This mother’s day, Gloria April and her daughter Susan Ralph, both plan to celebrate a special day together and at the same time acknowledge their passion for community involvement. While Gloria has been involved at the Centre’s gift boutique for some 20 years, her daughter Susan only recently began to volunteer at the drop-in program for older adults. The mother and daughter duo not only contribute their time and talent to the Cummings Centre but are also highly motivated to make a difference in the lives of others.

Gloria April

When Gloria retired from owning and operating a retail store in the Cavendish Mall she came to the Cummings Centre planning to get involved. Her years of experience in merchandising and display were welcomed at the Centre. Twenty years later, she has not only contributed to the development of the Centre’s gift boutique but has inspired her daughter to also get involved.

“I like the atmosphere at the Centre and being part of the community,” said Gloria who is present at the boutique on a regular basis, joining a team of dedicated volunteers. “It is a good feeling when we make a sale in the boutique because I know it benefits the Centre and all that it does for the 50+ community.”

Susan Ralph

Bringing meaning to the familiar expression of the ‘apple not falling far from the tree’ is particularly true for Susan who was also inspired by her mother’s volunteer commitment to give her time. Susan volunteers at the Centre’s drop-in program in Cote St. Luc, a community initiative that not only provides respite to caregivers but helps to maintain and improve the social, physiological, emotional and cognitive abilities of older adults.

“I have always been interested in working with seniors,” said Susan, who helps animate activities at the drop-in program. “It is very inspiring to see the positive attitude of the participants. I look forward to my involvement each week and being able to give back to the community. My mom who is so active also inspires me. I also see her as a role model, volunteering in the community and this has influenced me as well.

For more information or to get involved visit cummingscentre.org or call 514.343.3510.