L'Arche Toronto

L’Arche began in 1964 when Canadian Jean Vanier, who was living in France at the time, invited 3 men from the local institution to live with him. Jean was horrified at the lack of value society held for these men and others like them, and thought a simple life of mutual respect and appreciation might serve them all a bit better. This seed led to the springing up of several homes and communities around the globe, all inspired by Jean’s original human–to-human model. L’Arche today is an international network of over 140 intentional communities in almost 30 countries where people with intellectual disabilities and their assistants live, work, and create home together.

Like all L’Arche communities, L’Arche Toronto was founded on the principles of welcome and inclusion. Our community is composed of members who come from diverse backgrounds – differing in faith, ability, age and culture. At L’Arche Toronto we celebrate the unique contribution that each individual or tradition has to offer; the values of interdependence and respect are an integral part of our life together. Community members celebrate life, share their joys and sorrows, and forgive each other as in a family. Those who live in L’Arche enjoy a simple lifestyle, which gives priority to relationships.

L’Arche Toronto is comprised of 4 homes and one creative arts program located in the city’s Danforth & Riverdale neighbourhoods. Visit us online at http:www.larchetoronto.org and like us on Facebook at http:www.facebook.com/larchetoronto