L’Arche, established in 1964 by Jean Vanier, is an International Federation of people, with and without disability, sharing life in communities. There are 151 communities in 37 countries around the world. L’Arche is the only disability organisation to be appointed as a consultant to the United Nations.
L’Arche communities support and enable people with disabilities to take their place in the world, giving them the means to express themselves and contribute to society, making it more authentically human.
Building and valuing relationships is at the heart of the L’Arche philosophy. Ms Shirley Crowe, Board Chair of L’Arche Hunter, said that it is very important that the people who will be residing in the home are compatible and are also involved in the process of choosing with whom they would like to live.
Ms Crowe said that the local community has been a wonderful support with many individuals and businesses donating cash, donations of raffle prizes for fundraising or labour and discounts on building equipment, whitegoods and furniture. Ms Crowe said that Newcastle Lions Club provided labour for removal of carpets and some internal painting. Programmed Property Services, Winnings, Tile Mega Mart and Harvey Norman are just some of the organisations that have assisted L’Arche.
If you know of any person with an intellectual disability who would like to be considered for the Merewether home, please P Shirley Crowe, Board Chair, 0499 238 848 or Krishnee Nair, NSW Leader, (02) 9787 8132.
If you would like more information on L’Arche please visit www.larchehunter.org.au