WHAT IS AN ASSISTANT?

L’Arche assistants are highly trained direct support professionals. L’Arche is unique because many of the direct support professionals live in the homes with the core members, the adults with intellectual disabilities. The friendships formed are genuine and mutual, and special because beyond your role as a direct support professional, you are a housemate and a community member with those with disabilities. You share daily life with others with and without intellectual disabilities—eating dinner together, watching television, going to the gym or up the street for a coffee. You support each other to be in healthy relationships, to make progress in your goals, and live full and healthy lives. L’Arche NC is an intentional diverse community of people from various backgrounds and beliefs.

What would I be doing?

When those with intellectual disabilities (core members) in the homes need support at doctors’ appointments, with medication administration, banking, and shopping, assistants are trained to support them. Assistants help with the implementation of occupational, physical, and behavioral therapies and maintain records and paperwork in compliance accreditation and state licensing. You care for the homes, grocery shop, prepare meals and provide the necessary transportation for community integration.

There is no one profile of a person qualified to be a L’Arche assistant. People join us from many different backgrounds and walks of life. L’Arche North Carolina will provide you with the necessary training to thrive in your role, as well as on-going development as it relates to both your role as a direct support professional and life in an intentional community.

Many L’Arche assistants live and work in L’Arche for a year or two. Some renew their commitment at the end of that time, and some build long-term homes in L’Arche.