Reston, Va. — February 10, 2026
Gabriel Homes, a leading housing provider for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), is proud to announce the All Abilities Block Party on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lake Anne Plaza in Reston.
This first-ever Block Party will celebrate the abilities and inclusion of all members of our community. It will feature fun activities and interactive stations to learn about community resources. And what’s a block party without food? Working with Kalypso Sports Tavern, Gabriel Homes will provide free lunches for all attendees. Community members will be able to meet residents, staff, and board members from Gabriel Homes and learn how they engage and contribute in Reston and beyond.
“The All Abilities Block Party is about visibility and connections. Our residents are active members of our community, and the Block Party gives everyone the chance to celebrate all abilities, including those at Gabriel Homes.”
Lynn Davis, Executive Director, Gabriel Homes
Event Details:
- When: Saturday, April 11, 2026, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Where: Lake Anne Plaza, Reston, Va.
- Cost: Free and open to all who RSVP
RSVP Today!
RSVP today for the All Abilities Block Party at gabrielhomes.org/party. RSVP
Thank you to our resource fair partners:
The Arc of Northern Virginia, Civitan International, Cloverleaf Equine Center, Didlake, MindShift Gym, SPARC, and Special Olympics.
dddcd
Everyone Loves a Party!
The February 2026 edition of Gabriel Homes’, monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, is proud to announce the first-ever All Abilities Block Party at Lake Anne Plaza in Reston.
Announcing the All Abilities Block Party
This first-ever Block Party will celebrate the abilities and inclusion of all members of our community. It will feature fun activities and interactive stations to learn about community resources. And what’s a block party without food? Working with Kalypso Sports Tavern, Gabriel Homes will provide free lunches for all attendees. Community members will be able to meet residents, staff, and board members from Gabriel Homes and learn how they engage and contribute throughout Reston and beyond.
Event Details
- When: Saturday, April 11, 2026, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
- Where: Lake Anne Plaza, Reston, Va.
- Cost: Free and open to all who RSVP
See the full press release at gabrielhomes.org. RSVP today at gabrielhomes.org/party, and share the link with friends, family, and connections.
Residents Show Off Acrobatic Skills at MindShift Gym
Our residents are starting their parkour journeys at MindShift gym, a fitness center in Reston. Weekly lessons feature obstacle courses including ramps and blocks.
“MindShift isn’t like regular exercise because it’s fun! I feel proud of myself for getting stronger after every session.”
Rich (first photo), Gabriel Homes Resident
See our residents doing parkour
No Place Like Home at GH3
Gabriel Homes #3, purchased in 1994, has been a haven for families seeking safe, comfortable, and dignified living for their family members with IDD. Many residents have called the GH3 home since the moment they moved in.
While Shelby and Caryn (second photo, left and right respectively) like drinking coffee out back, Sara (third photo) loves the independence of her large bedroom.
Learn about the history of GH3
Follow us on social media for weekly updates, and share your favorite stories with your followers:
Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter Threads Link 
Residents Built Confidence With Esther
Esther Eastman Greene (right) worked at Gabriel Homes for 21 years and came to understand each resident’s strengths and needs. As a residential counselor, everyone saw her as a trusted leader.
See how Esther fostered a safe, independent home environment at gabrielhomes.org.
Independence Through Employment at ECHO
Kari (left) works at the Janelia Research Campus, a major biomedical research center in Ashburn. At her job, Kari is part of the grounds team that provides essential support. She furnishes cages for research mice, filling each with food and activities.
“My coworkers and supervisor are fun, kind people. Anyone would dream of working at Janelia!”
Kari
See what a day at Kari's job looks like at gabrielhomes.org.
Residents Show Thanks to Staff With Cookies
Lucy (first photo) and Rich (second photo), two residents at Gabriel Homes, went the extra mile during the season of giving. With the assistance of program coordinators Daniel Borges and Naomi Pariona, they baked, decorated, and wrote holiday cards for the residential counselors!
“MindShift isn’t like regular exercise because it’s fun! I feel proud of myself for getting stronger after every session.”
Rich (first photo), Gabriel Homes Resident
See how our residents showed their appreciation
Staff Pick One Word to Define Their Year
Gabriel Homes staff kicked off the year at the One Word event hosted by former board member Leslie Kane at Pinot’s Palette. The paint and sip art studio welcomed guests from the community to paint a canvas featuring one word to represent 2026.
