Above: Anifat (left) and Kathryn (right), collaborate on an art project at Creative Connections.
Firstly, I would like to thank the entire management of the L’Arche organization for giving me the opportunity to advance my career as a Human Service Practitioner through my mandatory field placement as a student at New Brunswick Community College.
My journey to L’Arche came as a surprise. As a newcomer and a student in the Human Service Practitioner program, I was familiar with nursing homes, youth homes, and home care organizations. However, my instructor introduced me to a wonderful organization — L’Arche Saint John — that listens to families of adults with intellectual challenges who are yearning and in desperate need of support.
It goes without saying that L’Arche not only provides the much-needed support but also brings out the ability in disability through its various creative programs and support networks for people with intellectual challenges. I view the L’Arche community as a family, and I truly feel that I belong to this family.
During my time at L’Arche, I connected with core members and noticed their absence when they were not around. Together, we took walks to enjoy the city views and cruise ships, shared snacks and cups of tea, played games, watched movies, and baked healthy cookies with Krista, Adrian, and Sarah. We celebrated many occasions, laughed at jokes, and showed empathy when a core member was not at their best. All these moments contributed to building meaningful relationships. I also supported core members living independently and at McKim House, and I had the chance to create art with them at Creative Connections.
Creating artwork with my friends at Creative Connections has been an incredible experience. It feels relaxing, refreshing, and entertaining, and I’ve learned so much from them. Working with the staff has been a privilege. I truly appreciate the teamwork among the assistants, and it felt like working alongside my sisters. The regular praises and expressions of appreciation made me feel loved and valued.
In summary, I encourage everyone to provide the necessary support to organizations like L’Arche, which render selfless services for vulnerable members of our society. Financial support, moral encouragement, and volunteer efforts are vital in helping this non-profit organization fulfill its mission and goals.
Anifat Raji
Human Service Practitioner
NBCC student in field placement at L'Arche Saint John