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
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In the December 2025 edition of Gabriel Homes’ monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, we look back on how our residents and community went above and beyond this year.
See the generosity from Route 7 Brewing when they catered a Thanksgiving dinner for our residents, check out photos of our residents from a recent trip to D.C., and see how Father Gerry Creedon played a critical role in the creation of Gabriel Homes today. Dive into all this and more in the December 2025 edition of our monthly newsletter, The Treehouse.
Route 7 Brewing Caters Thanksgiving Dinner at Gabriel Homes
Last month, our residents enjoyed their pre-Thanksgiving tradition catered by Route 7 Brewing, who were proud to celebrate their independence. AND, a surprise guest joined the party to cap off the night!
See the recap with photos from Thanksgiving at gabrielhomes.org.
Also follow us on social media for weekly updates, and share your favorite stories with your followers:
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How Fr. Gerry Creedon Put Faith Into Action
Gabriel Homes began with a simple belief: that adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities deserve independent, dignified lives. Father Gerry Creedon, then director of Catholic Charities, helped turned that vision into reality. With Catholic Charities laying the financial groundwork, Gabriel Homes was founded in 1982.
Why 2025 Was One of Angie’s Best Years to Date
Angie achieved it all in 2025! She’s been a leader among residents in staying up-to-date with responsibilities, and she’s gotten praise from her supervisors for her work ethic. You can find Angie out and about more than ever going into 2026!
Residents Celebrate Veterans Day in D.C.
In celebration of those who served our country, Rich, Sam, Stephen, Sean, and Daniel (first photo, pictured left to right) visited our nation’s capital. Everyone was in awe of the city’s landmarks, and the group enjoyed the fresh air far more than lounging around at home.
“There were tons of flags around the monument in memory of those who served our country I felt patriotic seeing them.” 
Rich Gabriel Homes Resident
Check out highlights at D.C. monuments
Every Day Is Christmas at Gabriel Homes
The season of joy lasts all year with John. Listening to the tracks from his extensive Christmas CD collection could fill months with holiday spirit on its own.
John brought the holiday spirit when he sang “The First Noel” earlier this year!
Learn more about John’s love of Christmas
Board Spotlight
Four Board Members Conclude Service at Year’s End
Elaine Bickel, Leslie Kane, Gary Le Francois, and Jack Mannion (pictured in order) announced they will finish their service on the Board of Directors at the end of 2025. With 36+ years of combined service, the four leaders helped drive the strategy for Gabriel Homes’ growth, modernize its policies as it grew, and, most importantly, met the changing needs of our residents.
Read the group’s final thoughts on the board
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.
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Consider making a donation to Gabriel Homes today.
More stories you may have missed:
The Treehouse: December 2025 Newsletter December 9, 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
Residents Celebrate Veterans Day in Washington, DC November 25, 2025 Read More
Every Day Is Christmas at Gabriel Homes November 13, 2025 Read More
The Treehouse: November 2025 Newsletter November 5, 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
dddcdThe origin of Gabriel Homes came from a simple but powerful belief:
that adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) could live independent, dignified lives.
The Impact 43 Years Later:
Since 1982, this mission has shaped countless lives in our community. At the heart of our vision was Father Gerry Creedon, one of the organization’s founders and a member of the Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame.
The Origin of Gabriel Homes
In the 1980s, Fr. Gerry was the director of Catholic Charities, a faith-based organization that provides social services to those in need. Fran Campbell, a mother of a person with IDD, met with him to see how he could help people like her child live independently. Catholic Charities laid the financial and structural groundwork, and Gabriel Homes was founded in 1982.
“Fr. Gerry was a man who always advocated for equality. If there was an opportunity for justice, independence, and dignity for those who felt alone, Fr. Gerry was fully behind them.”
Monsignor Bob Cilinski
Past President, Gabriel Homes Board of Directors
Once Gabriel Homes started operating smoothly, Fr. Gerry stepped down from the board. However, his commitment to our residents never faded. Fr. Gerry attended every annual Gabriel Homes golf tournament since its inception. He was such a talented golfer that those who didn’t know him mistook him for a professional. “No — a priest!” Fr. Gerry would reply.
“When the golf tournament rolled around, he showed up every time ready to help with a smile. Having someone of his caliber showing up spoke volumes. Fr. Gerry understood the impact of our work and the residents, and he was fully committed to supporting Gabriel Homes.”
