A beautiful sunny day on May 5th brought together nearly 300 people to support our community during our milestone fundraising event. Participants strolled and rolled down the Transcona Trail, visited over burgers, danced to live music, took home prizes and enjoyed a dance performance by our L’Arche community members. “I just find it a deeply joyful event,” shared one participant- appreciating the ways the gifts of our core members were celebrated through were artwork, volunteering, leading prize draws and performing alongside the live band.

But why do we walk together?

Julie Rempel (L’Arche Spiritual Life Coordinator), has been walking with L’Arche for over 13 years. “It was exciting for me because I’ve seen the changes over the years… seeing that progression of how [the walk] has grown; Gina & LeeAnn Enjoying the Live Music Together we raised over $51,000, which will make a huge difference in how that spirit of community continues, and how there’s new life as well,” she shared. “The highlight is seeing people as you walk- that engagement is so much fun because people are so joyful… and the outdoor part of it brings the joy of the springtime and new life along with it as well.” She explained how she walked and talked with a variety of different people along the way- friends, community members, and assistants and their families.

“That movement of friendship is kind of a metaphor for how we are in community… This movement of touching each others’ lives at L’Arche. I think of this Biblical quote- ‘In Him we live and move and have our being’- and I just feel that that spirit of God was present on that day and within the community.”

Together we raised over $51,000, which will make a huge difference in sustaining and growing our community over the year ahead! We are so grateful to Vickar Automotive Group and numerous other sponsors for your incredible support through the years; for the dozens of volunteers who gave your time and energy to make this event happen, and to all the participants who came out to show your support. As we dream about our community’s future, it is deeply meaningful to know that our larger L’Arche family is here, walking alongside us for the journey. We really are all in this together, and for that we are incredibly grateful.

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Recognized by co-workers and supervisors as an example of a good employee, Michael’s strong sense of discipline and work ethic brought him fulfillment as a worker.  According to his long-term friend Petra, “Michael would never miss a day of work unless he was extremely sick. He knew his team was counting on him to do the job, and he felt committed to it.” His role as a contributing member of his team and in society at large boosted Michael’s confidence, which motivated him to do his best as a worker.

Petra also remarks that “through his dedication to work, Michael expressed immense gratitude for creating a life in which he feels valued and his voice heard. Retirement is a great accomplishment for him.”

Beyond work, Michael actively participates in the community and treasures his feeling of belonging. He enjoys taking part in committees, councils, and meetings at L’Arche Winnipeg. He values the opportunity to share his thoughts, vote, and hold people accountable – while always expressing concern for everyone’s wellbeing.

“We need to stay put,” – another common sentence from Michael, expresses his ongoing interest to make sure that the community members are well.

At work and in our community, Michael is considered a caring, understanding, and helpful person. His personality shines through his friendships and on occasions when he is asked to express his opinions. Michael’s sense of humour is also highly appreciated among the people in his life.

“He is a very funny person! He has this witty sense of humour and a quick response when interacting with people. He has always brought so much fun into any group just by being himself,” said Petra.

Last July, the entire community gathered in a lovely outdoor setting to celebrate his retirement and his 65th birthday. It was an extraordinary afternoon for Michael. He wore a birthday hat and made a speech about his achievement and how happy he was for “getting the work done.” When asked how he feels about being retired, Michael’s answer was “I’m retired now; I had to load trucks and keep the place running. Now, I don’t have to worry anymore!”

We celebrate Michael’s transition from the workforce group into the retiree group. Furthermore, we celebrate Michael for being who he is – a wonderful individual who shares his gifts and love with everyone around him.

Happy retirement, Mike.

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