A Grateful Goodbye: Reflections on a Life’s Work at Welcome House
After 25 cherished years at Welcome House, it’s time for me to officially say goodbye this summer—not just to a job, but to a place that has been my heart, my soul, and my home.
When I first walked through the doors of Welcome House, (an agency serving persons with developmental disabilities) I was struck by a deep sense of family. It wasn’t just a workplace; it was a community that embraced you, challenged you and celebrated every person—staff and residents alike. That feeling, that spirit, has never left me.
The early years were tough. I stepped into the role of Executive Director knowing we had a lot of work to do—especially around staffing. Finding and retaining qualified, passionate people was a challenge then, and in many ways, it remains one today. But from day one, I knew our success would come down to the people. That’s why I’ve devoted so much of my energy to lifting up Direct Support Professionals. I’ve been proud to help build two organizations—the National Alliance and Ohio Alliance of Direct Support Professionals—that have elevated the profession and given voice to those on the front lines. These workers are the backbone of everything we do, and they deserve every bit of recognition we can give them.
Over the years, I’ve also seen a significant shift in how the broader community views people with developmental disabilities. I remember the pushback in the ‘80s and ‘90s when we were opening group homes in neighborhoods that didn’t yet understand our “why”. Today, those same communities embrace us. That transformation didn’t happen overnight—it took persistence, honesty, and heart. I’m proud to have played even a small part in that evolution.
I didn’t do this alone. I often reflect on two mentors who shaped my leadership before I ever arrived at Welcome House: Burt Rubin and Marianne Levey. Burt taught me how to navigate the complexities of boards and families with grace and diplomacy. Marianne taught me how to listen—really listen—with empathy and insight. Their wisdom lives in me.
Of course, I could never forget the joy. The parties, the bowling banquets, the holiday celebrations—those are the moments I’ll carry with me forever. Watching the people we support come alive during those events gave me a front-row seat to the power of community, of inclusion, of joy in its purest form. I didn’t just lead from an office—I danced, I laughed, I celebrated alongside them.
Even in retirement, I know my work isn’t done. Advocacy works—and I’ll continue to fight for better funding, stronger systems for persons with developmental disabilities, and greater awareness. I’ve seen firsthand what happens when we step up. During a recent state budget cycle, we feared collapse—but by joining forces and speaking up, we helped bring about the most significant increase to DD funding I’ve ever witnessed. That victory wasn’t just policy—it was survival, and it was hope.
And now? Now I get to be “Grandpa”— spending more time with my children and grandchildren, showing up to their games, watching them grow, and being present for the everyday moments I’ve missed. What a gift.
To the staff, the families, the individuals we support: you are etched into my heart. You’ve given me more than I could ever repay.
As I step away from this role, my final hope is that Welcome House continues to grow—stronger, bolder, more impactful than ever before. Let it always stand for hope. Let it always stand for home. Let it stand for FAMILY…
Tony Thomas is executive director of Welcome House, a nonprofit organization in Northeast Ohio providing residential and social services to adults with disabilities focusing on independence and community connections.
See the article posted to Cleveland.com