Michele Bolos
Chair, Gabriel Homes Board of Directors
Fr. Gerry’s devotion to speaking up for others earned the respect of public servants. His relationship with the Kennedy family helped give those he supported a voice with leaders who could shape policy for them. Fr. Gerry led baptisms, marriages, and christenings for much of the family. Notably, he was close to Senator Ted Kennedy. After Mass, he and the senator talked about political and cultural issues.
When Sen. Kennedy died, Fr. Gerry said the opening prayer at his funeral.
His friendship with Sen. Kennedy was grounded in shared values the family championed for decades. In the early 1960s, President Kennedy advanced rights for people with IDD through national plans and programs that helped them live independently.
“We must promote — to the best of our ability and by all possible and appropriate means — the mental and physical health of all our citizens.”
President John F. Kennedy, 1963.
After Fr. Gerry Creedon died in 2017, the Virginia Senate passed a resolution celebrating his life. The text included his advocacy for housing and IDD rights as a founder of Gabriel Homes.
“Fr. Gerry was a terrific man,” says Chris (right), a resident at Gabriel Homes. “I’d call him my friend and best buddy. We talked about faith and the news, and he helped me feel connected to God. There was no other priest like Fr. Gerry.”
Gabriel Homes is gearing up to announce its 2025 Hall of Fame class.
Meet past inductees who join Fr. Gerry as champions of independence at gabrielhomes.org. Meet the GHI Hall of FameRecent Hall of Fame spotlights:
How Fr. Gerry Creedon Put Faith into Action at Gabriel Homes December 9, 2025 Read More Gabriel Homes Announces Hall of Fame Class of 2024 December 6, 2024 Read More Hall of Fame February 5, 2024 Read More dddcd
Elaine Bickel, Leslie Kane, Gary Le Francois, and Jack Mannion announced they will finish their service on the Gabriel Homes Board of Directors at the end of 2025.
With over 36 years of combined service, the four leaders of the board helped drive the strategy for Gabriel Homes’ growth, modernize policies as it grew, and, most importantly, met the changing needs of our residents.
Committee Roles
Bickel and Mannion served on the executive committee, the former serving as treasurer. Le Francois chaired the infrastructure committee, and Kane served on the development committee. Their service helped Gabriel Homes grow into one of the largest nonprofits serving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in Northern Virginia.
As they step away from the board, the four reflect on their time on the board and Gabriel Homes’ exciting future...
Elaine Bickel:
“Gabriel Homes does a fantastic job with the residents. Our homes show that our residents can do more than people think! I did the bookkeeping in the ‘90s, and I returned in 2016 to help with financial planning and transparency, oversight, and accountability.
“Today, Gabriel Homes has grown tremendously into a strong nonprofit. Our board has met the growing needs by bringing new perspectives into leadership. Since we are evolving, we’ve codified modern bylaws and policies. That way, potential donors can see that Gabriel Homes is up to date with the current trends of large organizations.
“Any organization should have limits for board members. Since serving nine years ago, I’ve reached my natural limit. Officers on any board need to find their successors, and Sarah Carwile is exceptionally qualified with her background in nonprofit auditing. I’m proud of where Gabriel Homes is and am excited for what’s ahead.”
Leslie Kane:
“I’m proud to have followed in the footsteps of my dad, Patrick Kane, who was one of the founders of Gabriel Homes more than 40 years ago. Continuing our family’s legacy of commitment to this incredible organization has been deeply meaningful to me.
“One of my greatest joys during my time on the board has been leading the marketing committee and helping guide the rebranding of Gabriel Homes. From developing our updated logo to supporting the creation of our new website, it has been an honor to shape how we present our mission to the community. I am passionate about spreading awareness of the vital work Gabriel Homes does, and it has been truly rewarding to help expand our reach.
“Although I won’t be supporting Gabriel Homes as a member of the board moving forward, I will always be spreading the word, championing the mission, and sharing the impact Gabriel Homes has on adults of all abilities.
“As I step away at the end of the year, I am grateful for the friendships, the shared dedication to our mission, and the opportunity to contribute to a future where adults of all abilities enjoy independence. Gabriel Homes will always hold a special place in my heart.”
