Elaine Bickel, Leslie Kane, Gary Le Francois, and Jack Mannion announced they will finish their service on the Gabriel Homes Board of Directors at the end of 2025.
With over 36 years of combined service, the four leaders of the board helped drive the strategy for Gabriel Homes’ growth, modernize policies as it grew, and, most importantly, met the changing needs of our residents.
Committee Roles
Bickel and Mannion served on the executive committee, the former serving as treasurer. Le Francois chaired the infrastructure committee, and Kane served on the development committee. Their service helped Gabriel Homes grow into one of the largest nonprofits serving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in Northern Virginia.
As they step away from the board, the four reflect on their time on the board and Gabriel Homes’ exciting future...
Elaine Bickel:
“Gabriel Homes does a fantastic job with the residents. Our homes show that our residents can do more than people think! I did the bookkeeping in the ‘90s, and I returned in 2016 to help with financial planning and transparency, oversight, and accountability.
“Today, Gabriel Homes has grown tremendously into a strong nonprofit. Our board has met the growing needs by bringing new perspectives into leadership. Since we are evolving, we’ve codified modern bylaws and policies. That way, potential donors can see that Gabriel Homes is up to date with the current trends of large organizations.
“Any organization should have limits for board members. Since serving nine years ago, I’ve reached my natural limit. Officers on any board need to find their successors, and Sarah Carwile is exceptionally qualified with her background in nonprofit auditing. I’m proud of where Gabriel Homes is and am excited for what’s ahead.”
Leslie Kane:
“I’m proud to have followed in the footsteps of my dad, Patrick Kane, who was one of the founders of Gabriel Homes more than 40 years ago. Continuing our family’s legacy of commitment to this incredible organization has been deeply meaningful to me.
“One of my greatest joys during my time on the board has been leading the marketing committee and helping guide the rebranding of Gabriel Homes. From developing our updated logo to supporting the creation of our new website, it has been an honor to shape how we present our mission to the community. I am passionate about spreading awareness of the vital work Gabriel Homes does, and it has been truly rewarding to help expand our reach.
“Although I won’t be supporting Gabriel Homes as a member of the board moving forward, I will always be spreading the word, championing the mission, and sharing the impact Gabriel Homes has on adults of all abilities.
“As I step away at the end of the year, I am grateful for the friendships, the shared dedication to our mission, and the opportunity to contribute to a future where adults of all abilities enjoy independence. Gabriel Homes will always hold a special place in my heart.”
Gary Le Francois:
“Serving on the Gabriel Homes board of directors has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. Since 2013, I’ve spent thousands of hours maintaining our homes so they are safe, comfortable spaces for adults with IDD. Overseeing renovations and handling everyday repairs, I’ve focused on doing the work right and saving the organization money wherever possible. My proudest achievement has been ensuring the homes have the same care, attention, and respect that anyone would want for their family.
“I’m confident that Gabriel Homes is in a strong position for the future. My move away from the board is possible because Gabriel Homes has committed leadership, a clear plan for upkeeping, and a culture that values our residents’ dignity. I am proud to have helped build that foundation.”
Jack Mannion:
“Serving on the Gabriel Homes Board of Directors has been a privilege and honor. While I may have served the residents, they have given me far more in return. Getting to know them and seeing their kindness, creativity, and talents has been a lasting blessing.
“I am proud of many accomplishments during my time on the board, including the creation of a scholarship program to make our services more inclusive and the formation of the volunteer Gabriel Homes Work Crew (GHWC). The GHWC has performed repairs and upgrades to our homes, such as replacing ceiling fans, electrical outlets, and decks. Major renovations, like landscaping, kitchen, and bathroom projects, have only made the homes safer and more comfortable.
“The future is bright for Gabriel Homes because of the dedication and talent of our board and staff, who always prioritize the residents’ needs first. The emergence of the Caregivers’ Support Group will become a valuable resource for input and ideas to improve Gabriel Homes’ services.
“Most of all, the residents make Gabriel Homes the home of independence and possibility. They define and continually shape the heart and future of Gabriel Homes.”