Over 40 million U.S. adults say they have no close friends. 1 in 4 people with intellectual disabilities don’t have a single friend.
We’ve heard a lot about the loneliness epidemic, but we don’t often talk about the solutions. As L’Arche, we have a response: relationships between people with and without disabilities.
We don’t pretend to be the solution to loneliness, but we know that relationships across difference–whatever those differences may be–heal and transform us.
We’ve heard a lot about the loneliness epidemic, but we don’t often talk about the solutions. As L’Arche, we have a response: relationships between people with and without disabilities.
We don’t pretend to be the solution to loneliness, but we know that relationships across difference–whatever those differences may be–heal and transform us.
*The same advice applies if trying to make friends with someone very different from you.
Tell us what this film meant to you, what happened when you shared it, or your own story of friendship across difference. Leave a message below or write to communications@larche-gwdc.org.
There’s no quick fix, but here’s some advice from L’Arche Members*
1. Introduce yourself.
2. Go somewhere like a church, sports club, art class, or a park.
3. Stick your hand out and say hello.
4. Be nice. Be polite & friendly.
5. Greet people. (Are you noticing a trend?) Connect with everyone!
6. Find something in common. Complimenting others is a good conversation starter.
7. When you feel lonely, try to remember that other people feel that way too–it helps you reach out to someone to make a connection.
8. Call someone and talk about things. Take someone out to dinner.
9. Say hello to someone. Spend money.
10. Keep trying. Friends give you peace.
*The same advice applies if trying to make friends with someone very different from you.
Tell us what this film meant to you, what happened when you shared it, or your own story of friendship across difference. Leave a message below or write to communications@larche-gwdc.org.
Introduce yourself here or call (202) 232-4539.
Join one of our events! Click here for the latest invites.
L’Arche International – There are L’Arche communities all over the world! Find one near you.
The Arc – We’re grateful to partner with the disability advocacy work of our national and local chapters.
Best Buddies – An international organization devoted to building friendships across difference and supporting people with disabilities.
Special Olympics – Looking for a sports group to join? Special Olympics has teams and events all over the world.
Our Stomping Ground – A local organization strengthening neighborhoods through affordable housing and interability social spaces.