See which words our staff chose
Upcoming Dates:
Reminder!
Let staff know at least 24 hours in advance if you make plans with your family member. Giving Gabriel Homes notice assures us that every resident is taken care of if they’re not home.
Use the on-call phone number or email staff to notify us.
Remember to email us your feedback if you have any questions, suggestions, or ideas for future editions of The Treehouse.
Feel free to send our newsletter to any friends or family who don’t receive it. Share our newsletter sign-up link so they can join today.
Follow Gabriel Homes on all your favorite social media platforms: Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Threads.
We appreciate donations of any amounts.
Consider making a donation to Gabriel Homes today.
More stories you may have missed:
The Treehouse: February 2026 Newsletter February 9, 2026 Read More
Residents Show Off Acrobatic Skills at Reston Parkour Gym February 9, 2026 Read More
Announcing: All Abilities Block Party at Lake Anne Plaza in Reston February 6, 2026 Read More
Esther Built Residents’ Confidence at Home February 6, 2026 Read More
Independence Through Employment at ECHO February 6, 2026 Read More
Shaping a Safe and Welcoming Home for Adults With IDD January 30, 2026 Read More
Residents Show Thanks to Staff With Cookie Decorations in Reston January 26, 2026 Read More
Painting Purpose That Connects Us – One Word at Pinot’s Palette Dulles January 23, 2026 Read More
The Treehouse: January 2026 Newsletter January 13, 2026 Read More
Urgent Action Needed to Support Virginian Adults with IDD January 9, 2026 Read More
Residents Embrace December with Travel and Local Events January 2, 2026 Read More
Gabriel Homes Residents Share 2026 New Year’s Resolutions December 29, 2025 Read More
dddcd
Parkour isn’t just for athletes.
People of all abilities and ages stay active with the sport in fun, adaptable ways. By focusing on balance, strength, and movement, some tailored parkour programs meet participants where they’re at with their fitness.
Inclusive Parkour Gym
Residents at Gabriel Homes are starting their acrobatic journeys at MindShift Gym, a Reston-based fitness center. The gym specializes in parkour, aerial arts, and acrobatics classes designed for all skill levels. MindShift’s owner joined residents on a recent trip and offered a tour of the gym.
“Sessions with Gabriel Homes residents show how people of all abilities can have fun and benefit from participating in movements of all types. We strive to be a very welcoming environment and meet every individual where they are. Living up to our inclusive values is super easy with residents since they're so engaged with the parkour and dance classes!”
Bill Wotowiec, Owner, MindShift Gym
“MindShift doesn’t look like any other gym! You have to use your whole body to move around the obstacle course. I feel tired after each session, but it’s a great way to start the week!”
Patrick, Resident, Gabriel Homes
Inclusive Parkour Gym
The residents’ sessions at MindShift start with some warmups, mostly limbering the arms and legs. Once they loosen up, the residents excitedly look toward tackling the gym’s many obstacle courses. Some lessons include running up ramps and jumping over blocks.
“MindShift isn’t like regular exercise because it’s fun! I feel the same as others who leave the gym: proud of myself and much stronger.” 
Rich Gabriel Homes Resident
No matter the exercise, the instructor checks that all participants are comfortable and confident at the gym. The instructor reteaches the steps if residents are uncertain how to climb over any objects. Some residents say they appreciate the second set of hands if any exercises are too challenging.
“The instructors are very nice with all of us! They do the exercises step by step with us so we can climb over all the obstacles. Their parkour skills are great, too; sometimes they show off cool tricks all over the gym.”
