Social
Concerns
Summer Fellowship
L’Arche Seattle
Volunteer Non US Citizen
Yes
Categories:
Language Preferences:
Location Details
Description
L’Arche Seattle is a local non-profit and is a part of L’Arche USA/International – a global network of communities that support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). L’Arche Seattle began in 1975 and is currently a thriving community with 10 Core Members (adults with IDD) who live in three different houses in the beautiful neighborhood of Capitol Hill. We are a loving community that reveals the unique contributions of people with disabilities through work, play, and artistic endeavors.
Student Role
The day-to-day role of an Assistant is highly variable and includes the following: Direct care with adults with disabilities, including help with physical activities such as getting ready in the morning, nighttime routine, maintaining personal hygiene, administering medications, meal preparation, etc. Some Core Members may also need assistance in going for walks, taking a trip to the grocery store, or getting to work or a local partner organization. It is important that each member of the community actively participates in cleaning the homes, as well. There will be time spent playing games, assisting with art/creative projects in the Activity Center, and assisting with community events such as dinners, picnics, and days or evenings out around Seattle.
Work Schedule
Because this is a live-in position, shared with several other Assistants, the schedule is highly variable. L’Arche Seattle does ensure that each person works 35-40 hours and has two days off per week.
Orientation
L’Arche orientation is very intensive because of the nature of the work that we do in a vulnerable population. New Assistants will be required to complete a Washington State background check, CPR/First-Aid training, and a training in what it means to be a mandatory reporter. Orientation involves learning the day-to-day routine of the houses and Core Members and shadowing those with more experience.
Housing Information
Live-in Assistants will have one room in a very large home on Capitol Hill in Seattle. They will be living in community with at least 2 other live-in community members without disabilities and 3-4 Core Members. It is key to remember that our homes are the primary homes of the Core Members – some who have lived at L’Arche for 40 years! For this reason, we insist that the cleanliness of each home takes top priority so that all members of the community are being taken care of to the best of our ability.
Other Language Proficiencies
American Sign Language
Drivers License
If the student has a license and is willing.
Start And End Dates
Eight consecutive weeks between May 17 and August 16, 2026.