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A Brief Overview of L'Arche
Jean Vanier founded the first L’Arche (French for "the ark") community in France in 1964. The L’Arche philosophy focuses on the importance of relationships, respect for each individual, and celebration of each person’s gifts. L’Arche is ecumenical, shaped and guided by the major Christian denominations, but it welcomes and respects each person’s individual faith.
L’Arche believes that to be truly civilized, a society must welcome and respect those who are marginalized. Sadly, few persons with developmental disabilities have a home where they are unconditionally accepted. For those living in boarding homes or institutions, they are treated clinically rather than in a community that recognizes and celebrates their gifts. L'Arche creates communities that nurture and support persons with developmental disabilities and allows them to reach their full potential as members of society.
The International Federation of L’Arche encompasses 130 L’Arche communities in 30 countries, including 16 communities in the United States.
L'Arche Wavecrest
L'Arche Wavecrest is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was established in 1999. The organization formed when Karen Carr (the organization's founding executive director) came back to Orange County, California, after living for five years in a L’Arche community in France.
L'Arche Wavecrest founded Abraham House, the first L’Arche community in California. Abraham House is a home where Core Members (persons with developmental disabilities) live with Assistants (persons without disabilities) and share life together as friends, not as clients and staff.
Please click on the link if you would like to read the Charter of L'Arche.