The gift that Jean Vanier, Phillipe and Raphael gave to the world is as beautiful as it is simple: "You matter".

As a parent you always want the best for your child.  As a parent of an adult child with significant disabilities, you begin to understand their independence may look very different than children of your friends.

When I first moved to L’Arche Heartland, I had a pretty good idea that it wouldn’t be “just a job.”

Throughout my young adulthood, I have been searching out my vocation. L’Arche Heartland has given me a place to practice a vocation that St. Therese of Lisieux described as “the little way”.

I joined L'Arche as a live-in assistant almost a month ago. My second weekend here, I was on overnight duty for one of our core members who tends to wake up a lot during the night.

What I love about L'Arche is that it's like having a big extended family. There are so many opportunities, especially for social and spiritual growth.

When asked what she likes about L’Arche Academy, she said “I just really enjoy it!” She was then asked what she enjoys about it. Her responses were endless: “I like singing and keeping the beat,” (referring to morning sing-along).