January, Resident, Gabriel Homes
Practice Makes Perfect
While some residents stay in shape by going to MindShift every week, others also head to the gym for Special Olympics powerlifting training. See how weekly sessions look for our residents at gabrielhomes.org. See our residents powerlifting
More sports stories at Gabriel Homes:
Powerlifting Residents Crush the Winter Wrecker Tournament December 19, 2025 Read More
Special Olympics Soccer Is a Calling for Athletes October 22, 2025 Read More
Daniel Borges Finishes Under an Hour at Marine Corps 12K in Quantico October 2, 2025 Read More
Kendall Heren: How Volunteering at Special Olympics Changed My Career Path October 1, 2025 Read More
Powerlifters “Pull” off the Impossible at the 2025 Dulles Plane Pull September 25, 2025 Read More
Sarah Carwile: How Special Olympics Impacts My Board Service September 19, 2025 Read More
Special Olympics Softball in Loudoun: Rich’s Risky Move Pays Off July 31, 2025 Read More
Community Corner: Special Olympics Bowling Brings Family & Friends Together April 17, 2025 Read More
Community Corner: The Physical and Mental Benefits of Bowling February 28, 2025 Read More
Special Olympics Powerlifting Champions Return to Practice December 19, 2024 Read More
dddcd
Living with independence and dignity can make all the difference in someone’s life.
At Gabriel Homes, residential counselors foster a sense of security while guiding residents through new skills and helping them grow more confident in their daily lives.
Years of Impact at Gabriel Homes
Esther Eastman Greene worked at Gabriel Homes for 21 years and came to understand each resident’s strengths and needs.
“Our residents always strive for new goals, so I gently pushed them beyond their comfort zone while meeting them where they were,” said Esther. “I cheered them on when they doubted themselves, and their smiles were wide when they accomplished something new.”
Confidence With Residents
As a residential counselor, staff and residents knew her as a principled, trusted leader.
“The homes are the residents’ homes,” Esther continued. “You don’t feel at home if somebody comes in and takes over. The residents choose their groceries, do their own housework, and spend their free time however they wish.
Residents felt comfortable at home when Esther worked with them. One of Esther’s proudest moments at Gabriel Homes was seeing the residents improve their cooking skills. Esther especially pushed residents when she taught them how to slice onions. Once they could cut on their own, residents took pride in safely preparing new meals for their housemates.
“Esther taught me how to make boiled eggs!” said Rich, a resident at Gabriel Homes. “Her pancakes on Good Friday were incredible. When she wasn’t with us, I was trying to copy her recipe.”
The professional relationships became friendships when Esther was ready to retire. She and the residents grew closer during the height of the pandemic: During staff shortages, Esther stepped in for overnight shifts, and the residents felt safe at home under her leadership.
“Esther was one of the nicest people I ever met!” said Angie (left), a resident at Gabriel Homes. “I felt safe with her during COVID, and she made up fun activities around our home so we never felt lonely.”
In 2024, Esther was inducted into the Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame.
See her bio and learn the stories of all our inductees at gabrielhomes.org. Click HereOther Hall of Fame Spotlights:
Gabriel Homes Announces Hall of Fame Class of 2025 December 12, 2025 Read More How Fr. Gerry Creedon Put Faith into Action at Gabriel Homes December 9, 2025 Read More Faith Leader in Virginia Is a Father Figure to Many May 28, 2025 Read More dddcd
For many families, choosing a place where their loved ones with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) can truly feel at home is one of the most meaningful decisions they ever make.
At Gabriel Homes, our homes are more than a roof and four walls — it’s a place where residents feel safe, independent, and dignified. A home is the laughter shared with friends, the quiet of a favorite spot to relax, and the reassuring sense of belonging.
No Place Like Home
Gabriel Homes #3, purchased in 1994, has been a reassuring haven for families seeking safe, comfortable, and dignified living for their family members with IDD. Many residents have called the GH3 home since the moment they moved in.
Caryn and Shelby, two residents who have lived at GH3 for over 30 years, spend their mornings drinking coffee on the back porch. Chris and Patrick, on the other hand, throw the football in the yard. On snowy days, Patrick bundles up and lies on the ground to make snow angels.
“I can do everything I want here. It’s a comfortable place where I hang out with friends or relax alone.”
Patrick
Gabriel Homes Resident
Independence & Comfort
Another housemate, Sara, agrees with Patrick. She loves how she can spend time on her own at GH3. Her bedroom is on the ground floor, which Sara says allows her to feel independent from those who sleep upstairs.
“My favorite thing to do at home is read my books. It’s easy to read my collection because little noise gets downstairs.”
Sara, Gabriel Homes Resident
A Home for People of All Abilities
Gary Le Francois, former director of the infrastructure committee on the board of directors, knows the ins and outs of the home as well as the residents do. Since his son Sam moved into GH3 in 2000, Gary has not only witnessed the home’s transformation — he has also used his decades of experience in the trades to help maintain and renovate it.
