Why one family is investing in The Virginia Home:
Seven years ago, resident Frank Smith first learned about The Virginia Home through his father, Frank Smith Sr. After taking a tour together, both men were deeply impressed.
In 2019, Frank, better known as “Champ” by his dad, moved in. “The rest is history,” he says.
For Frank, The Virginia Home has become exactly what its name promises—a home. It’s where he has built friendships, found greater independence, and created the life he always wanted. “I’ve made friends and I’m able to live the life I always wanted to live,” Frank says. “I can do my own thing and spend time with friends.”
One friendship in particular changed everything. “When I first came here, I kept to myself. I didn’t know what to expect,” he recalls. “Then I met Jeff. He showed me the ropes and told me what life was like here. He became my best friend. I owe a lot to him.” That sense of belonging has opened doors to new opportunities. Frank now works at MedRVA and has experienced adventures he never imagined possible.
“I didn’t think I would ever go to Disney World,” he says. “I went my first year here. I couldn’t believe it. I was speechless.”
For his father, seeing his son continue to be successful has been especially meaningful. “After eighty years it became very difficult for me to be a caregiver,” he says. But family remains at the center of their lives. Although The Virginia Home is where Frank lives, the Smiths continue to spend time together every week.
“Family is important,” says Frank’s father. “He lives here and this is home, but our home is his home too.” Now, father and son are looking toward the future.
The Virginia Home’s expansion will allow the organization to serve 30 more families and add a day program, creating opportunities for even more people to experience the same sense of independence, belonging, and community that Frank has found.
“It means I can do a lot more activities,” Frank says of a new, larger home. “Access to shops and restaurants. More opportunities to be out in the community. It will be neat to have a larger family. I look at the people here as one big happy family.” Frank’s father believes the community has an important role to play in making that vision a reality.
“It’s important for The Virginia Home to tell their story, “He says. “I stepped forward because I love my son. This new facility will be invaluable to an all-inclusive community.” He also believes in the organization’s future. “I believe in the mission and the longevity of The Virginia Home,” he says. “You can’t come here and not fall in love with it.”
Having the ability to help made his decision an easy one. “I was happy to support the project because I have the resources,” he says. “I want to see it succeed.”