A Look at the First Half of the Year in Our Homes

St. Joseph House core members have been thrilled to settle into their new home! John has mastered the elevator, and Noah will be the first to share how much easier it is to navigate the wide halls with his wheelchair. Anders decorates the home for all seasons, and Johno loves to help out in the new kitchen.

St. Joseph House has a large open dining room and living room, so the home has hosted Soup Nights and Celebration Nights. Our community gatherings comfortably fit everyone!

Anders, John, and Noah have belonged to L’Arche for years, but this is the first time they all live in the same home. Johno joined L’Arche in December and has become the perfect fourth core member for the home. He is slowly turning the household into wrestling fans. Together, the four share in prayer, laughter, and many meals.

This winter, Angel House welcomed two new core members, Iggy and Stephan, as well as a Dianna, an international volunteer. The home’s seasoned core members, Christianne and David, enjoy game nights as a way to get to know the new core members. Uno has become a particular favorite at the home.

During this season of change, a familiar face, Bernie, has provided much-needed comfort. Bernie, a seasoned carpenter to Angel House, is currently back sanding doors to be restained. He prioritizes connecting with the household, even joining them for meals. Recently, Bernie went the extra mile by buying a Michael Jackson CD for Christianne after she misplaced hers.

Angel House has been filled with warmth and excitement over the past few months as everyone adjusts to recent changes. The home’s core members have found joy in art, especially projects including glitter. They look forward to going on walks together to nearby parks as the weather gets warmer.

In both a literal and metaphorical sense, Peace House has been in a process of rebuilding over the past few months. Inspired by elements at Saint Joseph House, the kitchen and first floor bathroom are being renovated to provide core members to improve accessibility. We are also adding a home office. L’Arche friends have come together to provide core members with fresh, hot meals.

The house dynamics have also undergone a process of rebuilding. Andrea joined Peace House in December as one of L’Arche’s four new core members. Her presence has brought much laughter and joy to the house. Davey relocated to Peace House this winter. He has grown fond of the assistants and enjoys being able to walk to the office when the weather permits. 

The new group of four core members, Andrea, Casey, Davey, and Jean, have built a small family. They enjoy going on outings together, playing games, and watching television.

Friendship House is the only L’Arche home that has not changed core members over the past few months. Chris, Lisa and Tim have grown to be a strong trio. The home enjoys crafts and movie nights together. Notably, Tim and Lisa banded together with Paula and Stephanie, assistants, at Marquette University’s Career Fair in Milwaukee to share about L’Arche.

The home was thrilled to welcome Francesca, an international volunteer, this winter. The home was also happy to welcome Derby who is the cat of Ethan, House Coordinator for a day visit. 

To stay joyful during the winter months, Chris visited the Willis Tower with Evangeline, Director of Care. Meanwhile, Lisa welcomed Andrea, one of our new core members, with a trip to Kirbi Coffee. And of course, Tim, our star, made a special appearance on WGN Channel 9, showcasing his work with Arts of Life.