“Our homes shouldn’t be maintained any differently because the residents have disabilities. They should look and feel like comfortable, safe homes anybody would walk into.”
Gary Le Francois, Father of a Gabriel Homes Resident
Gabriel Homes has six homes across Herndon and Reston.
Check out the many amenities our homes have in store at gabrielhomes.org. See Our HomesMore Stories About Our Homes:
Shaping a Safe and Welcoming Home for Adults With IDD January 30, 2026 Read More Gabriel Homes Goes All-Out in Christmas Decorations at Home December 23, 2025 Read More Route 7 Brewing Caters Thanksgiving Dinner November 27, 2025 Read More Residents Give Back at Knights of Columbus in Reston November 3, 2025 Read More Gabriel Homes Work Crew Turns Skills Into Service October 20, 2025 Read More dddcd
A modest idea can turn into a meaningful gesture when you work together to surprise the people you care about most.
Finding simple ways to show your appreciation can bring a home even closer together.
Going the Extra Mile
Lucy and Rich, two residents at Gabriel Homes, went the extra mile during the season of giving. With the assistance of program coordinators Daniel Borges and Naomi Pariona, they baked, decorated, and wrote holiday cards for the residential counselors. The team worked on a wide range of cookies, including sugar, gingerbread, and chocolate cookies, and chocolate bark.
“Making cookies was fun because I was giving back to people I care about. We had to manage lots of dishes all over the kitchen, so we had to work as a team putting the gifts together.” 
Lucy Gabriel Homes Resident 
The Process
Naomi baked the cookies and brought them in trays to Rich’s home to assemble them. The residents and program coordinators formed an assembly line where they passed the cookies and placed them into tin containers for the recipients. To Lucy and Rich’s excitement, there were plenty of leftover cookies. They added extras to everyone’s tins and ate a few themselves.
“Staff are really important to us because they help us as we help them. They’re with us whether we have good or bad days, and they’re here to make us feel more confident about ourselves.” 
Rich Gabriel Homes Resident 
Forever Thankful
After their final touches on the cookie tins, Rich and Lucy wrote cards thanking the staff for their hard work. Rich said he was so appreciative of staff that he would’ve written a million cards if he had the chance.
“I will always remember the way the residents go above and beyond to show their appreciation to us,” said Angela Rivera, a residential counselor at Gabriel Homes who received one of the cookie tins. “The card and tin have a special place in my home because they were such beautiful gestures!”
Learn About Services at Gabriel Homes
Every resident at Gabriel Homes receives personalized support from staff members so they can live comfortably and independently. Learn more about our services at gabrielhomes.org. See Our Services
Our Residents Thriving in the Community:
Residents Embrace December with Travel and Local Events January 2, 2026 Read More
Gabriel Homes Residents Share 2026 New Year’s Resolutions December 29, 2025 Read More
Why 2025 Was One of Angie’s Best Years to Date December 1, 2025 Read More
Route 7 Brewing Caters Thanksgiving Dinner November 27, 2025 Read More
Residents Celebrate Veterans Day in Washington, DC November 25, 2025 Read More
Every Day Is Christmas at Gabriel Homes November 13, 2025 Read More
Residents Give Back at Knights of Columbus in Reston November 3, 2025 Read More
Gabriel Homes Residents Shine at 2nd Annual Boo Bash October 28, 2025 Read More
Residents Catch Sights of the Shenandoah River and Mountains October 27, 2025 Read More
dddcd
Did you know? The words you choose at the start of the year can shape how you approach your goals.
Psychologists say picking positive words (“keep trying”) instead of harsh ones (“don’t mess up”) can better motivate you toward your goals. At Gabriel Homes, staff turned motivation into action by choosing a word to guide their new year.
Painting at Pinot’s Palette Dulles
Gabriel Homes staff kicked off the year with a bright outlook during the One Word event hosted by former board member Leslie Kane at Pinot’s Palette. The paint and sip art studio welcomed guests from the community to paint a canvas featuring their chosen word that represented the new year. Many words at past events centered around growth or fresh starts, such as breathe, emergence, and release.
“My word, devotion, is a continuation from pivot, which I used last year. This year will focus more time and energy on my personal and professional pivots. I drew flowers in a vase to represent the devotion it takes to nurture flowers.”
