L'Arche Canada is a national nonprofit organization and the Canadian branch of the international L'Arche federation. It operates to build inclusive communities where people with and without intellectual disabilities live and grow together in mutual respect and friendship. The organization is registered under the business registration number 136019122RR0001.

Overview

L'Arche Canada empowers approximately 30 local L'Arche communities across nine provinces, from Newfoundland to Vancouver Island. These communities offer accessible and inclusive housing and a wide variety of programs including visual and performing arts, crafts, music, supported employment, social enterprise initiatives, and recreational activities. Across Canada, L'Arche communities provide homes and a sense of belonging to over 500 people with intellectual disabilities.

Mission and Vision

The mission of L'Arche Canada is to make known the gifts of people with intellectual disabilities through mutually transforming relationships. It strives to foster environments that respond to the evolving dreams and needs of its members while remaining faithful to L'Arche’s founding vision and core values. The organization is dedicated to engaging diverse cultures and working collectively towards building a more compassionate and inclusive society.

Activities and Impact

L'Arche Canada facilitates a unique community model where people with and without intellectual disabilities share life together, promoting equality and mutual respect. It emphasizes that persons with intellectual disabilities contribute meaningfully as employees, volunteers, leaders, artists, teachers, friends, and family members. The organization collaborates nationally and internationally to share knowledge, resources, and best practices, serving as a bridge-builder among diverse partners across sectors.

The impact of L'Arche is felt at personal, local, regional, national, and global levels, fostering social inclusion and transforming societal attitudes towards disability. L'Arche Canada commits to creating safe and welcoming communities, ensuring that everyone has a "spot at the table."

Affiliation

L'Arche Canada is part of L'Arche International, a federation operating in 38 countries with over 180 communities worldwide. This connection enables L'Arche Canada to participate in a broader global movement dedicated to fostering belonging, joy, and equality for people with intellectual disabilities.

This article reflects information on L'Arche Canada’s structure, mission, and activities as a key Canadian nonprofit contributing to the inclusion and empowerment of people with intellectual disabilities.