Meet the members

James Lapierre

James Lapierre has always been involved in his community. He first worked in the sports field, both professionally and as a volunteer. He got involved in his children's sports teams; a way to be present with them, to share passion and pleasure, and to develop a positive relationship. Throughout his career, he worked in the aquatic sector for the City of Dollard-des-Ormeaux and as a sports coordinator and sports director for the Special Olympics, which led him to develop great expertise in this field and with people with intellectual disabilities.

In 1990, Mr. Lapierre moved to Pointe-Claire and in the same year heard about the Volunteer Rescue Unit in a newspaper. He decided to get involved, as did his wife. He has been a member of the organization ever since, where he has held practically every role: medical officer, captain, training officer, reservist, and even director of the rescue unit.

Upon his arrival, he already had several skills and techniques in rescue and first aid, acquired through his work. It is indeed, among other things, his knowledge that makes him a good candidate for the organization. For all other areas, the Volunteer Rescue Unit offers training and support, allowing all members to intervene in the different situations they will encounter.

Over the past ten years, James Lapierre has transitioned from an active member to a reservist, meaning he lends a hand as needed during larger events but is no longer present on a weekly basis. This has allowed him to engage in other ways and with other groups in the West Island. However, with the onset of the pandemic in March 2020, he realizes he misses the organization: he loves the sense of camaraderie found there and feels the need to reconnect with the community. He thus becomes an active member again that same summer.

Currently responsible for training, Mr. Lapierre coordinates the training plan for members, ensuring that the teachings cover all topics and that people acquire the necessary expertise to intervene. The training sessions are diverse and can cover medical aspects, location knowledge, search and rescue, as well as types of tools and their handling, etc.

“Although technology has changed in thirty years, know-how and resourcefulness remain at the heart of our operation,” notes this member who has seen time pass. According to him, things have changed... and haven't changed! People from yesterday, like those today, are there to help and get involved. “People need to know how to look at a problem and find a solution, the basic elements don't change. Yes, we have Google Maps on our smartphones, but if your phone runs out of battery, you need to know how to look at a map!” he emphasizes.

If he summarizes in his own words what the Volunteer Rescue Unit is, he tells us that the organization is there "for the small things and the big things.” Through its actions, the USVPC makes a difference in people's lives and supports them when they face a problem. Some situations are not within the scope of the 911 emergency services or the Red Cross, so the Unit is there!

“By becoming a member of the USVPC, I expected to use my knowledge in first aid and search and rescue, to support people in specific situations, like floods, but not to search for missing persons, mobilize the team, go into the field, and be present with the family,” concludes James Lapierre. “Our greatest strength is our presence with people!”