Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly

Overview

Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly is a non-profit, volunteer-based organization in the United States committed to alleviating loneliness and isolation among the elderly. It is a member of the International Federation of Little Brothers of the Poor and operates chapters in several U.S. cities, including San Francisco, Chicago, Boston, Cincinnati, and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

History

The organization was inspired by Armand Marquiset, a French nobleman who founded "Les Petits Frères des Pauvres" (Little Brothers of the Poor) in France in 1946. Marquiset's mission was to serve isolated and lonely elderly individuals who had lost family members and savings during World War II. His work profoundly impacted the post-war community in Paris, and his motto, "flowers before bread," emphasized the importance of emotional and social support for the elderly, alongside basic necessities[1][2][3].

Mission and Activities

Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly focuses on providing companionship and celebrating life with older adults. The organization offers various programs and activities to combat loneliness, promote social interaction, and support independent living. Volunteers play a crucial role in these efforts, engaging in one-on-one and group activities with the elderly, fostering intergenerational connections, and advocating for resources that help seniors live safely at home[4][5].

Structure and Expansion

The organization operates as a network of independent chapters across the United States and is part of a global network spanning ten countries, including France, Ireland, Canada, Spain, Germany, Romania, Switzerland, Poland, Mexico, and the United States. Despite being founded with roots in Catholic tradition, Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly is today a secular organization[2][5].

Philosophy

The philosophy of Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly is rooted in the belief that social interaction is vital to the human spirit. The organization emphasizes that nurturing the soul is as important as feeding the body, reflecting Marquiset's original principles of prioritizing emotional and social needs alongside material ones[3][5].