L’Arche, French for The Ark, was founded in 1964 by Jean Vanier, “to begin something” for people with learning disabilities. It was in 1974 that L’Arche first arrived in England, and came to Liverpool in 1976. “Building relationships and a sense of home and belonging are at the heart of all we do”. L’Arche provides creative craft and therapeutic activities which helps support people during the daytime”
The Vincentian Volunteer works in the Day Centre, with Core Members who wish to avail of the craft and therapeutic activities. The volunteer is included in the candle workshops, weaving programmes, card making, and with the gardening projects. Through being involved in these activities the volunteer can begin to build relationships with the core members, and that is at the heart of what belonging to L’Arche means. It is in relationships that the core members and others become clearer about their individual identity and giftedness. This takes time and great patience but the volunteer who perseveres is always richly rewarded, and discovers something more about him/herself. It usually becomes an amazing experience.
Rae and his staff ensure that the volunteer has supervision and time to learn new skills. The volunteer works at L’Arche for thirty hours a week. It is worth noting that many previous volunteers who have been at L’Arche, Liverpool have found themselves in another L’Arche somewhere else in the world!
www.larcheliverpool.org