Gwen Murugu, Residential Director, Gabriel Homes
Similar Themes, Unique Expressions
While the words had similar values, the canvases looked nothing alike. Program coordinator Naomi Pariona also leaned into nature when she painted patience draped over a forest in twilight. Assistant director Mariel Cedeño Edge used earth tones such as brown, mustard, and green, to evoke the strength of a tree trunk for her word, grounded.
“To me, the trunk connects foundation to growth. I look forward to channeling those two qualities throughout the year with our residents.”
Mariel Cedeño Edge, Assistant Director, Gabriel Homes
Similar Themes, Unique Expressions
One Word also gave staff a chance to focus on their own creativity and think about their goals for the year. The staff’s canvases reflected their shared sense of purpose. Words like patience, impact, and forward showed the passion for their work and the care they take for themselves.
“Our guests are wonderful at expressing the best way to live their word choices in their art. The best way to make the One Word workshop your own is to let your creativity flow with your paint.”
Robyn McClure, Owner, Pinot’s Palette Dulles
See Our Residents’ Perspectives on the New Year
Residents at Gabriel Homes talked about their goals when sharing their New Year’s resolutions. See what our residents are looking forward to at gabrielhomes.org. Learn MoreMore Resident Spotlights:
Residents Embrace December with Travel and Local Events January 2, 2026 Read More Gabriel Homes Residents Share 2026 New Year’s Resolutions December 29, 2025 Read More Why 2025 Was One of Angie’s Best Years to Date December 1, 2025 Read More Route 7 Brewing Caters Thanksgiving Dinner November 27, 2025 Read More Residents Celebrate Veterans Day in Washington, DC November 25, 2025 Read More Every Day Is Christmas at Gabriel Homes November 13, 2025 Read More Residents Give Back at Knights of Columbus in Reston November 3, 2025 Read More Gabriel Homes Residents Shine at 2nd Annual Boo Bash October 28, 2025 Read More Residents Catch Sights of the Shenandoah River and Mountains October 27, 2025 Read More Special Olympics Soccer Is a Calling for Athletes October 22, 2025 Read More Special Olympics Softball in Loudoun: Rich’s Risky Move Pays Off July 31, 2025 Read More Patrick’s Family Reunion in South Carolina July 23, 2025 Read More dddcd
The January 2026 edition of Gabriel Homes’ monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, dives into our residents’ achievements and ambitions in the new year.
Learn about our residents’ new year’s resolutions, the latest inductees into the Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame, and the latest tournament results from our Special Olympics powerlifters. You can delve into all these stories and more in the January 2026 edition of our monthly newsletter, The Treehouse.
Residents Share Their New Year’s Resolutions
As they continue to make their mark throughout Reston, our residents are focused on how they can go above and beyond in 2026. See who has their sights set on health and positivity at gabrielhomes.org.
See all our residents’ resolutions
Follow us on social media for weekly updates, and share your favorite stories with your followers:
Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter Threads Link
Gabriel Homes Announces Hall of Fame Class of 2025
At last month's Christmas party, Jim Anderson, John H., Beth Hoyos, Willie Lemay, and Tom Stringer (pictured in order) were inducted to the Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame. The five inductees were honored for their significant, long-lasting impacts on Gabriel Homes.
See photos from the party and read the bios of the class of 2025 at gabrielhomes.org.
Powerlifters Crush the Winter Wrecker Tournament
Competing against athletes of all abilities, Joe (first photo) won first place in the push-pull event. His gold medal came thanks to his combined weight in the bench press and deadlift categories. Sean (second photo) then achieved a personal best when he deadlifted 275 lbs.
“My coaches and I train hard for these tournaments, and I'm proud of myself for winning the gold medal.”
Joe
See highlights from the latest powerlifting tournament
Services, Housing, and More on the Line in Virginia Legislature
The Arc of Virginia and Northern Virginia warn that without legislative action, people with IDD risk losing supports that make independence possible.
See the Arc's policy priorities for the Virginia General Assembly in 2026 at gabrielhomes.org.
See how you can support adults with IDD
Gabriel Homes Goes All-Out in Christmas Decorations
Our residents and the Gabriel Homes Work Crew (GHWC) spread the holiday spirit across our homes. While residents decorated their trees and walls indoors, GHWC members trimmed shrubs, cleared leaves, and set up the outdoor lights.
