"There is a chance for you … the biggest thing you could do is try."
This is what Jenny, a participant of the L’Arche Connects outreach program, recently shared with a news reporter on the impact the program has had on her.
The reporter was there to cover the program’s graduation evening, held at the end of June at the Saint John Arts Centre. It marked the conclusion of the six month pilot program consisting of weekly meetups for participants – adults with intellectual disabilities – and family members to learn new skills, knowledge and confidence towards one day living in a place of their own.
Topics from a variety of guest speakers included personal safety, eating healthy on a budget, how to access government programs such as the disability tax credit and more.
The growth in participants’ confidence over the months was amazing to witness. Some were too shy to speak for the first few weeks, but towards the end of the program were singing and dancing at a talent show. One parent reflected, “L’Arche is doing something right, because my son wanted to come every week.”
But the impact of this program was not just on the participants themselves.
One participant and their parents moved to New Brunswick just last year and didn’t know anyone in the area. Within a few months, they got connected to L’Arche through this program, which grew to “feel like a family” to them.
Family members felt a sense of community and support, as well. For some of them, already aging or in poor health, this opportunity to meet other parents navigating the same systems and barriers was a big relief for them, not to mention the emotional support.
My sincere gratitude and admiration to the program’s leader, Jennifer Fabrizi, and assistant, Catherine Kennedy, who curated this program in such an impactful and beautiful way.
Our gratitude to the Department of Social Development for the pilot funding for this program, and to 100 Women Who Care of Greater Saint John for their donation in December to support its sustainability.
We anticipate launching another cohort of L’Arche Connects Outreach in winter 2025. If you or someone you know could benefit from this program, reach out to connects@larchesaintjohn.org.
With gratitude,
Rachel Vander Vennen
Community Leader & Executive Director