About | Symbral Foundation

About Us

Symbral Foundation for Community Services Inc. was established in 1983 as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization in Washington, DC, to provide community-inclusive residential services for individuals who were previously institutionalized at Forest Haven.

A lawsuit filed by families of Forest Haven patients in 1976, joined by the Department of Justice in 1978, resulted in the relocation of these individuals into community residential homes.

Under the auspices of the DC Department of Disability Services, those supported by Symbral reside in houses licensed as ICF/ID-DD, as well as apartments or homes certified for Supported Living, Supported Living Periodic, and Residential Habilitation in the Washington, DC Metropolitan Area for persons with developmental disabilities.

Eligibility for services is determined by the Department of Disability Services (DDS).

The goal is for individuals to live in the least restrictive environment, with dignity and self-determination.

Our homes are located in neighborhoods with access to churches, shopping, recreational and community activities, and public transportation. Individuals are encouraged to participate in tasks that help them acquire skills and achieve their personal goals.

Our services are provided to individuals and their families using both paid and natural supports to enhance the quality of life in health, safety, and enjoyment. These services include:

• Psychologist

• Social Worker

• Case Management

• Nutritional Supports

Nurses provide health and wellness support, medical appointment scheduling, and follow-up. Case Managers and House Managers ensure the implementation of Independent Living Skills Training, Community-Based Mental Health and Psychotherapy, Self-Advocacy Training, and community inclusion and participation activities.

Individuals receiving services at Symbral are involved in establishing their homes by selecting available options for where they would like to live, setting up their home or room, and choosing their direct support staff. Symbral provides a warm, safe, home-like atmosphere seven days a week, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It is available to adults who need residential and respite services.

Building Bridges to Brighter Futures

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In Loving Memory of Our Founders

Dr. Yvonne P. Mohammed and Mr. Leon J. Mohammed

As we continuously strive to honor the memory of Mr. and Mrs. Mohammed, we reflect on the extraordinary legacy they created together. This remarkable couple immigrated to the U.S. with a vision and a passion for service, dedicating their lives to serving their community and everyone around them.

Their commitment to fostering independence and supporting personal growth has transformed countless lives. Through their unwavering dedication, they not only founded our nonprofit but also created a compassionate community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. They tirelessly offered support to those in need, and inspired us all to embrace the spirit of service.

Today, we remember their kindness, their resilience, and their belief in the potential of every individual. As we continue their mission, we carry forward their legacy of compassion, advocacy, and unwavering support for those we serve. To honor their memory, Symbral commits to a minimum of two major acts of charitable community service outside the scope of our nonprofit around their birthdays, annually. This may include; donations of funds, valuables, food, or volunteer work.

We are eternally grateful for their incredible contributions.