07/23/2026
✨ Volunteer Spotlight: Normand "The Cheese Man" ✨
Sometimes, the impact of a wish reaches far beyond the day it comes true.
In May 2024, We Are Young had the privilege of granting Normand's lifelong wish to see how cheese is made. What began as a dream to tour a cheese factory quickly became something much bigger than any of us could have imagined.
Before his wish had even come to an end, Normand shared something we'll never forget. He believed deeply in We Are Young's mission and wanted to help ensure more seniors discovered that their dreams still mattered.
And he has kept that promise.
As the pastor at York Care Centre, Normand has generously shared his wish experience with seniors throughout his community, speaking with groups including the Adult Day Program, Nursing Without Walls, Stepping Stones, and a widows' support group. He has also shared his story through newspaper and media interviews, helping spread the message even further.
Through every conversation, presentation, interview, and social media post, Normand reminds people that dreams don't have an age limit and that it's never too late to experience something you've always hoped for.
Because of his passion and generosity, more seniors have learned about We Are Young, more families have discovered our mission, and more wish nominations have been submitted by people who finally realized their dreams were worth sharing.
That is the true ripple effect of one wish.
But Normand's impact goes far beyond sharing our story.
He has travelled with us to celebrate the wishes of others, offering encouragement, laughter, and support along the way. He has cheered someone on as they faced their fears and took on a ziplining adventure. He has even challenged himself by stepping into a helicopter despite being terrified of flying, proving that courage often begins with taking that first step outside your comfort zone.
And, of course, no Normand story would be complete without mentioning his famous cheese hat. After his wish, he bought himself one, and ever since, every email he sends is signed, "The Cheese Man." It is a tradition that never fails to bring a smile.
At We Are Young, we believe a wish can transform a life.
Normand has shown us that a wish can do something even more extraordinary. It can inspire someone to give back, share their story, and help create life-changing moments for others.
Normand, thank you for becoming an incredible volunteer, advocate, and friend. Your kindness, enthusiasm, and unwavering belief in our mission have helped more seniors discover that their dreams still matter.
Your wish may have started with cheese, but the legacy you've created is hope. ❤️
If you know a senior with a lifelong dream they've never had the chance to fulfill, we'd love to hear their story.
Every wish nomination has the power to create a life-changing experience and begin a ripple effect of hope, just as Normand has shown us.
Help us honor incredible advocates like Normand by helping us find the next senior whose dream is waiting to be fulfilled.
Nominate a senior today and help us continue creating moments that change lives: https://www.weareyoung.ca/submit-a-wish
York Care Centre & Foundation Adult Day Program YCC Nursing Home Without Walls - York Care Centre
