What is an assistant?
L’Arche assistants are highly trained direct support professionals. L’Arche is unique because our assistants have the opportunity to live in the homes with the adults with developmental disabilities (we call them Core Members). To be a L’Arche assistant is to be a friend. Friendships in L’Arche are genuine, mutual, and meaningful . Assistants live and serve alongside core members to build an intentional and inclusive community where everyone can thrive. We serve one another and learn from each other through daily life. We strive to make the ordinary moments of each day – cooking, going on a walk, attending appointments, going out for coffee – a bit more extraordinary by doing it together. We support each other to be in healthy relationships, to make progress on our goals, and live full and balanced lives. At L’Arche, every person’s gifts are embraced and celebrated.
What would I be doing?
When those with intellectual disabilities (Core Members) in the homes need support at doctors’ appointments, with medication administration, banking, and shopping, assistants are trained to support them. Assistants maintain records and paperwork in compliance with the Department of Developmental Disabilities, and help with implementation of therapeutic interventions. They also care for the homes, grocery shop, prepare meals and provide the necessary transportation for community outings.
