If you missed the BBQ & Bingo Event last month, you missed a fun celebration! This gathering for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, in support of L’Arche North Carolina, was an incredible event filled with joy and community spirit.

The evening started with the tantalizing aroma of barbecued delights wafting through the air as volunteers served up a delectable feast for all attendees. We are grateful to Southern Harvest Catering and Knucklehead Barbecue for donating the delicious meal.

Families, friends, and supporters gathered together, sharing laughter and stories, creating a warm and inclusive atmosphere. The main highlight of the event was the lively picture bingo games. Our friends, Kyla and Maggie, called out Bingo as participants of all abilities eagerly played, their eyes filled with anticipation. Prizes were won, and cheers of celebration filled the air, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie and encouragement. Our prizes were donated by local restaurants: Namu, Alpaca Charcoal Chicken, and Trophy Brewing.

This event was more than a community gathering… It was a celebration! We celebrated the program space at the Bulla Center, where we hold inclusive and accessible monthly events. One of our friends, Carrie, who we have only met at our virtual sacred space, Y’all Belong Here, traveled all the way from Davidson, NC, to be with us in person. We also celebrated that we are looking for our first L’Arche house! This will be a home where friendships are formed, and every gift is celebrated.

Before we played bingo, we shared a video from L’Arche Atlanta. They recently celebrated their 10th anniversary. At the end of the video, our friend Ricardo says, “Let’s cover [the area] in L’Arche [communities]… you know why? So that all of our fellow citizens, that no matter what disability they have, are not left behind.”

We celebrate that we are a growing community. Where each person is celebrated for who they are and the wonderful gifts they have to share. We look forward to the day when we will celebrate the impact of 10 years of inclusive community. Our hearts are filled with hope and joy. With your help, we will achieve this dream!

Will you commit to supporting our growing community? Make a financial contribution today and help support our inclusive programs as we establish our first L’Arche home (to donate, click here).