Erol’s Story

Erol started his journey with L’Arche in 2017 as a participant in the Emmaus Centre, the previous name of our day program. At that time, he lived with his mom; now he’s a member of Cedar House, one of the L’Arche homes in our new building, and participates in our Evergreen Day Program. 

It’s well known that Erol is a big fan of the Vancouver Canucks as he’s often seen wearing a Canucks hat or hoody. He and Laura translated his love of hockey into their “Double Hockey Sticks” painting they created for L’Arche’s 2025 Art Show.

Although his favourite Evergreen activity is checking out sports and games on the computer, he also takes his responsibilities to the program and others seriously. He takes care of the garbage and composting when needed, washes dishes, and generally helps with cleaning up. He goes bowling, recycling, helps deliver Meals on Wheels, shops, and sets up the tables for the Friday Lunch Program. When it’s his turn to pick the menu for Friday lunch, it’s burgers and macaroni salad. 

His mom, Lynne, knows how important L’Arche is to Erol. “Erol has a group of friends at L'Arche, which means a great deal to someone as social as he is.  As a mother, it means a great deal to know that he is safe and enjoying new opportunities.” 

His friends in the program say that Erol has a contagious laugh and a great sense of humor. He also knows a few phrases in multiple languages and sometimes greets people in a language that they are familiar with. In a community as diverse as L’Arche, Erol fits right in and helps others do the same.