Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name ‘L’Arche’ mean?
L’Arche is the French word for an ark, as in Noah’s Ark. It was the name given to the original home created by Jean Vanier in Trosly-Breuil, France, where he welcomed two people with developmental disabilities. Subsequent houses founded in Trosly received individual names, although they were all under the L’Arche umbrella.
Other communities that started in France and elsewhere have followed suit. However, the communities in India, founded in a Hindu context, use the term Asha Niketan, meaning House of Welcome. Eventually all the L’Arche communities worldwide decided to join the International Federation of L’Arche Communities, better known today as L’Arche International.
How is L’Arche governed?
L’Arche Greater Vancouver is governed by two volunteer Boards who carry authority and responsibilities in various areas.
The L’Arche Greater Vancouver Board is responsible for:
- Supporting the community in living the mission of L’Arche.
- Supporting the community in implementing its mandate and growing in the true spirit of L’Arche.
- Providing oversight by ensuring the legal and financial integrity of the community.
- Upholding the credibility of the community with local authorities by ensuring compliance with care and quality standards.
- Contributing to the future development and growth of the community.
The L’Arche Foundation of Greater Vancouver Board is responsible for:
- Assisting the mission of L’Arche by securing funds from non-governmental sources.
- New capital projects and building programs.
Who funds L’Arche?
Most of the operational funding for L’Arche Greater Vancouver comes from Community Living BC, the Crown Corporation responsible for adults with developmental disabilities. Funding for additional programs, capital projects, and other activities that make L’Arche unique comes from individual donors, grantors, community groups, and religious organizations.
Is L’Arche a religious organization?
We believe in the importance of spirituality and the search for meaning in life. L’Arche is rooted in the Christian gospel and continues to be shaped by people of different beliefs, practices, and religions. L’Arche promotes the well-being of everyone in its community, regardless of their ability, faith, religious, or philosophical tradition.
Whether one is Christian, Hindu, Muslim, or one of the many who stand outside the major faith traditions, the experience of living together leads to a better understanding of our shared humanity. Given L’Arche’s stated aim to help each person develop and fulfill their potential, the community is led naturally to respond to their physical, developmental, emotional, relational, and spiritual needs.
What is meant by intentional community?
An intentional community is defined as a group of people who have chosen to be together in pursuit of a common ideal. At L’Arche, our common ideal is that adults with and without developmental disabilities share life together and that each person has a voice. Our community is comprised of members who are able to apply their abilities and are encouraged to take on opportunities that impact the community in a meaningful way.
What is an intellectual or developmental disability?
The mission of L’Arche focuses on the needs of people with developmental or intellectual disabilities. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a developmental disability is defined as a greater than average limit on an individual’s mental capacity – this would limit how quickly a person can learn or remember new information.
There are various causes of developmental disability, some of which are presently unknown. Genetics causes include Down syndrome, which is one of the most common disabilities. Precise definitions and respectful terminology may vary. However, it is important to avoid negative terms and remember that whatever words are used, such a label can never convey the full richness and complexity of the person.
What is meant by Inclusion?
Inclusion means enabling people with disabilities to assume their place in society. People are not only “supported”, they also have responsibilities. They are invited to participate in decision-making and have a voice in the expansion of a vision. They are full citizens who can speak to defend their rights and commit to a cause like everyone else.
What is meant by Assistant?
People who have developmental disabilities often need support in their daily lives. This is where L’Arche Assistants come in. They “assist” in various tasks such as cooking, household maintenance, medical appointments, and personal care. The role of an Assistant can involve sharing in homelife, helping in a Day Program, or taking on a leadership role.
How does someone get into L’Arche?
Admission is carried out in partnership with Community Living BC (CLBC) link to CLBC based on the following:
- Do we have vacancies in our Homes or Day Programs?
- What are the support needs of the individual?
- Can we meet those support needs?
- Is the individual qualified for our current programs?
Learn more about the L’Arche Homes or Day Programs.
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