Arezoo’s Friendship: Finding Purpose Through Volunteering

Two years ago, Arezoo was looking for meaningful volunteer opportunities in the community when she came across ABLE2’s Matching Program. She was drawn to the idea of one-on-one interaction and building a friendship with a person with a disability. She was matched with Sonia, who was then looking for a volunteer for companionship and someone to do activities with. 

Over the last two years, Arezoo and Sonia’s friendship has grown into something extraordinary. Their weekly get-togethers became a space filled with laughter, comfort, and a sense of escape from life’s challenges.

“Our time together has given Sonia an outlet to step out of her reality. I’m not part of her healthcare team— I’m just a friend who shows up for her, cracks some jokes and has some fun,” says Arezoo.

She also shares that they have both developed a genuine love and care for each other.

“It’s heartwarming to see Sonia develop that ease of having someone she can rely on,” she adds.

But while Arezoo’s presence has undoubtedly brought comfort and joy to Sonia, she is quick to acknowledge that the experience has been just as enriching for her.

“This experience has definitely given me a sense of purpose,” Arezoo reflects. “It has been grounding as well, to be fully present with someone, to be there for them, rather than thinking of all the things I have to do. It has helped me slow down and appreciate the simple moments in life,” says Arezoo. 

Their favourite activity together is to go to a park, sit in the sunshine and feed the pigeons. For someone who is always on the go, Arezoo considers this cherished ritual a meditative experience.

“When Sonia became ill a year ago, I found myself in our usual spot, feeding the pigeons for her. That’s when I realized her impact in my life; the experience was just so simple, but it meant a lot to me,” Arezoo recalls.

Over time their conversations grew deeper, touching on topics like illness and mortality.

“Being part of those conversations has been powerful and sacred,” Arezoo says. “It’s a testament to the depth of the relationship we’ve built.” 

For Arezoo, ABLE2’s Matching Program model of developing long-term connections is what sets it apart.

“It might seem like a big commitment to some, but it’s incredibly rewarding. The program doesn’t just protect the well-being of the person with disability, it also creates a sense of safety for the volunteer. The support from social workers, especially in the beginning, was invaluable. Knowing that someone is there to advocate for Sonia has been reassuring,” says Arezoo.

The impact of volunteers like Arezoo extends far beyond just one individual. ABLE2’s Matching Program offers people with disabilities the opportunity to build lasting friendships, have new experiences, and find moments of meaning and joy outside of their everyday challenges. Volunteers, in turn, find purpose, connection, and often, a profound shift in their own lives.

When you support ABLE2, whether as a donor, volunteer, or advocate, you help create meaningful and profound friendships like Arezoo and Sonia’s. Every gift ensures that more people like Sonia can develop friendships based on mutual trust and support, while volunteers like Arezoo can continue to find purpose and connection in giving back. 

Join us in empowering more people with disabilities to build lives of meaning and joy.