“My hope is the residents feel joy and happiness viewing these beautiful lights on their homes.”
Mike Flynn, GHWC Member
See photos of all the Christmas decor
Residents Travel All Over in December
At last month's Christmas party, Jim Anderson, John H., Beth Hoyos, Willie Lemay, and Tom Stringer (pictured in order) were inducted to the Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame. The five inductees were honored for their significant, long-lasting impacts on Gabriel Homes.
See photos from the party and read the bios of the class of 2025 at gabrielhomes.org.
See all our residents’ adventures
Reminder!
Let staff know at least 24 hours in advance if you make plans with your family member. Giving Gabriel Homes notice assures us that every resident is taken care of if they’re not home.
Use the on-call phone number or email staff to notify us.
Remember to email us your feedback if you have any questions, suggestions, or ideas for future editions of The Treehouse.
Feel free to send our newsletter to any friends or family who don’t receive it. Share our newsletter sign-up link so they can join today.
Follow Gabriel Homes on all your favorite social media platforms: Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Threads.
We appreciate donations of any amounts.
Consider making a donation to Gabriel Homes today.
More stories you may have missed:
The Treehouse: January 2026 Newsletter January 13, 2026 Read More
Urgent Action Needed to Support Virginian Adults with IDD January 9, 2026 Read More
Residents Embrace December with Travel and Local Events January 2, 2026 Read More
Gabriel Homes Residents Share 2026 New Year’s Resolutions December 29, 2025 Read More
Gabriel Homes Goes All-Out in Christmas Decorations at Home December 23, 2025 Read More
Powerlifting Residents Crush the Winter Wrecker Tournament December 19, 2025 Read More
Gabriel Homes Announces Hall of Fame Class of 2025 December 12, 2025 Read More
The Treehouse: December 2025 Newsletter December 10, 2025 Read More
How Fr. Gerry Creedon Put Faith into Action at Gabriel Homes December 9, 2025 Read More
Four Gabriel Homes Board Members Conclude Service at Year’s End December 5, 2025 Read More
Why 2025 Was One of Angie’s Best Years to Date December 1, 2025 Read More
Route 7 Brewing Caters Thanksgiving Dinner November 27, 2025 Read More
dddcd
Vital services, housing, and civil rights for Virginians with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are in jeopardy.
Without swift legislative action, people with IDD risk losing the supports that make independence possible. The Arc of Virginia is calling on policymakers to act now to support and protect essential programs and uphold equal rights for people of all abilities.
Legislative Hurtles in 2026
Advocates warn that failure to act during the 2026 General Assembly could lead to housing instability, barriers to access Medicaid, and erosion of basic civil rights. The result of inaction would leave many Virginians vulnerable to unstable and isolated livelihoods.
“The time to pass bills is incredibly tight. This is why we rely on you to invite your legislators and come to candidate forums. If we hear about an issue over and over, that’s something we’re going to ask our state to act on.”
Lucy Beadnell, Director of Advocacy, The Arc of Northern Virginia
What are some of The Arc’s top 2026 priorities?
Preserve Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) Disregard policy:
Continuing this program allows adults with IDD to work without losing Medicaid waiver services. Removing it would mean losing essential services when earning income.
Expand the Medicaid Works program:
Current barriers can force individuals to choose between employment and essential health care. People with IDD can continue to work without losing Medicaid coverage.
Increase State Rental Assistance Program (SRAP) funding:
With rising housing costs, 148 fewer Virginians with IDD can find stable housing. Increased funding would restore capacity for housing programs and options.
Align and Raise service rates:
Service rates determine how providers are reimbursed for caring for adults with IDD. Updating rates would reflect the actual costs of services and expand access to underused options such as Supported Living.
Protect Voting Rights:
Virginia law mandates adults with IDD under guardianship to lose their right to vote. Revising state law would enshrine their access to the democratic process.
With federal budget cuts looming over disability programs, The Arc is fighting to protect three Virginia organizations funded by federal grants under the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act:
Virginia Board for People with Disabilities:
Provides oversight and advocacy to improve policies and promote inclusion.
disAbility Law Center of Virginia:
Offers legal protection to defend the rights of people with disabilities.
