L'Arche Canada Foundation / Fondation L'Arche Canada

L'Arche Canada Foundation (French: Fondation L'Arche Canada) is a Canadian nonprofit organization affiliated with the international L'Arche movement, which is dedicated to supporting people with intellectual disabilities. The foundation serves as the national arm of L'Arche in Canada, supporting and empowering L'Arche communities across the country.

History and Background

L'Arche was originally founded in 1964 in Trosly-Breuil, France, by Jean Vanier, a Canadian philosopher and theologian. Vanier was inspired to create communities where people with intellectual disabilities could live together with those who assist them, fostering mutual relationships in a shared home environment. The first Canadian L'Arche community opened in 1969 in Richmond Hill, Ontario, establishing the presence of L'Arche within Canada. Since then, L'Arche has expanded across the country, growing to include over 30 communities in multiple provinces.

Mission and Activities

The mission of L'Arche Canada Foundation is to make known the gifts of people with intellectual disabilities as revealed through mutually transforming relationships. The foundation promotes the creation of inclusive communities where people with and without intellectual disabilities live, work, and learn together. It fosters environments that respond to the evolving needs of its members while remaining true to the core values embedded in L'Arche's founding story.

L'Arche Canada Foundation supports its member communities by sharing knowledge, resources, and services to enhance their capacity and impact. The foundation acts as a bridge-builder within local, national, and international networks, collaborating with multi-sectoral partners to advance inclusion and belonging for people with intellectual disabilities.

Structure and Funding

L'Arche Canada Foundation operates alongside related organizations such as the Fondation des Arches du Quebec and the Association des Arches du Quebec. The foundation relies on the efforts of both volunteers and paid staff, and is funded through a combination of charitable donations and government support at the provincial and federal levels.

Significance

L'Arche Canada Foundation plays a pivotal role in strengthening and unifying the efforts of L'Arche communities throughout Canada. By nurturing inclusive relationships and advocating for the recognition of the gifts of people with intellectual disabilities, the foundation contributes to building a more inclusive society.

Business Registration Number: 889909719RR0001

Note: The organization is registered as a charitable nonprofit and is part of the broader international L'Arche federation.