Gary Le Francois:
“Serving on the Gabriel Homes board of directors has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. Since 2013, I’ve spent thousands of hours maintaining our homes so they are safe, comfortable spaces for adults with IDD. Overseeing renovations and handling everyday repairs, I’ve focused on doing the work right and saving the organization money wherever possible. My proudest achievement has been ensuring the homes have the same care, attention, and respect that anyone would want for their family.
“I’m confident that Gabriel Homes is in a strong position for the future. My move away from the board is possible because Gabriel Homes has committed leadership, a clear plan for upkeeping, and a culture that values our residents’ dignity. I am proud to have helped build that foundation.”
Jack Mannion:
“Serving on the Gabriel Homes Board of Directors has been a privilege and honor. While I may have served the residents, they have given me far more in return. Getting to know them and seeing their kindness, creativity, and talents has been a lasting blessing.
“I am proud of many accomplishments during my time on the board, including the creation of a scholarship program to make our services more inclusive and the formation of the volunteer Gabriel Homes Work Crew (GHWC). The GHWC has performed repairs and upgrades to our homes, such as replacing ceiling fans, electrical outlets, and decks. Major renovations, like landscaping, kitchen, and bathroom projects, have only made the homes safer and more comfortable.
“The future is bright for Gabriel Homes because of the dedication and talent of our board and staff, who always prioritize the residents’ needs first. The emergence of the Caregivers’ Support Group will become a valuable resource for input and ideas to improve Gabriel Homes’ services.
“Most of all, the residents make Gabriel Homes the home of independence and possibility. They define and continually shape the heart and future of Gabriel Homes.”
Gabriel Homes welcomed three new members – Kendall Heren, Alex Rough (right), and Nicole Ware – to the board in 2025.
Thinking about joining the board in 2026 and wanting to know your peers? Check out everyone’s bios at gabrielhomes.org. Click Here
More board spotlights:
Four Gabriel Homes Board Members Conclude Service at Year’s End December 4, 2025 Read More
How Fr. Gerry Creedon Put Faith into Action at Gabriel Homes December 3, 2025 Read More
Gabriel Homes Work Crew Turns Skills Into Service October 20, 2025 Read More
Gary Le Francois: Why I Do House Projects for Gabriel Homes October 9, 2025 Read More
Kendall Heren: How Volunteering at Special Olympics Changed My Career Path October 1, 2025 Read More
Sarah Carwile: How Special Olympics Impacts My Board Service September 19, 2025 Read More
Acting As a Fiduciary and Future Planning for Adults With IDD September 5, 2025 Read More
Shalini Kapur: Friendships Made Serving on the Board of Directors September 2, 2025 Read More
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As 2025 comes to a close, many of us reflect on what we’ve accomplished and what has brought us joy.
December is known for bringing a wave of nostalgia as we reflect on our growth.
One of the best years to date.
Angie (left), a resident at Gabriel Homes, fondly looks back on the past 11 months, marking 2025 as one of her favorite and best years to date. Working at ECHO in Leesburg, Angie continues to impress her peers. Her supervisors specifically praise her for her attention to detail when washing dishes.
“I’ve been filling in for coworkers when they’ve been busy, and they appreciate the extra hands. Sometimes, bosses directly ask me for help, so I’m proud to be someone they can trust.”
Angie
At home, Angie has been a leader in doing housework.
She’s quick to clean after she eats and to take out the garbage before trash day. Her favorite meal she’s cooked this year has been the classic grilled cheese with tomato soup.
“Angie makes the home happier when she’s home. Sometimes when she has harder days, I try to be the one who cheers her up!”
Chris
Gabriel Homes Resident, Angie’s Housemate
Sundays have been Angie’s favorite day of the week this year.
She spends each week with friends at Saint John Neumann Catholic Church for Mass. Angie especially looks forward to the Adaptive Religious Education (ARE) program, led by her friends George Dellagiarino and Chris Brasco. ARE meets every two weeks to teach Gospel lessons and discuss their meanings with participants who have disabilities. Angie jokes she also loves the coffee at ARE sessions.
“Lately, we’ve talked about the feeding miracle, where Jesus fed lots of people with bread and fish. I’ve known George and Chris for quite a while. They’re nice and funny, and they make me proud to be Catholic.”
Angie
Following 2025 as one of the best years to date:
Looking forward to 2026, Angie is excited to go out more and spend more time with her friends. She loves mingling with friends during pancake breakfasts at church and in their community, and she’s proud of being more social and active.
