Companies employing adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) boost staff retention and strengthen the economy.
Gabriel Homes residents play critical roles in our workforce.
At Gabriel Homes, all our residents attend work or vocational programs during the day. You might meet residents at places like Walmart, Giant, and Potbelly. Some residents have been at their jobs for decades and have gotten promotions for their hard work. As role models to their coworkers and community, our residents receive endless praise from their managers.
Gabriel Homes spoke with employers and job coaches who work closely with our residents. All had glowing things to say about their work:
Beni Collins, Employment Specialist, Didlake:
“It’s fulfilling to help others succeed at their jobs, like when I work with Dave and John at Walmart. Dave is an ambitious worker and always wants to try something new. In my role, I can be that voice of reasoning and help him navigate his goals. Dave knows he can call or text when he needs mentorship, and I’m proud of how he’s grown.
“John is another rock star at work. There are never any performance issues with his work. I’m there for him when he has questions about his schedule, like when to clock in and out. John’s a first-one-in, last-one-out type of worker, and he’s responsive to timely concerns. Like reaching his 30th anniversary at Walmart, John’s constantly reaching new milestones at work.
“Personally, Dave and John are sweethearts. Both are easy to talk to, and I like learning more about them when we meet. I feel great knowing they keep learning and improving on the job.”
Iisha, Store Manager, Giant:
“Rich is very important at Giant. He runs duties like greeting shoppers, collecting carts, cleaning restrooms, and more. When he comes to work, he’s excited to start the day and is loved by staffers and shoppers.
“He also shows extra thought and care for each customer. Lots of shoppers are friends with Rich because he asks how they and their families are doing. Working at Giant isn’t a job but a passion for employees like Rich.”
Kim Gladney, Project Manager, Goodwill Greater Washington
“Lucy has been on the cleaning team for over 15 years. Since Covid started, she’s been on smaller teams and done extra tasks like wiping doors and disinfecting rooms. Lucy has had to manage a bigger space, but her productivity has been top-notch. There simply aren’t enough workers like her.”
