We are particularly grateful that they decided to leave their well-established lives in France to assist us in the growth we wish to achieve over the course of the next two years. L’Arche Comox Valley is still a probationary member of the Federation and we have a number of critical tasks that we must achieve before we are accorded full community status.

Christine brings a depth of experience in L’Arche internationally that will help guide us through these tasks. She has lost no time in working with us to address them. Among them is restructuring our financial arrangements, achieving greater financial stability, implementing the new L'Arche Canada Compensation policy, the membership process, establishing an effective Community Council and embarking on the Commitment and Belonging process.

Herve´ managed a L’Arche workshop in France that provided facilities for people with developmental disabilities from several local towns to be creatively employed. L’Arche Comox Valley has been running an Outreach Centre for the last three years that attracts between 15 and 20 people with disabilities several days each week to engage in painting, pottery, card-making and the enjoyment of being together.

It has been apparent that we need other activities to provide greater variety but the space we currently have will accommodate neither the numbers coming nor the activities we would like to develop. We are looking to expand and Herve’s experience will be a great asset in getting these new programs off the ground. The Monier’s children are enrolled in the Comox French school and are excited to be living so close to the sea and in a setting so different from their home in France.

Christine and Herve’s knowledge, energy and commitment to L’Arche is already having a decisive impact.

Tony Reynolds
L’Arche Comox Valley
Board President