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
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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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.
Want more adventures from Gabriel Homes?
In fact, the August 2025 issue of Gabriel Homes’ monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, centered entirely on the trips residents took across the country. Learn more about where our residents went, why they traveled, and what they loved about their vacations at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Check out The Treehouse dddcd
2025’s top New Year’s resolutions were to eat healthier and exercise more.
The sky is the limit at Gabriel Homes
At Gabriel Homes, our residents are focused on reaching new heights in their independence in 2026 with their New Year’s resolutions.
Two residents at Gabriel Homes, Darcy and January, are focused on staying healthy and active this year.
“I go to lots of events with adult social club every month. Staying at home all the time can be boring! Going out and making friends is good for people’s mental health, so I like to stay super involved for my wellness.”
Darcy, Gabriel Homes Resident
Several residents join Darcy and January in going out and staying in shape.
Sara looks forward to spending more time with her family this year. Even if they’re spending a quiet weekend at home, she feels comfortable since she’s spending time with loved ones.
As for fitness, John aims to break new records for Special Olympics powerlifting. John won several medals in last year’s state competition, including one gold medal, so he believes he can top his personal bests in 2026.
“I feel stronger and stronger after every practice. My coaches and friends push me to do my best at tournaments, so I want to win for them too.” 
John Gabriel Homes Resident
One of John’s teammates, Chris, says his New Year’s resolution is to get more sleep. He says having a better night’s rest leaves him in good spirits for work and activities. Rich and Angie agree with Chris on positivity going into the new year. The two have different reasons for their goals: Angie wants to maintain a bright attitude for new, fun events ahead, while Rich believes happiness leads to doing the right thing.
“You know what they say, ‘What goes around comes around!’ Everyone should be happy and make others feel the same.”
Rich, Gabriel Homes Resident
While residents have their sights set on New Year’s resolutions, many of them have ongoing goals thanks to their individual support plans (ISPs). See what ISPs and New Year’s resolutions have in common at gabrielhomes.org. Learn More About ISPs
More sports stories at Gabriel Homes:
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
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Nearly two-thirds of U.S. households hung outdoor holiday lights last year.
Residents at Gabriel Homes were no exception. To close out 2025 with Christmas spirit, the Gabriel Homes Work Crew (GHWC) and residents set up Christmas lights and decorations across the homes.
Despite facing heavy wind chills, the GHWC was promptly up and about at the first home in the early morning.
Crewmembers Mike Flynn and Mike Foley led work on the lights, while the rest of the group put their energy into clearing the yards of leaves. Rakes and leaf blowers moved dozens of bags of fall leaves. The crew left the yards nearly spotless so all the focus would be on the dazzling lights.
“I’ve been a work crew member for many year. Our team enjoys the work we can do for the residents of Gabriel Homes, but especially when we decorate their homes with Christmas decorations and lights. This year we hung about 800-1,000 outdoor lights on their houses and landscape. My hope is they receive some joy and happiness viewing these beautiful lights on their homes.”
Mike Flynn, Gabriel Homes Work Crew Member
Residents had their time to shine by decorating indoors.
Adorning Christmas trees and filling the rooms with holiday decor lifts their festive spirit when they’re the ones doing it. Angie’s (first photo, left) tree stood covered with gold, blue, and green ornaments, and she had extra help from her friend Rich (first photo, right) and a residential counselor, Angela (second photo). Since he had longer arms, Rich helped Angie by placing snowflakes on the wall and ornaments higher on the tree.
Rich
Gabriel Homes Resident
While the lights may be up for only several weeks, another resident, John, celebrates Christmas all year long. See all the holly, jolly tunes John plays for his housemates at gabrielhomes.org/stories.
Learn about John’s favorite Christmas tunes
More resident spotlights:
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 dddcdJoe, a resident at Gabriel Homes, won first place in the push-pull event during the Powerlifting Winter Wrecker tournament held in December.
His gold medal came thanks to his combined weight in the bench press and deadlift categories.
The Winter Wrecker tournament joined athletes of all abilities for two days of squat, bench press, and deadlift competition. Special Olympics athletes competed alongside lifters of various experience and division levels.
“I get super happy when I think about my gold medal. My coaches and I train hard for these tournaments, and I’m really proud of myself for winning the gold medal.” 
Joe Gabriel Homes Resident 
A new record!
Another highlight came from Sean, who achieved his personal best by deadlifting over 275 pounds. Having competed in Special Olympics for over a decade, Sean was proud to mark new milestones in his athletic career.
“I’m glad I’m still a strong powerlifter. Lifting heavy weights isn’t easy, but there’s definitely more I can accomplish.” 
Sean Gabriel Homes Resident 
A new record!
Powerlifting residents faced the fiercest competition to date against fellow powerlifters. To medal, lifters had to complete lifts in every category. Some, like Joe, entered the push-pull division, while others went with the full powerlifting set of squats, bench presses, and deadlifts. As the rules go, miss one lift, and you’re out of medal contention.
While other residents may be disappointed not to walk away with medals, they see the results as motivation to outdo themselves for the next tournament.
“You can’t win them all! I’ve faced the best in the country before, so I believe in myself. Better results are coming!” 
