Nonprofits rarely, if ever, turn into overnight success stories.
Stability can take years as nonprofits work to earn trust with communities and steadily raise funds.
A Faith Leader in Northern Virginia
Reverend Monsignor Bob Cilinski, known by many as Father Bob, joined the Gabriel Homes board of directors in 1990. Many adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) faced, and continue to face, long waitlists for independent homes. Fr. Bob educated himself on systemic barriers for adults with IDD and raised awareness of them in Reston. His greatest challenge on the board was expanding Gabriel Homes’ services so more adults with IDD could enjoy independent lives.
“We had two homes when I joined the board, and we wanted to do everything we could to provide independence to more families. Our goals were to purchase more homes, develop our programs and staff, and find ways residents could be more involved in the community.”
The board, which included the faith leader in Virginia, agreed that sharing Gabriel Homes’ story with the community was the best way to fundraise and expand. The Gabriel Homes golf tournament spread the word about the organization and joined the community for a common cause. Golfers saw the impact of their donations when they met the residents on the course. The golf committee, which included Fr. Bob, helped grow the fundraiser into a flagship event by adding more sponsors, volunteers, and golfers over time.
Fr. Bob stepped down from the board after 33 years. The faith leader continues his work as a pastor at Nativity Catholic Church in Burke, Virginia.
During Fr. Bob’s tenure, Gabriel Homes grew from two homes to six and from five residents to 25. The board added diverse leaders like direct support professionals, accountants, and tradespeople. In recognition of his commitment to our residents, Gabriel Homes inducted the Virginia faith leader into the Hall of Fame in 2023.
Seeing the residents live their dreams was Fr. Bob’s favorite achievement on the board.
Fr. Bob saw the residents lead faith groups and make lifelong friends. Residents became more confident and self-assured by becoming team leaders at their jobs and Special Olympics champions on the field.
“I wear the title Father proudly above all the other titles I have been given,” Father Bob said. “Our residents have earthly fathers, and Catholic residents have priests. No matter their faith or parish, residents know they have a spiritual father with me.”