Visitation Home, Inc., a Catholic shared living residence for people with developmental disabilities in Hamilton, will host its annual Faithful Friends Gala April 22.

The fundraiser dinner is offered to thank Visitation Home’s many benefactors, and is open to all who wish to attend. This year’s gala will honor Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M.

“We want to show our gratitude to Bishop O’Connell for the kindness he has shown us,” said Vistation Home executive director Denise Reil. “When he came and blessed our third home in 2013, he stayed the entire day … and he was so absolutely at peace and completely present to the residents and the staff. Every time his name is mentioned, the residents recognize it and remember his visit.”

Visitation Home residents have prepared a special spiritual gift for the Bishop, which they will present at the dinner.

The three adjacent homes in Hamilton began as a single house in September 2000, expanding to meet the needs of 15 full-time residents and several day-program attendees. Residents often participate in community activities and dinners, convening in one of the three homes as a group and bonding with the volunteers and live-in staff.

“The staff who live here really want to be here,” Reil said. “They want to see the dignity of every person … and the residents see a person full of joy, grace-filled. The Holy Spirit dwells here; people are motivated by it, and you can sense it.”

The private, non-profit organization does not receive state funding, and depends almost exclusively on donations; the small stipend for rent received from residents does not fully cover operating costs.

“Visitation Home is more than just a group home,” the website describes. “It is a place where many people from diverse backgrounds come and spend time with the residents for meals, prayer, community gatherings, chores and fun activities. Through these interactions a bond is formed, along with a desire to spend more time with the people.  We believe this happens because God has chosen each person who wishes to share time at our homes, to be an important part of our community.”

In addition to donations, Visitation Home benefits from dedicated volunteers, sharing their talents in various capacities.

“When people ask if they can help, I say, ‘well, what are your gifts?’” Reil explained. “One person loves to do laundry, so she comes in and does laundry for the residents. We have young people who come and play games with them … some volunteers read stories, play music, do art projects … I never tell a volunteer ‘no.’”

Tickets for the Faithful Friends gala are $100, and may be ordered at https://2823.sites.ecatholic.com/news-events. For more information or for questions, go to visitationhome.org, email [email protected] or call 609-585-2151 ext. 101.

The gala will be held from April 22 from 7-11 p.m. at Stone Terrace by John Henry’s, 2275 Kuser Rd., Hamilton.