Many service models are available to those with mental disabilities. Some of these models offer supportive living and some degree of integration into the general community. What is particularly innovative in the L’Arche model is that our supportive living is communal, relational and reciprocal. In our model, the core members, those with mental disabilities, are equally responsible to the best of their abilities, for creating home, sharing and nurturing faith, welcoming guests, witnessing peace and friendship. They attend and host regional, national and even international gatherings of the larger L’Arche. These qualities are fundamental to L’Arche and require financial resources beyond the core members’ means.
Financial donors participate in our mission in a very vital way. They underwrite the activities that make L’Arche a home rather than a typical residential supported living site. There are many ways you can assist us:
- Attend or sponsor one of our upcoming events to announce L’Arche and raise funds
- Pledge a certain dollar amount to L’Arche. You may complete the pledge in increments over one or more years. For example, if a dozen supporters pledge $2,000 each over the next two years, we will be able to replace our small sedan.
- Become a subscription donor contributing a regular amount each month. For example, $25 per month means one of our core members would be able to attend a L’Arche retreat or gathering.
- Donate appreciated stock, bonds or other financial instruments. We are happy to work with your financial and tax advisors to make sure you realize all tax benefits.
- Support our long range vision. Make L’Arche Chicago a beneficiary of your IRA, will, life insurance policy or retirement annuity, or the remainderman on your trust. We are happy to work with you and your financial or legal advisor.
- Make an in-kind donation of a vehicle, appliance or household, sports or recreational item. For instance, we’d really like to have several house bicycles so that assistants can accompany our core members on the trail. See our Wish List for other suggestions.
- As a part of L’Arche’s national and international federation, our core members and accompanying assistants travel--one of the things that sets us apart from typical group homes--consider donating airline miles or gas cards.
- Our core members have many interests. Please consider donating the opportunity to enjoy one of Chicago’s fine museums, sporting or cultural events by donating a membership or event ticket.
To participate in our mission as a financial donor, please begin by contacting us. We encourage you to come to our next Community Night or one of our events so that you can get to know the mission first hand and so that we can get to know you as a friend.
We can accept financial support by mail, electronically thru PayPal (click button below) or in person. L’Arche Chicago is a registered 501(c) 3. All donations, whether financial or in-kind as well as the cost of attending any L’Arche Chicago event are tax deductible. |
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