AMBER'S JOURNEY BEGINS

About two months ago, Tim sat next to Amber, our newest Core Member, at a birthday celebration. They laughed, talked about her day, and, of course, strategized on who would snag the biggest slice of cake. Then, with a big smile, she said, "You gonna be there on November 14?"

"Um... what's happening that day?" Tim asked, puzzled.

Amber beamed, her voice filled with pride: "It'll be my one-year anniversary at L'Arche. We're gonna have a party."

Tim felt a lump in his throat. Just weeks earlier, we said goodbye to John, our founding Core Member. John taught us how to provide the kind of complex care that made welcoming Amber possible. His legacy was alive in her smile.

But Amber's journey to L'Arche was far from simple. She spent five years in a nursing home prior to L'Arche, starting at age 19. Alone and isolated, she endured the pandemic with little hope of community connection.

Then, everything changed.

Eighteen months ago, Nina, a key leader at our Clairemont House, met Amber for the first time at the nursing home where she’d been languishing for the last five years. After their visit, Nina turned to Matthew, our Director of Residential Services, and said, “We have to get her out of there.”

Amber was funny, smart, and full of potential, but life had taken a deeply unfair turn. At just 19 years old, with no other options, she ended up in a nursing home. She was starving for connection, for community—for a place where she could truly belong.

But bringing Amber to L’Arche wasn’t going to be easy. She needed complex care and deep support. Would we be able to give her what she needed?

When Amber moved into L’Arche after languishing in a nursing home for five years, it wasn’t an immediate success. It was hard—really hard. For her and for us. There were days when I wasn’t sure if it would work.

But through grit, determination, and God’s grace, Amber and the L’Arche community kept saying “yes” to learning and growing together. We made mistakes, gave each other permission to be imperfect, and kept moving forward.

And as the weeks turned into months, something incredible began to happen. Amber started to thrive. She discovered her place within the community, and the community discovered her gifts.

On November 14, Amber celebrated her one-year anniversary at L'Arche. It was a momentous occasion after a very long and challenging year (see parts 1-3 of the story for more!).  Both houses gathered for the occasion, and it was a beautiful testament to what community can accomplish. 

There were hugs, laughter, and words of affirmation. Nina, who had first met Amber and championed her journey to L'Arche, shared heartfelt remarks: "I am so happy to get to know you. Each day, I'm happy to come to work and wake you up. Happy Anniversary, Amber. I love you."

Amber, who had once been isolated and alone, was now surrounded by a community that celebrated her for who she is. She found her place—and we found her. 

And it's all possible because of you. 

Your gift today ensures more people like Amber find love, support, and belonging at L'Arche Atlanta. Together, we transform lives. 

Community Moments