L’Arche springs into action
Springfest raises money to support day programs offered
Springfest is back for another year in Judique and Membertou and it’s one of L’Arche Cape Breton’s biggest fundraisers.
“If we didn’t have springfest that would mean we wouldn’t be able to operate our day programs,” said Josie MacEachern, L’Arche development officer.
Every year the two springfest events raise between $20,000 and $25,000, roughly 35 per cent of the day program operating costs for the organization which helps adults with intellectual disabilities live “meaningful lives.”
Sunday will mark the 10th year for the event in Judique, where it is an auction with music and a three-course meal. It is sold-out.
This will be the eighth year springfest has taken place at the Membertou Trade and Convention Centre. Happening on Saturday, June 2, there will be an auction along with music, desserts, tea and coffee.
“We wanted to do something in Sydney because many of our core members are from the CBRM. It’s nice to be able to maintain that connection,” said MacEachern, who’s been with L’Arche for 15 years.
L’Arche Cape Breton celebrated its 35th anniversary in April. It has grown to six homes in three communities where 25 people with intellectual disabilities live with assistants. These assistants come from around the world.
While the organization gets some government funding to help support the basic needs of core members, there is no funding available for day programs. These programs give members something to do with their days and include both work and recreational activities and include the Sunflower Garden Project, Sunflour Bakery and Old Hen Café and the Angels Loft Project, an art program.
“We help them realize their gifts through our day programs,” said MacEachern.
Another important part of springfest is the video presentation. This year it is a celebration of the past 35 years L’Arche has been operating in Cape Breton and features the organization’s founder, Angus MacInnis.
More information on L’Arche Cape Breton or springfest can be found at larchecapebreton.org or by calling 902-945-2283.
Tickets for the Membertou event can be purchased at the Cape Breton Curiosity Shop or the Cape Breton Centre for Craft and Design, both on Charlotte Street, Sydney.