I realize this comment is coming late as it is almost March but I would recommend that if people want to contribute to these kinds of programs that they find out if there is a way to directly contribute to the clients. This is where the real need is. Most people with developmental disabilities survive on SSI of about $600 a month. L’Arche collects most of this from the client and leaves the client with about $55 a month to spend on things such as clothing, entertainment, toiletries, furniture, anything extra, etc.

And to add a note for clarity, Cerebral Palsy is considered a developmental disability and can affect a person’s mental capacity although it often does not. It is not fair to disregard this disability as less significant than one that involves a diminished mental capacity. And, Michelle is right, the real movement is out of group situations like this and into normal living situations where clients live and work and play just like the rest of us.

We are part of an international federation of people, with and without developmental disabilities, who share life together in communities. We embrace all races, creeds and ethic groups. Because our members with developmental disabilities are the core of our communities, we call them our “core members,” and those who do not have those developmental disabilities, our assistants. We celebrate the gifts of our core members and assistants and recognize that we need one another for fulfilling lives. We believe that our life together will foster a more human society.

We are not group homes or assisted living facilities; we are not institutions. Other than financial support some of our core members receive from governmental entities, we are self supporting. A great number of our assistants worldwide are volunteers. At our community, our core members and assistants operate a farm and garden where we sell produce, plants, and flowers. Other core members make paper products such as greeting cards, note pads, and other crafts. Still other core members hold jobs in the private sector.

Our board is raising funds to provide retirement options for those assistants who have lived in our community the majority of their adult lives and to pay for the upkeep and improvements of our four homes. We consider anyone who supports us financially as part of our community and all are welcome!

I am happy to answer any questions and I and our community thanks anyone who participates in our mission by supporting us financially.

The burn-out was never physical, but mentally and emotionally. The attachments the clients have on the workers, always being short staffed and having to pull double shifts 4 days out of the week, only having 2 days off a month. It is EXTREMELY difficult to ‘leave your work at work’ when you interact with, and grow to love, the people you work with.

It also takes it’s toll on you when you see the clients whose family doesn’t come to visit. It is heartbreaking!

CP is NOT mental & no doubt you have seen other types of care ie: physical therapy over the years. All types of disabilities are out there and in SOME cases care givers 24-7 are required. Trent will see my reciept today for matching. God Bless you with your life in your world.

I have the patience to care for my daughter, but wow, it takes a special strength and fortitude to care for the developmentally disabled who are not your own kids, or even relatives. These folks are blessings to families like ours

I have been looking for a few places to donate lately. I like the sound of this one.

Thankfully, she has both of my parents who love her and are there for her, but not everyone is in this situation.