepped in during emergencies, attended family milestones together, and have been a helping hand. Grace’s son Ernest, who also participates in ABLE2 programs, is now part of what Maryse lovingly calls “our little Ottawa family.” She adds, “We don’t have close relatives here, so Grace and Ernest became ours.” 

And that love goes both ways. They celebrate birthdays and holidays, share laughs, and even attend occasional parties. “They’ve been there through everything,” Grace says. “Maryse was there when I was in the hospital, or just when I needed someone to talk to. Maryse makes my day.”

Maryse, Grace, and Ernest at ABLE2’s Holiday Dinner & Dance 

When asked how volunteering has impacted her life, Maryse says, “It’s more than volunteering. It’s enriching. It’s fun. It’s nourishing. You gain so much more than you give.” Her words echo the core truth of ABLE2’s Matching Program: while volunteers sign up to give their time and support, they often walk away with something even greater—a deeper sense of connection, purpose, and joy.

Twelve years after their first meeting, Maryse and Grace are no longer just a Match—they’re family. They’ve woven their lives together through the small, beautiful rituals of friendship: from holiday dinners to inside jokes (including the infamous day a seagull stole a hot dog right off of Ernest’s hand!). These moments, though seemingly ordinary, are what give life meaning—and they are exactly what the Matching Program was designed to make possible.

ABLE2’s Matching Program has been building friendships like this for over 50 years—helping people with disabilities and volunteers find the meaningful social connections that everyone deserves. But the need is greater than ever. Today, over 140 people are still waiting to be matched.

When you support ABLE2—whether by donating, volunteering, or simply sharing our story—you help create more connections like Grace and Maryse’s. You help transform loneliness into laughter, and isolation into inclusion. You help build a community where everyone belongs.

Be part of the story. Support ABLE2 today.