The International Federation of L’Arche Communities is incorporated in France, with main offices in Paris and in Montreal, Canada. The Federation is governed by a General Assembly composed of representatives from its more than 135 member communities, each of which, including L’Arche Greater Washington, DC, is incorporated, governed, and operated independently; and by an international board of directors. The General Assembly meets once every three years, in different cities around the world. The 2008 General Assembly was held in Calcutta, India. The Federation General Assembly adopted the following Mission and Identity Statement at its 2005 General Assembly, which was held in Assissi, Italy.

Identity Statement

We are people with and without intellectual disabilities,
sharing life in communities belonging to an International Federation.

Mutual relationships and trust in God are at the heart of our journey together.

We celebrate the unique value of every person
and recognise our need of one another.

Our mission is to...

Make known the gifts of people with intellectual disabilities,
revealed through mutually transforming relationships.

Foster an environment in community that responds to the changing needs of our members, while being faithful to the core values of our founding story.

Engage in our diverse cultures, working together toward a more human society.

Also see: Charter of the Communities of L'Arche