For many families, choosing a place where their loved ones with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) can truly feel at home is one of the most meaningful decisions they ever make.
At Gabriel Homes, our homes are more than a roof and four walls — it’s a place where residents feel safe, independent, and dignified. A home is the laughter shared with friends, the quiet of a favorite spot to relax, and the reassuring sense of belonging.
No Place Like Home
Gabriel Homes #3, purchased in 1994, has been a reassuring haven for families seeking safe, comfortable, and dignified living for their family members with IDD. Many residents have called the GH3 home since the moment they moved in.
Caryn and Shelby, two residents who have lived at GH3 for over 30 years, spend their mornings drinking coffee on the back porch. Chris and Patrick, on the other hand, throw the football in the yard. On snowy days, Patrick bundles up and lies on the ground to make snow angels.
Independence & Comfort
Another housemate, Sara, agrees with Patrick. She loves how she can spend time on her own at GH3. Her bedroom is on the ground floor, which Sara says allows her to feel independent from those who sleep upstairs.
“My favorite thing to do at home is read my books. It’s easy to read my collection because little noise gets downstairs.”
A Home for People of All Abilities
Gary Le Francois, former director of the infrastructure committee on the board of directors, knows the ins and outs of the home as well as the residents do. Since his son Sam moved into GH3 in 2000, Gary has not only witnessed the home’s transformation — he has also used his decades of experience in the trades to help maintain and renovate it.
“Our homes shouldn’t be maintained any differently because the residents have disabilities. They should look and feel like comfortable, safe homes anybody would walk into.”