Volunteering from the Heart
By Saudah Mohammad, Circle of Care Volunteer Writer
When Brahm Goldhamer knocks on his client’s door, he’s greeted with a bright smile and a warm hug. It’s the kind of moment that captures everything he loves about volunteering—genuine connection, shared joy, and the simple power of showing up for someone.
For the past six months, Brahm has been part of Circle of Care’s Friendly Visiting Program, which pairs volunteers with seniors aged 55+ who are living alone and experiencing loneliness or isolation. Many of these clients have limited family support and physical challenges that make it difficult to leave their homes independently. Through the program, Brahm has built a meaningful friendship rooted in conversation, laughter, and mutual respect.
“We’re both happy to be in each other’s presence,” he says.
Their shared passion for music has only strengthened their bond. Brahm’s client, also a musician, often plays one of his three accordions, while Brahm sings along in an impromptu duet. These visits are more than just pleasant—they’re nourishing, for both body and soul.
And for Brahm, volunteering is about more than keeping someone company.
“When you volunteer, you have to shape your role that day according to your instinct. You’re looking to see how you can make the person’s life better through your visits.”
That instinct of Brahm’s has guided meaningful conversations with his client about cultural roots, family histories, and shared life experiences—each visit deepening their friendship and mutual appreciation.
A Legacy of Giving Back
Brahm’s commitment to volunteering didn’t start with him—it runs in the family. His grandparents and parents were active community volunteers, and as a child, Brahm often joined them on Meals on Wheels deliveries. Those early memories planted the seeds for a lifelong passion for giving back.
Now semi-retired, he’s embracing this chapter of life as a chance to give more freely of his time and energy. With a natural caregiving instinct, he finds joy in helping others—and fulfillment in making people feel valued.
“It makes it more meaningful,” he says.
Empathy in Action
In a big, busy city like Toronto, Brahm knows how powerful a simple visit can be. Volunteers like him remind people that they’re not alone—that they matter.
And at the heart of it all is empathy.
“We all have to nourish ourselves, but when you’re volunteering you have to instinctively want to reach out, out of the goodness of your heart, because it makes you feel fulfilled.”
That sense of fulfillment is what keeps Brahm coming back. While other volunteer roles in the past felt like something was missing, his time as a Friendly Visitor has given him a deep sense of purpose—and a friendship that continues to grow.
As summer approaches, Brahm is looking forward to strolling through the neighbourhood with his client, continuing to build warm memories and share in moments that truly matter.
