Hi Gannon Family !
My name is Chantel, and I’m a second-year Legal Studies and Criminal Justice major. This is my second ABST trip, and I’m also excited to be serving as one of the student leaders for this year’s L’Arche, Canada experience. Being able to return in a leadership role feels both meaningful and full-circle, and I’m looking forward to this experience with such an amazing group.
Day one officially kicked off as we left Erie full of energy, laughter, and a shared excitement for the week ahead. For some of us, crossing the border into Canada was a brand-new experience. There were definitely a few nervous smiles as we pulled up, but we made it through smoothly and celebrated our first little win together as a team.
Our first stop was Niagara Falls on the Canadian side, and it did not disappoint. The area surrounding the Falls was lively and full of character with lots of colorful shops, fun attractions, and a buzzing plaza atmosphere. And then there were the Falls themselves, which was absolutely beautiful to see in person. Seeing them partially frozen was something really neat and something you don’t get to see often. We took it all in, snapped plenty of pictures, and enjoyed simply being present in such a beautiful place.
Afterward, we headed to the Rainforest Café, which was an experience in itself. From the moment we walked in, it felt like something fun and in somewhat kind of way in another world. The jungle-themed décor, animal sounds, and lively atmosphere made it a fun and memorable lunch stop. It was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation before continuing our journey.
On our way to Hamilton, we made a stop at the original Tim Hortons. Of course, we couldn’t pass that up! Coffee and sweet treats in hand, we officially felt welcomed into Canadian culture. Once we arrived at our partner site, we had the opportunity to sit down, connect, and learn more about L’Arche, their mission, and the history of their community in Hamilton. It was grounding and inspiring to hear about the heart behind the work we’ll be part of this week.
After settling into our sleeping spaces and organizing our plans, we set out for groceries—which turned into its own adventure. From milk sold in bags to different pricing and brands, it was a reminder that even everyday tasks can feel new and eye-opening in a different country. We embraced it with curiosity (and a few laughs).
We ended the night the best way possible, sharing a meal together, reflecting on the day, giving positive shoutouts, and closing with a big group hug. It was a good reminder that stepping outside of our comfort zones often leads to the most meaningful experiences. Day one showed us that even in new and unfamiliar spaces, we can create joy, connection, and lasting memories.
Stick around for more updates from the 2026 ABST Canada L’Arche Trip Crew, we’re just getting started!
