Living with independence and dignity can make all the difference in someone’s life.
At Gabriel Homes, residential counselors foster a sense of security while guiding residents through new skills and helping them grow more confident in their daily lives.
Years of Impact at Gabriel Homes
Esther Eastman Greene worked at Gabriel Homes for 21 years and came to understand each resident’s strengths and needs.
“Our residents always strive for new goals, so I gently pushed them beyond their comfort zone while meeting them where they were,” said Esther. “I cheered them on when they doubted themselves, and their smiles were wide when they accomplished something new.”
Confidence With Residents
As a residential counselor, staff and residents knew her as a principled, trusted leader.
“The homes are the residents’ homes,” Esther continued. “You don’t feel at home if somebody comes in and takes over. The residents choose their groceries, do their own housework, and spend their free time however they wish.
Residents felt comfortable at home when Esther worked with them. One of Esther’s proudest moments at Gabriel Homes was seeing the residents improve their cooking skills. Esther especially pushed residents when she taught them how to slice onions. Once they could cut on their own, residents took pride in safely preparing new meals for their housemates.
“Esther taught me how to make boiled eggs!” said Rich, a resident at Gabriel Homes. “Her pancakes on Good Friday were incredible. When she wasn’t with us, I was trying to copy her recipe.”
The professional relationships became friendships when Esther was ready to retire. She and the residents grew closer during the height of the pandemic: During staff shortages, Esther stepped in for overnight shifts, and the residents felt safe at home under her leadership.
“Esther was one of the nicest people I ever met!” said Angie (left), a resident at Gabriel Homes. “I felt safe with her during COVID, and she made up fun activities around our home so we never felt lonely.”