Michele Bolos
Michele Bolos, founder of Next Tier Concepts, is the chair of the Gabriel Homes Board of Directors.
First Impressions
When I first joined the Gabriel Homes board, I expected to support an organization providing residential services to adults with developmental disabilities. What I didn’t fully anticipate was how deeply rooted the mission is in every aspect of the organization. The compassionate staff, the families’ dedication, and the strong focus on resident’s growth and dignity all reflect the commitment to independence for everyone.
Over time, I’ve seen Gabriel Homes grow not just in services but in impact.
We’ve become more intentional about advocacy, expanded our community presence, and continued evolving our programs to meet increasingly complex needs. I’ve also watched our leadership grow more strategic, while never losing sight of the heart of the work: the residents.
My understanding of what board service meant has also changed.
I initially thought of it as governance and oversight. I now see that it includes a fiduciary responsibility to our donors and a partnership in our fundraising efforts. Throughout our community, our leaders are ambassadors for an organization that truly changes lives.
Leadership and Board Governance
As I became more involved with Gabriel Homes and took on a leadership role on the board, my focus shifted toward strengthening our governance. I’ve worked to ensure that our policies and practices are clearly defined and well documented. When the board installs its next chair, my goal is to leave knowing that strong processes are in place to sustain the mission consistently, effectively, and with lasting impact.
If you’ve ever considered serving on a board, now is a great time to explore the opportunity.
Board service is a meaningful way to give back, share your skills, and help shape the future of a mission-driven organization. Whether you have experience in finance, advocacy, fundraising, or simply a passion for making a difference, your perspective matters. You don’t need to have all the answers, just a willingness to learn, engage, and contribute.