Hello L’Arche Friends –
Recently, I was driving one of our Core Members to one of his regular weekly activities. The moment he got in the car, he looked at me, beaming, and said, “I’m happy!”
I smiled and replied, “Right on!”
Without missing a beat, he declared again: “I’m happy! I’m with my friend. The sun is shining! God woke me up today! I’m happy!”
That moment has stayed with me ever since. It was simple, profound, and contagious. His joy wasn’t dependent on anything fancy—just friendship, sunshine, and the gift of another day. Since then, I’ve borrowed his exclamation for my own morning mantra. Before checking email or pouring my coffee, I try to begin with those same words:
“I’m happy. I’m with my friends. God woke me up today.”
At L’Arche North Carolina, joy shows up in unexpected places. Since I began working here in 2021, I’ve seen time and again how people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are not only recipients of care, but givers of joy, connection, and purpose. Each of our four Core Members brings light into our community in a way that can’t help but ripple outward.
Everyday moments at the L’Arche house reflect something much deeper: shared meals where someone’s favorite song gets everyone dancing, quiet mornings where Assistants gently help with routines, game nights full of inside jokes. This is not just a place to live—it’s a place where people are truly known, celebrated, and loved.
When we say our house is full, we mean it in every way. It’s full of life. Full of meaning. Full of connection.
That’s what you make possible through your generous gifts and support. And we can’t thank you enough. We’d love to invite you into that joy:
Grow Together: Paint & Plant – May 17th at Bethany UMC: Bring a friend and let your creativity bloom.
Sundaes on Sunday – June 1st at the L’Arche House: Family fun, live music, and an ice cream bar you won’t want to miss.
Summer Movie Nights in Raleigh – Details listed below! Each night has a fun dress-up theme.
If you’ve had a hard week, if the news feels heavy, or if you’re simply looking for community—you’ll find something special here. I hope you’ll join us soon.
Surrounded by joy,
Laura Steed Lorino,
Executive Director & Community Leader
