Daily routines might seem meaningless at first.
On one hand, doing the same tasks every day can feel like a chore; on the other, you can find purpose in yourself when you accomplish your to-do list.
Lucy has lived independently at Gabriel Homes since 2009 and is a leader for her housemates. She knows her daily routine like the back of her hand and holds friends and staff accountable for plans. Other occasional tasks like dentist appointments are second nature to Lucy, who can handle many things without on-site support.
Her job at the United States Geological Survey (USGS) is a 10-minute bus ride or one-mile walk from her home. Working as an office cleaner through Goodwill Greater Washington for 15 years, Lucy often takes charge of cleaning routes. She folds her rag into perfect squares before cleaning surfaces, and she can clean the office cafeteria in under 30 minutes.
“There aren’t enough workers like Lucy. Her work ethic and productivity are top-notch, and she’s great at going the extra mile with cleaning.”
When her shift is over, Lucy rides the bus back home and takes a short nap. On Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons, Lucy goes on walks with her neighbors, John and Rich. She lives down the street from the guys, who quickly jump into action when she tells them to grab their shoes. Walks are about a mile and a half long, and Lucy tends to pull ahead of the pack. Lucy waits at different traffic signs so John and Rich can catch up to her.
Her housemates get home later in the evening because they have longer commutes. Everyone spends some time alone in their rooms, unwinding after work, before joining for dinner. The housemate who cooks rotates each evening. When Lucy takes the chef’s hat, she prepares the fan-favorite spaghetti with meatballs and vegetables served with a salad.
