Martin W. Simard, a REALTOR® and salesperson with Royal LePage Vallée de l’Outaouais, first walked through the doors of Jeunesse Idem as a teenager, drawn to the safe and inclusive space it offers for 2SLGBTQIA+ youth in the Outaouais region. Years later, with a successful real estate career underway, Martin found himself drawn back, but this time as a volunteer.
“I was a teenager who used to go to Jeunesse Idem, and when I wanted to start volunteering, I really wanted to get involved in the LGBTQ community, so I started facilitating the discussion groups with the teens,” said Martin.
As a group discussion facilitator, Martin helped create the same kind of welcoming environment he once benefited from. His involvement quickly deepened, eventually leading him to join the organization’s board of directors. Now in his third year as president of the board, Martin helps guide the organization’s vision and supports the delivery of its vital programming throughout the region.
Jeunesse Idem serves 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals aged seven to 35 in the Outaouais region, offering a wide range of services designed to create safe, affirming spaces for self-expression and support. The organization runs weekly peer discussion groups for teens and young adults, as well as informal drop-ins and community activities that help participants build connections and confidence. For those navigating more personal challenges, trained staff offer individual support sessions, including for youth facing bullying or discrimination at school, work, or home. Jeunesse Idem also works closely with families, providing guidance to parents who want to better support their children.
Beyond direct services, the organization delivers professional training and awareness workshops to schools, police services, and municipal staff, helping to foster more inclusive institutions across the region. Their mission is rooted in visibility, understanding, and respect, ensuring that every young person has the chance to explore their identity without fear and to feel supported in their community.
Jeunesse Idem organizes a variety of community events throughout the year that help create safe, joyful spaces for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community to feel supported and celebrated. From drag performances to an annual family barbecue against homophobia, these events are designed to bring people together and build a sense of belonging. By inviting the broader public to participate, Jeunesse Idem helps foster greater understanding and acceptance across the community.
<p style="text-align:center;"><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fjeunesseidem%2Fposts%2Fpfbid0AM3aghsBXSM1qMtXG7DrfxhoiwstbpcDRMM1FdQ6tSnmgCaHb3j4zN2UekjJjAadl&show_text=true&width=500" width="500" height="793" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></p>“We’re human beings just like everyone else. It really contributes to acceptance, understanding, and visibility too,” explained Martin.
These moments of visibility and connection can have a powerful impact, especially on youth who may be navigating their identities in isolation. For Martin, one of their events for Pride Week 2022 left a lasting impression: “There were lots of young teens, and there was a drag show. The look in their eyes, it really moved me to see that they’re not alone, and to feel that they’re supported by the community, with the public. They felt comfortable. I was completely touched to see them happy.”
This summer, Jeunesse Idem will once again be at the heart of local Pride celebrations in Gatineau, hosting a full week of inclusive and festive programming for people of all ages. From their participation in the pride parade, to hosting drag performances in downtown Hull, these activities serve as a joyful affirmation of identity and community. The team is also preparing to mark a major milestone: Jeunesse Idem’s 30th anniversary. To celebrate, they’ll be organizing a community barbecue to honour the organization’s legacy and mission.
Like many nonprofits, Jeunesse Idem relies heavily on fundraising and donations to sustain its programming. Government funding has declined significantly in recent years, making community support more essential than ever. Simard emphasizes that behind the scenes, it’s the dedication of the team, especially the frontline staff and the organization’s General Director, Érik Bisson, that keeps everything running.
“It’s so important to give back to the community. Life moves so fast, and giving back does so much good. Even if we have very busy careers and packed schedules, just giving a bit of time to the community makes a difference,” shared Martin.
Whether it’s volunteering, donating, or simply showing up to events, Martin always encourages others to get involved with Jeunesse Idem in whatever way they can. By supporting youth and helping them feel seen, valued, and safe, Jeunesse Idem is building a future where the 2SLGBTQIA+ community is not only included, but truly understood and accepted.
