As we invite people to contribute to our Giving Tuesday campaign, we want to remain grounded in what makes L’Arche Atlanta so unique -- the people who make our community as joyful and authentic as it is! We’ll be sharing some of our favorite stories, as they allow the people most impacted by L'Arche to share firsthand the impact L’Arche has on them.
Stories of Impact: John
John writes a birthday note to his friend, Mark, during a house birthday celebration.
John is one of our Core Members and he brings many gifts to our community including friendship, conversation, and caring!
John, how did you first hear about L'Arche? What made you decide to become involved with the community? I first heard about L’Arche from Curt Armstrong. I went to a community event and met Tim, Jessica, and Sara [the founding house assistants]. Then I moved in August 27, 2012. I moved in here because this is the place I wanted to be. With L’Arche I have opportunities to go more places and the ability to try new things.
What is one of the silliest or happiest L'Arche memories? Playing and joking around with my housemates. I also liked the time we went bowling together right after I moved in. I’d like to do that again sometime. Everybody was having too much fun. One time the L’Arche Jacksonville community visited and we all went bowling together.
L'Arche is all about forming mutually transformative relationships. Can you share a time when you've experienced or witnessed true friendship while in community? I am friends with the people who come to dinner. Michelle comes over on Tuesdays and I like getting to know her.
When I first met Tim, I didn’t know him. We started to build a friendship when I came to visit the house right before I moved in. There was one morning when Tim was on morning routine and I squeezed so much toothpaste on my toothbrush. Tim still likes to talk about my “toothpaste party!” It was everywhere!
Laura comes over on Fridays and I call her my “real friend.” When we first met, I didn’t speak to her. I just walked away to my room. That day, I wasn’t very interested in Laura. We started to have a real friendship after that. She kept coming back for dinner and we got to know each other better.
I met Terry and his sister before I lived at L’Arche. He stayed at my old host home for a little while and we started to become friends. One day we were doing yard work and I could tell Terry was a hard worker. I still see that now! He’s a hard worker and we go waaaay back. I love Terry and he loves me. We have a long friendship history.
"I love Terry and he loves me. We have a long friendship history."
What has been your favorite community event to attend? The birthday bash! And the Valentine’s Day Dance -- this year my girlfriend and I were the first ones on the dance floor! I also love the talent show. This year I did a magic act with Laura and I sang a song.
John, thank you for the awesome presence you are in our community! We love you!
If you are moved by our mission, will you donate $25 or more to our Giving Tuesday campaign? We need your help to open a second L'Arche home!