Partnership for People with Disabilities:
Offers training and technical assistance to service providers, families, and communities to improve programs and expand opportunities for people with disabilities.
The three programs are the backbone of Virginia’s disability system by ensuring accountability, advocating for a high quality of life, and improving statewide services.
“Our legislators have only 60 days to vote on legislation, so sessions are phenomenally intense. If you have ideas for the future, we’d love to help you. It takes a community to make Virginia better.”
Lucy Beadnell
See more resources through The Arc
The Arc and its local chapters offer a wealth of information through its resource library and innovative programs. Learn from Donna Patchett, secretary of the Gabriel Homes Board of Directors who also serves on The Arc of NoVa’s board, on how you can become an advocate and expert on a wide range of subjects related to IDD. Read More
dddcd
December ranks among the busiest travel months of the year, driven by a surge as millions journey for the holidays and new year.
Within Reston and throughout the country, residents at Gabriel Homes help play a part in tourism and their local economy. With all the events in town in December, no two days were the same for any resident.
On the travel side, Patrick spent December celebrating the holidays with his family in Arizona, while Stephen (pictured) went to see his brother in Florida for Christmas. Both couldn’t contain their excitement at getting to see their families. Even after seeing his brother for Thanksgiving, Stephen turned every conversation toward how happy he was to return to Florida.
“I love going to Florida because it’s so warm down there! Celebrating the holidays with my housemates is great, but nothing beats spending Christmas with my brother.”
Stephen, Gabriel Homes Resident
As for moving around Northern Virginia, residents’ schedules were full of plans. Two residents who work at ECHO, January and Kari (left and right), attended the Janelia Research Campus’ annual holiday party. ECHO employees have an employment partnership with Janelia, where January and Kari help with maintaining the campus grounds. After checking their coats and taking photos, guests jammed to live jazz and sampled dishes from seafood and risotto to short ribs, portobello burgers, and jambalaya. Both residents were also fixated on the dessert table.
January was an unstoppable force on the dance floor, so much so that she was moving nonstop before taking a water break. Once she had her drink, she was back to grooving in no time.
“Why would I stop dancing?? When I’m at a party, I dance like it’s the last day on Earth. The Janelia party is one of my favorite nights of the year!”
January
Gabriel Homes Resident
December Local Events in NOVA
Outside of work, a recent trip to the Bull Run Festival of Lights saw residents’ eyes glued to the 2½-mile light displays. Angie, Darcy, Dave, January, Kari, Lucy, Rich D., Rich R., and Stephen sang along to Christmas music while gazing at penguins, gingerbread homes, and Santa displays. At the end of the festival was a carnival featuring a petting zoo and shopping tents. Most residents fed the animals, while others opted for funnel cake and deep-fried Oreos. Once they headed back home, residents were planning what they’d like to do when they return next year.
“Petting and feeding the animals was the best part of the night. There were sheep, cows, and one camel; they were all so sweet! I like it when the animals face me when I pet them, because I don’t want them to be scared.”
Darcy, Gabriel Homes Resident
Lights in the Nighttime Sky
Even in the brisk winter, residents couldn’t resist the chance to be outside. Sean tagged along with January, Kari, Lucy, and Rich for a meteor shower in Sky Meadows State Park. The night was so cold, residents ordered hot coffee and snuggled in cozy blankets. Critters in the woods filled the air with noise as the group held onto their seats in excitement for the wonders in the sky. Clouds, unfortunately, started to roll in, which limited their sight. On the bright side, Lucy, Rich, and January said they could still catch glimpses of meteors and constellations.
Lucy
Gabriel Homes Resident
Another duo of residents, Caryn and Shelby (first photo, left and right), celebrated the month with indoor activities. Along with regular walks in the mall with their housemates, the two saw a series of performances throughout Northern Virginia. Early in the month was an Encore concert, where singers aged 55+ sang classic and modern tunes. Their favorite show of the month, however, was the Fairfax Symphony and Ballet’s performance of The Nutcracker.
“The music was beautiful and the dancing was lovely. Shelby and I hummed along to some of the songs on the way home.”
Caryn, Gabriel Homes Resident
Looking toward the new year...
As the calendar turns toward 2026, residents look forward to planning more trips that reflect their passions. Each event proves how our residents continue to build confidence in themselves and their connections within the community.