Chris Gabriel Homes Resident 
Looking ahead, residents and coaches are already gearing up for their next meet. Everyone has the same goals in mind at every training session: lift heavier, hit new personal bests, and bring home more medals.
“I’m proud of everyone who competed for giving the tournament their all,” said Coach Bill Whiteside. “Our powerlifters embraced the Special Olympics oath: Let me win, but if I cannot win, let me be brave at the attempt.”
At the 2025 Virginia state powerlifting competition, all our residents who competed walked home with medals.
See which categories residents won gold, silver, and bronze at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Click Here
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
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The Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame Class of 2025
Gabriel Homes, Inc. (GHI), a leading housing provider for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in Reston and Herndon, is proud to announce five inductees to the Hall of Fame class of 2025. As the largest class since the posthumous founders’ class of 1982, this year’s inductees are honored for their significant, long-lasting impacts on Gabriel Homes.
The Selection Process:
Inducted at the Christmas party, the Hall of Fame class 2025 was selected by the Board of Directors for exemplifying our mission and vision of independence for adults of all abilities. The esteemed members of this year’s class include:
- Jim Anderson, Volunteer
- John H., Former Resident
- Beth Hoyos, Staff
- Willie Lemay, Former Volunteer
- Tom Stringer, Former Staff
“Each of these inductees represents the very best of Gabriel Homes. They’ve worked tirelessly to keep independence at the center of everything we do. Gabriel Homes simply wouldn’t be the same without these five individuals.” 
Lynn Davis Executive Director, Gabriel Homes 
Jim Anderson
Jim Anderson has long been a quiet force behind Gabriel Homes. Whenever a home needed a truck, landscaping, or a new driveway, Jim and his business partner Mike Holupka were the ones making it happen without fanfare or recognition. From solving countless problems to supporting the Gabriel Homes Annual Golf Tournament, Jim generously donated his time and resources through The Anderson Company. When Mike served as board chair, Jim worked behind the scenes. Jim’s partnership and commitment to Gabriel Homes have been invaluable.
Jim is known for his selflessness and desire to give back. Gabriel Homes has long been the beneficiary of his generosity.
“Jim is a wonderful, kind, and giving individual. He has the biggest heart of anyone I know.” 
Mike Holupka Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame Class of 2023
John H.:
The late John H. had an outlook on life and sense of humor that brightened everyone’s day. Everyone who met John was greeted with a warm smile and welcome; he truly wanted to get to know others. He was loved and revered by staff, his community, and coworkers as a beacon of independence.
At home, John was the king of pop culture. He would break stories to you quicker than the news ticker would finish the headline. You could always catch him watching all the best soap operas on TV, “General Hospital” being his favorite.
“Every day with John was exciting. We did everything together, and I knew I’d spend the whole time laughing.” 
Rich John’s former housemate 
Beth Hoyos (center)
Beth joined Gabriel Homes in the summer of 1998 as a weekend counselor. She was pursuing her master’s in social work at George Mason University at the time. Up to her induction in 2025, she has always given — and continues to give — 100% of her heart to our residents and Gabriel Homes. Beth consistently found creative ways to support them, always prioritizing their dignity and rights.
In 2020, Gabriel Homes faced unprecedented challenges when the COVID-19 pandemic swept the world. Adults with IDD saw higher hospitalization rates. With Beth’s leadership and the support of the Gabriel Homes staff, residents stayed safe and cared for during one of the most anxious health crises in our lifetimes.
“I’ve had the privilege to work closely with Beth in the 25 years I have been a part of Gabriel Homes. She has been a steady source of support for the residents, staff, and board. We are so lucky to have her as part of the Gabriel Homes community.” 
Michele Bolos Chair, Gabriel Homes Board of Directors 
Willie Lemay (left)
The late Willie Lemay was a rare individual who always showed up with a smile on his face. He was part of the Gabriel Homes Work Crew (GHWC), a group of retirees who meet once a month to help maintain our many homes. Many in the GHWC know of Willie as “Mr. Happy.”
Willie helped with painting, landscaping, and home repair projects. Some may remember him for his antics, like spraying paint or tossing too many mothballs around the homes. But true to his word, Willie would be first to leave the homes better than he found them.
“The workday will not be the same without Willie. We miss him so much because he meant so much. He was an individual who liked everyone, and everyone liked him.” 
Mickey Femino Gabriel Homes Work Crew; Longtime Friend of Willie Lemay 
Tom Stringer (left)
Tom worked at GHI for 13 years as a residential counselor before retiring in May 2025. During his tenure, he was a respected employee who was loved by the residents he worked with and respected by his coworkers. Every time he walked through the front door, the residents could count on him to lend a listening ear and offer a kind heart. Many of the residents reached new heights in their independence thanks to Tom’s dedicated support.
“Tom was family. He was nice to Caryn and me, and he was always great to see at home. He helped us get ready for dances like Night to Shine and the Spring Fling. I’m very happy to call Tom my friend.” 
Shelby Gabriel Homes Resident
Catch up on previous Hall of Fame classes!
Meet and read the bios of past Hall of Fame inductees at gabrielhomes.org. Learn More