A conversation with Karine Ducharme, General Manager of Floréa
|Interview
Karine Ducharme was recently named General Manager of the Floréa residence in Terrebonne. She started there on January 6th. A few weeks after her arrival, we sat down to talk about her career and her interests. This conversation will reveal a vibrant woman who values happiness and cherishes the present moment.
Karine Ducharme, can you tell us about your career path?
I come from the restaurant world. I began my career at 16 as a dishwasher and slowly climbed the ranks until I became a director. I was fortunate to work with several renowned chains, like Les Rôtisseries Saint-Hubert, Boston Pizza, Pizza Hut, No 900 and La Cage. During the pandemic, the restaurant I worked for had to shut down, and I was out of work for five months. This time allowed me to reassess things and ask myself what I truly wanted to do. I realized that my passion for the restaurant industry had waned.
Then, one day, I stumbled upon an interesting job ad. The company was seeking a general manager for one of its private seniors’ residences (PSR). I had no idea what this sector was like, but the job description caught my attention. I applied, and the HR team decided to hire me, even though other applicants had prior experience in PSRs. I absolutely fell in love with it. The gratitude I received from the residents was truly amazing. Later, a former colleague suggested I work in an intermediate care facility, which was more healthcare-oriented. There, I worked closely with the CISSS des Laurentides, whose office was in our building. Although it was a short exposure, it was incredibly rewarding. Finally, I saw a job posting from Le Groupe Maurice for a role at Floréa; I couldn’t resist submitting my application!
Why was that?
Ever since I started working in a private seniors’ residence, I often heard about Le Groupe Maurice. It’s a real benchmark in the industry. I also attended a talk by Mr. Maurice himself, which touched me deeply. He came across as very down-to-earth and accessible. To me, it’s crucial to show others that we’re here to support them. For instance, if there’s a task to tackle in one of the departments, I don’t hesitate to pitch in and help the team. In short, even before applying to Floréa, I was already drawn to Le Groupe Maurice. I really wanted to be part of this company, but I never thought it would happen so early in my career!
What does this change represent for you?
Well, I now work only five minutes from home. You should know that I was born in Terrebonne. It’s my hometown, and I’ve always wanted to contribute to my community. I feel like I’ll be able to do that at Floréa, which I now see as my second home. This feeling of belonging might stem from the fact that I’ve been thinking for years — even before leaving the restaurant world — how great it would be to work here!
What skills from your past employment will you be able to leverage at Floréa?
Floréa is a beautiful residence that’s already thriving. I think it has an excellent reputation. Thanks to my extensive experience in customer service, I’m confident I can add an extra touch of “wow” to it. I want to create a warm and dynamic atmosphere so that people feel even more at home. I also want to bring my own personal touch.
And what’s your personal touch, Karine?
I’m someone who isn’t afraid to shake things up. For me, no topic is off-limits. In fact, I believe you can learn something new at any age. For instance, at the first residence I worked at, my team and I hosted a talk with a sexologist to discuss topics like how intimacy evolves with age, among other things. I also organized a basketball tournament so that local youth could meet and connect with the residents. It was something completely new. I love breaking down barriers. I’m also a very warm and energetic person. I like taking the time to check in with everyone, have a chat and share a laugh. I want the residents to feel comfortable approaching me and sharing their needs because this is their home.
What would you say are your greatest strengths?
People describe me as someone who’s funny and caring. But for me, it’s crucial not just to listen but to act and make things happen! I also believe I’m a strong communicator.
What’s your relationship like with older adults?
I’ve always had a very close bond with my grandmother. Sadly, she’s now in a long-term care facility (CHSLD), but I visit her often. She’s always been a constant presence for my parents and extended family. For me, being there for her is second nature. My grandmother is amazing! She was like someone born ahead of her time. She loved being in her workshop and listening to Canadiens games. Alongside her mother, she raised her brothers and sisters after her father died young. She’s a symbol of strength and courage for me, my cousins and our whole family. In fact, she’s a true cornerstone of our family. Ever since I was little, I’ve never missed a Sunday dinner with her. Because of her, my family has remained incredibly close. And we’ve all inherited her wonderful sense of humour.
What message do you want to convey to the residents of Floréa?
I want the residents to know that I’ll pour my heart and soul into my role. I’m determined to do everything in my power to ensure they feel secure, as that’s one of the key reasons people decide to live in a private seniors’ residence. I also want them to feel listened to and valued.
Now, onto some rapid-fire questions. Do you have a special talent?
I’m naturally good at sports – any kind. For instance, if I play volleyball, I might not be the top player, but I can still score points. If I grab a tennis racket, I can also hold my own in a rally.
Do you have a favourite sport?
Yes! I played basketball in university. I even worked as an assistant coach, and coached in schools for a long time. I also play baseball. From a very young age, my dad used to take me to Expos games. I dreamed of becoming the first woman to be part of that team. It’s too bad they’re gone because I’m sure I would have made that dream come true (laughs).
What song makes you want to get up and dance?
There are so many songs that make me want to dance. But if I had to choose just one, it would absolutely be September by Earth, Wind and Fire. And, fun fact, my birthday is in September!
What never fails to make you smile?
I smile every time I see an elderly couple holding hands. It fills me with joy, and I tell myself that’s what I want for myself.
What’s your favourite cuisine?
I’m a food lover, so I enjoy many things. I adore Creole cuisine, which I discovered early on thanks to my Haitian friends who shared my passion for basketball. I also love Italian and Lebanese dishes.
What’s something you want to try this year?
I want to learn how to play the piano by the end of 2025. It’s been on my mind ever since I stopped playing basketball.
What’s your philosophy on life?
Life goes by too quickly for my taste. I like to stop and take the time to appreciate the things around me. For instance, if I go to the ocean, I keep remarking how beautiful it is and how lucky I am. I’m really quite spiritual. I often thank life for giving me a wonderful family, amazing friends and a fulfilling job. Life has been good to me, and I’m grateful for all this abundance.
What gets you out of bed every day?
Ever since I began working in a senior’s residence, I’ve felt like I’m exactly where I’m meant to be. I’m thrilled to be here at Floréa. I enjoy greeting everyone in the morning. What drives me is the desire to give my all. I’m constantly working to grow and challenge myself in every area of my life.