Today we’d like to introduce you to Laura Steed Lorino.
Hi Laura Steed Lorino, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
We began hosting community events and programs for adults with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) on a regular basis in the fall of 2021. This initiative marked a significant step in our journey at L’Arche North Carolina, allowing us to foster deeper connections within our community.
Our mission has always been about creating inclusive environments, and these events provided an opportunity for people to come together, share experiences, and celebrate each other’s unique gifts. As we expanded our offerings, we saw how meaningful interactions can break down barriers and build lasting friendships.
Since then, we’ve grown our programs, ensuring that everyone—core members and community members alike—can thrive in a supportive and loving atmosphere. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, and we’re continually inspired by the joy and connection that emerge when we embrace our shared humanity. We are also about to open our first home in Durham, providing a residential community for adults with and without I/DD.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to further develop these initiatives and continue nurturing a community where everyone feels they belong.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road, but the challenges have shaped us and strengthened our community. One significant struggle has been securing the necessary funding to sustain our programs and expand our reach. We’ve worked hard to create partnerships and raise awareness, but financial stability is an ongoing concern.
Another challenge has been building awareness and understanding within the broader community. Educating people about the value of inclusion and the unique gifts that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities bring can sometimes be met with resistance or misconceptions. However, we’ve seen great progress as we engage in open conversations and share our experiences.
Additionally, navigating the complexities of staffing has been a hurdle. Finding dedicated individuals who share our mission and values is crucial, yet it can be difficult in a competitive job market.
Despite these challenges, each obstacle has taught us resilience and creativity. The support we’ve received from our community has been invaluable, and it continually motivates us to push forward and enhance our programs. Ultimately, the struggles have deepened our commitment to our mission and strengthened the bonds within our community.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
We’re particularly known for our strong emphasis on community and relationships. Our approach fosters genuine friendships between core members and assistants, breaking down barriers and building a sense of belonging. Through regular community events, workshops, and collaborative projects, we create spaces where everyone can contribute their unique talents and learn from one another.
One of our proudest achievements has been the development of our arts program and our “Together” events in downtown Raleigh. These events not only showcase the creative abilities of our core members but also foster connections between people of all backgrounds. By inviting the wider community to participate, we create opportunities for dialogue and understanding, celebrating the beauty and diversity that everyone brings to the table.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
The most important quality that contributes to our success at L’Arche North Carolina is a genuine commitment to inclusivity and community. This foundational value drives everything we do, from how we interact with one another to the programs we create.
By fostering an environment where everyone feels valued and heard, we encourage authentic relationships between core members and assistants, as well as with the wider community. This sense of belonging not only enriches individual lives but also strengthens our collective mission.
Additionally, adaptability plays a crucial role in our success. We embrace the unique needs and aspirations of our community, allowing us to grow and evolve in meaningful ways. Together, these qualities create a vibrant atmosphere where everyone can thrive, and they are key to our ongoing impact and legacy.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://larchenc.org/
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/larchenc/
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/larchenorthcarolina
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/larchenorthcarolina/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@larcheNC
