“Every time I visit him it is great to see his reaction when he first sees me there. Dickens has a great sense of humour and spending time with him allows me to not only share some of my jokes with him but also get a chuckle at some of the things he has to say … Given the nature of Dickens’ condition, it is tough sometimes to believe that what I am doing is meaningful to Dickens … However, just because you can’t see results one day shouldn’t deter one from continuing to act in a manner that may be beneficial to another person.”Anthony Ruberto

Everyday Champions Advocate

People need people and an emotional support animal.  We recognize the importance of friends and networks in our lives.  Every day, we see evidence of how personal relationships and networks help support and resolve personal and professional matters.  We use our networks to help others – whether it’s related to getting a job, finding a professional resource or for social and recreational purposes.  We rely on these rich personal networks and relationships. Many people with disabilities don’t have the benefit of these relationships.

Marilyn and Laurena have been matched for a year and have created a wonderful reminder of the joy their match has brought to each of them: a quilt.

Another significant accomplishment is that Marilyn and Laurena are starting to travel together around the city by bus. This is an important step towards one of the Marilyn’s match goals.

Laurena and Marilyn have many other things in common besides a love of crafting – talking, relaxing, an appreciation of the spiritual side of life, enjoying each other’s company, a love of cats and husbands who are both proud to be called “nerds”.

A year later, after weekly quilting sessions, trips to craft fairs and the Byward Market both agree that they are really happy to have each other in their lives and are certain their friendship will continue well into the future.Marilyn & Laurena

Everyday Champion Match