During my time as an elected Member of the Legislature I got introduced to many organizations. L’Arche Saint John’s McKim House was in my constituency and, once they introduced themselves, there was no turning back.
For me, it was the L’Arche philosophy that was most appealing. First, McKim House. Shared living space, shared values and a deep commitment to elevating the lives of those living with intellectual disability. Not a group home, but a HOME. A home where life is experienced together and each individual, disabled or not, contributes fully to a shared environment where everyone learns and develops.
Then there is Creative Connections. It’s a wonderful and creative day program where artists and educators put their creative skills to work. Each artists is unique in their self-expression of art. You can see snipits of who they are and the parts of their daily lives that influence their craft. The transfer of this talent to many different types of mediums is powerful and a delight to witness.
And now, L’Arche Saint John has expanded its services to include L’Arche Connects where we assist individuals living independently. L’Arche Saint John’s goal is to assist those with an intellectual disability to live full lives of their choosing, and to contribute to their maximum ability.
Then there is the board. Dedicated, thoughtful and resourceful. People who understand the importance of L’Arche Saint John and what it means to community. It was my request to join when I finished my elected obligations and they welcomed me whole-heartedly.
Every parent wants their children to succeed. I have witnessed the worry and dread of aging parents thinking about their adult children who they know will live much longer than they will. They want to know that their life will continue to be a full, with friendships and security. L’Arche Saint John wants to provide that security and we strive to ensure we will be able to continue into the future for families that we can support.
It is my privilege to be a part of L’Arche Saint John and I am proud to be a contributing member to the board of directors.
Dorothy Shephard
L'Arche Saint John Board Member