Lisa Jacobson (far right), along with Dungarvin CFO Emily Sheevel (far left) and Executive Assistant Jessica Thorson, recently visited Richard Burton at his home in Las Vegas.
Long before Richard Burton became a Dungarvin Nevada Host Home provider, he witnessed something extraordinary. Growing up, Richard watched his grandmother welcome individuals from institutions into her home at a time when doing so was far from common. While society was often separating people with disabilities from their communities, his grandmother was opening her door.
Decades later, Richard is carrying forward that same spirit of compassion by welcoming people with disabilities into his Las Vegas home. And, after spending some time with him, it’s very clear that this is exactly what he was meant to do.
A Place to Be Celebrated
We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Richard and learn more about the life he shares with Alex and Robert, the two individuals he supports.
What struck me most wasn’t simply his dedication or the responsibilities he takes on every day; it was his genuine care and compassion for Alex and Robert. There was nothing rehearsed about the way Richard spoke. His words reflected a deeply personal commitment to ensuring the two men experience something every person deserves: the feeling of being wanted, valued and loved.
During our visit, Richard said something I continue to think about. “I celebrate, not tolerate. If I’m tolerating, something’s wrong.” He went on to explain, “It’s about being celebrated and not tolerated.” Those words speak volumes about his philosophy. Because there is a profound difference between providing someone with a place to live and creating a place where they truly belong.
Richard with Dungarvin Founders Diane and Tim Madden in 2023, when Richard won the ANCOR DSP of the Year Award for Nevada.
The Freedom to Just Be Home
Richard understands that a host home should feel like a home, not an institution. Robert came to live with him after spending time in a more structured group home environment where he didn’t have much freedom to make his own choices. Richard changed that for Robert by carrying out Dungarvin’s mission of “respecting and responding to the choices of people in need of supports.”
“Here, he can make his own decisions,” Richard said. Sometimes, that means deciding when to eat breakfast, or simply how to spend the day. Sometimes, it means sleeping in on Saturday morning.
Strengthening Family Connections
Richard’s approach to supporting others has also been shaped by his experience as a foster parent. He learned early on that supporting someone means recognizing the importance of their family relationships. That understanding has carried into his work with Dungarvin.
Richard has known Alex and his parents for more than a decade. Their relationship is built on communication, trust and a shared commitment to Alex’s well-being. “He sees that connection,” Richard explained, describing how Alex recognizes the positive relationship between his parents and Richard and knows he doesn’t have to choose between the people who love and support him. Instead, he has a network of people working together on his behalf.
Richard also understands that a full life includes fun, traditions and experiences that create lasting memories. One of Alex’s favorite things is Disneyland, and Richard shared that they’ve made visiting the park an annual tradition. It’s another example of how Richard sees the individuals in his home as people with their own interests and dreams.
Richard checks on Harriet.
A Home With an Open Door, and a Turtle Named Harriet
Of course, no visit to Richard’s home would be complete without mentioning another longtime resident. In the backyard lives Harriet, a large turtle who’s lived there for 10 years. Harriet adds a little personality to a home already filled with stories, routines and relationships. And while Harriet may be one of the more unusual residents, she’s a reminder that this is a real home, with its own history and character.
Richard takes tremendous pride in the environment he has created. He also welcomes feedback and visits from those responsible for overseeing services. In fact, he prefers an open-door approach. “It’s not a threat. It is help,” he said, explaining why he welcomes unannounced visits from Dungarvin service coordinators.
Finding His Purpose
At one point during our conversation, I asked Richard a question. “Do you feel like you have found your purpose in life?” He didn’t hesitate. “Absolutely. I feel rewarded because they like me,” he said, talking about Alex and Robert. He reflected on how meaningful it is to share a home where people genuinely want to be together.
Richard acknowledged that some days are tiring and that the responsibilities of providing support don’t disappear when he needs a break. But he also talked about what Alex and Robert bring to his life. “They fulfill a void,” he said. It’s a powerful reminder that relationships are not one-sided. Richard gives his time, energy, compassion and support. But in return, he receives companionship, purpose and a sense of fulfillment. And perhaps that’s what makes his story so special.
A Legacy That Lives On
Richard was named ANCOR’s DSP of the Year for Nevada in 2023, a prestigious honor recognizing his exceptional commitment to the people he supports. But sitting with him in his Nevada home, I couldn’t help thinking about his grandmother, who helped shape his understanding of compassion so many decades ago.
As I left Richard’s home, I found myself thinking about how fortunate Dungarvin is to have people like him, who live our mission every day.
If you or someone you know is interested in receiving Adult Host Home Services from Dungarvin Nevada or services in another state, please visit www.Dungarvin.com.