The organization
10 people to support you
Established 30 years ago by a few founding caregivers, the Groupe des aidants du Sud-Ouest (commonly known as GASO) has expanded following its positive impact in the community.
Contact Information
Our mission
We strive to enhance caregivers' quality of life, prevent burnout, and advocate for their recognition and rights within the community.
Our vision
We aim to meet the needs of adult caregivers in the West and South-West of Montreal by ensuring they feel supported, heard, and equipped to tackle the challenges they encounter daily.
What is important
Our Values
Self-determination, or empowerment, is at the heart of our approach. We believe that every caregiver, as well as every member of our staff, should be supported in their ability to act and make choices. The caregiver is an expert in their situation and is best positioned to choose their solutions if they receive appropriate guidance.
Respect for the pace and challenges of each caregiver. Mutual respect between counsellor and members creates a healthy and safe atmosphere for everyone.
Transparency of each individual involved in GASO activities underlies good organizational management, promotes smooth internal procedures, and helps develop strong relationships with community partners.
Accessibility to the organization's services and personalized support within a reasonably short timeframe provides close access to our members. Thus, the organization aims to be an accessible, inclusive, and safe place for every caregiver, regardless of their life context.
Uniqueness of each caregiver, their reality, journey, and experiences. The organization places this concept at the core of its operations: by developing their uniqueness, the staff encourages the innovative spirit of GASO.
Confidentiality of personal information, experiences, and stories. The organization operates a secure and professional database managed solely by internal administration. Confidentiality is at the forefront of all our services.
The team
Always listening to you
Openness and professionalism
Meet the team
The board of directors
Hélène Bourduas
President
Jean-Pierre Lavoie
Administrator
André Valois
Treasurer
Sylvie Gravel
Vice President
Nathalie Lacroix-Maillette
Administrator
Lucie Desgroseilliers
Secretary
Micheline Raymond
Administrator
Testimonial
A lifebuoy
Retired from the field of education after nearly 40 years, I have always been fascinated by human development. In 2019, I cared for my mother as her health declined, discovering firsthand the many challenges that come with a loved one’s illness. Like many caregivers, I experienced the overwhelming wave of emotions that comes with this role. Feeling completely submerged, I was fortunate to find GASO and join their burnout prevention workshops—a true lifeline in my caregiving journey.
Discovering GASO’s services was a revelation for me. I realized how lucky I was to have crossed paths with these passionate and dedicated young professionals committed to the well-being of caregivers—the invisible angels of our society. This is why I chose to get involved on the Board of Directors: to help raise awareness of this exceptional organization and support its growth.
- Hélène Bourduas, Chair of the Board of Directors
Our Impact
Throughout our accomplishments
Curious about discovering the impact of our actions over the years? Explore our annual reports and other relevant publications to better understand our commitment and evolution within the community. These resources provide you with a detailed overview of our achievements and the path we've traveled since 1995!
Dedicated ally
The ProAllié program with the Émergence Foundation
The ProAllié program of the Fondation Émergence aims to create allied workplaces that ensure the safety and inclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals. The GASO team members have been trained on the fundamentals of sexual and gender diversity, the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ people, and best practices for ensuring inclusive spaces. Through the ProAllié program, GASO is committed to being a proactive and engaged ally.