Born in Pohénéhamook, Quebec, Laoie became a community worker after university studies in fine art, developng a special interest in substance abuse among young people.

In 1979, he began his long involvement in building Montral's gay community by forming discussion groups and information services for gay men with addiction problems. He was also an active participant in early community publishing efforts and was an editor of Le Berdache.

Lavoie was a key organiser in the arts. In 1987 he co-founded Quebec Gay and Lesbian annual gay film festival. and exhibitions aimed at confronting HIV/AIDS. In 1990, Lavoie immersed himself in AIDS activism and community research.