Written by Jasmine Morris, Volunteer Newsletter Editor
Lillian Friendly is a vibrant presence in the Circle of Care client community – a natural performer with a flair for storytelling, poetry and stand-up comedy. It’s no surprise, considering she comes from a family of actors, comedians and storytellers.
Though she only joined Circle of Care’s social activities programming a little over a year ago, her warmth and quick wit instantly won over staff and clients alike.
“Ordinary people get through things because we have inner strength,” Lillian says. “We have friends holding us up and offering support. And we all want to have a good time!”
That spirit of connection is exactly what drew her to Circle of Care in the first place. A friend encouraged her to give the programs a try—and she hasn’t looked back since. Lillian discovered a renewed desire to get out, socialize, and take part in engaging activities.
One of her favourite programs is Link Generations, which brings together older adults and youth for virtual conversations on everything from holiday traditions to the evolution of technology. It’s a space where laughter, learning, and intergenerational connections thrive. She also takes part in the Let’s Get Together program, a social group for seniors that meets regularly for conversation, lunch, and games.
Sharing Laughter, Spreading Joy
Before joining Circle of Care, Lillian was already using her natural comedic chops to bring joy to others. As a member of the Women Enjoying Life (WEL) Group, she toured retirement homes, performing in skits and musical acts. She played none other than Luciano Pavarotti in a Three Tenors spoof—complete with a surprise twist. During one show, she hid a banana in her cummerbund, then casually peeled and ate it mid-performance, leaving the audience in stitches.
That moment sparked her love for comedy. Soon, she was doing Tom Jones impressions and performing at events across the city. Although she’s stepped back from stand-up, her humour is ever-present—and her legacy continues through her youngest son, a comedian who has performed at Yuk Yuk’s Comedy Club.
Telling Her Story
Lillian’s creativity doesn’t end on the stage. She’s also a gifted writer with a passion for writing memoir stories. She credits her parents—especially her father, whose rainy-day storytelling enchanted Lillian and her five siblings—as the source of her inspiration.
Today, she’s a proud member of a memoir writing group and regularly shares her stories at UJA Federation’s Up from the Page events. Through these creative outlets, Lillian continues to express herself, reflect on her life, and connect with others in meaningful ways.
That same spirit of connection is what she treasures most about Circle of Care.
“Circle of Care is fabulous,” Lillian says. She’s grateful for the supportive staff, meaningful programs, and opportunities to connect. Most of all, she appreciates having a place where she’s treated with “respect and kindness.”
Lillian perfectly captures how much Circle of Care means to her and displays her creativity in this poem.
CIRCLE OF CARE
Many months ago friends made me aware
Of a program called Let’s Get Together
Hosted by Circle of Care.
This mid-day program is a great treat
It encourages we Older Folk
To mix and meet.
Picked up and delivered
Door to door
Who could ask for anything more?
Speakers of interesting topics
Music, games, and much more
Hold our attention
When they have the floor.
We get Lunch each and every time
Served with a smile——cost???
Not even a dime!!!
All the Volunteers are cheery and helpful
They always manage
To keep my cup full !!
So whenever Circle of Care
Invites me to their place
I eagerly wait to show my face.
Thank you CIRCLE OF CARE
For letting me share
The gifts of Respect and Love you give us,
And how much each of YOU care.
