Daily Life of an Assistant (Direct Support Worker)
The key to life in L’Arche is being open to relationship. Assistants (Direct Support Workers) and core members (people with intellectual disabilities) create home and share their lives together in households of eight to ten people.
Days are filled with the ordinary tasks of daily living: personal care, cooking, cleaning, laundry, shopping, accompanying people to medical appointments, attending regular community meetings and events. Home life is the cornerstone of L’Arche. The evening meal, birthdays, and times of prayer are small but cherished celebrations that strengthen the bonds between people who live and work together.
Assistants (Direct Support Workers) come with a broad range of backgrounds and qualifications. We are in particular looking for an educational background in Developmental Services (DSW), Social Services (SSW), or Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) and/or 2+ years of experience in the Developmental Services Sector. All new assistants participate in a program of orientation and training. Compensation, benefits, days away and vacation time are provided.
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