Building Confidence
Loyola Arrupe
A centre for continuing care and independent living for seniors.
Stella confided to staff at Loyola Arrupe that she was in an abusive relationship. Loyola Arrupe Centre provides programs and services promoting healthy living. The staff listened to her, supported her, and provided referrals. They also engaged her in volunteer work because she felt trapped in her apartment with her husband.
The volunteer work boosted Stella's self-esteem, and increased her social network. She became Volunteer of the Month for the work she did at the centre. She was very proud to be a volunteer, requesting a picture of herself at the annual volunteer appreciation party to send to relatives in the old country. She tells us it feels good to be useful and needed, and that the volunteer work becomes positive proof of her worth that counteracts abusive messages from husband.
Stella is aware that people do care about her and think well of her, and we keep her in mind when we have perks such as free daytrips to give away to volunteers, since she's also on an extremely limited income. She has been invited to participate in more activities and has also joined one of our fitness classes in order to build her social network even more. Stella no longer comes to us crying, but smiles when she sees us.
Loyola Arrupe Centre for Seniors (LAC)
1709 Bloor Street West
Toronto, ON M6P 4E5
TEL 416-766-7977
loyolaarrupe@hotmail.com
www.loyolaarrupe.com