“Angie’s going out much more with friends and suggesting new places to visit,” says Naomi Pariona, a program coordinator at Gabriel Homes. “More than ever, she’s taking charge with her choices and taking pride in her independence.”
Naomi Pariona
Program Coordinator, Gabriel Homes
Gabriel Homes was founded on a then-radical idea that adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, like Angie, could live independently.
Learn how our mission and vision become reality at gabrielhomes.org.
Learn MoreMore resident spotlights:
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 Camp Jaycee Shines Over Our Residents’ Summers July 17, 2025 Read More Living on the Beach: Joe’s Sunny Vacations in South Carolina and Delaware July 9, 2025 Read More dddcd
Route 7 Brewing donated and catered an early Thanksgiving dinner for the residents of Gabriel Homes.
Celebrating the residents’ independence, Route 7 Brewing was proud to give back to its community with Thanksgiving in support of Gabriel Homes’ mission.
Executive director Lynn Davis (right) is friends with the owners, at Route 7.
“Ambar reached out to me about catering our Thanksgiving meal. He and I have spoken about Gabriel Homes and he was very interested to get involved.”
Lynn Davis, Executive Director, Gabriel Homes
“Meeting and catering for the residents of Gabriel Homes was such a heartfelt honor for all of us at Route 7 Brewing. Sharing food, conversation, and genuine connection reminded us why we love serving our community. We left feeling grateful, inspired, and deeply humbled by the warmth we experienced.”
Ambar
The two owners and the head chef all stayed to meet the residents and serve the feast.
Hugs and chatter filled the home once everyone arrived: residents checking in with each other, asking how work was going, and seeing what’s new in their lives. January, for instance, gushed over how excited she was for her job’s holiday party. Stephen spoke about how excited he was to see his brother in Florida for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
“I’m off work for the next couple of weeks, so relaxing is the only thing on my mind. Same as Stephen, I’m seeing some family in Florida for Thanksgiving. I’m excited to get out of the cold and into 80-degree weather.” 
Rich D. Gabriel Homes Resident
When the residents saw the spread, their eyes lit up.
Everyone took a bit of everything as they went through the catering. Sam and Sean said they were thankful for turkey this season. Other residents like Gabe and Caryn excitedly loaded their plates with turkey as well.
“Thanksgiving food is always tasty, but this year’s dinner was especially delicious! This year, I’m thankful for beauty, peace, and comfort in the world. The holidays are a good time to celebrate those things.”
Sara, Gabriel Homes Resident
The residents’ bellies may have been full, but their hearts were fuller from being together. At the end of the night, longtime friend Bill Partlow brought his guitar and led one of his famous song sessions for all the residents. Shelby, known for her powerful alto voice, kept the residents on rhythm with maracas singing alongside Bill.
“I’m thankful for all my friends at Gabriel Homes. The food and songs remind me that we’re all family.” 
Chris Gabriel Homes Resident
This Thanksgiving, many residents felt especially thankful for their families.
See how residents’ parents celebrate their milestones in independence at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Learn from our residents’ parents
More spotlights at Gabriel Homes:
Route 7 Brewing Caters Thanksgiving Dinner November 25, 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
Camp Jaycee Shines Over Our Residents’ Summers July 17, 2025 Read More
Living on the Beach: Joe’s Sunny Vacations in South Carolina and Delaware July 9, 2025 Read More
Residents Celebrate Independence on July 4, 2025 July 7, 2025 Read More
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At Gabriel Homes, community means sharing experiences and creating memories together.
Holidays often spark ideas for exploring and enjoying life beyond home.
A Day in the District
In celebration of Veterans Day, several Gabriel Homes residents visited Washington, DC. Rich, Sam, Stephen, and Sean, (left to second-to-right) were in awe of some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Since they had the day off work on November 11, the group felt getting some fresh air at the nation’s capital was far better than lounging around at home.
Gabriel Homes program coordinator Daniel Borges (left), who led the trip, said some residents hadn’t been to the district in years. Unlike recent trips to Harper’s Ferry and Shenandoah National Park, the capital is much closer to Reston. Many of our residents’ neighbors work in DC, so the Veterans Day visit helped them connect where their community is shaped.
“D.C. is much bigger than Reston, so we went through and saw lots of landmarks quickly. You can’t find another place in the world like our nation’s capital!”
Stephen, Gabriel Homes Resident
The group first stopped at the United States Capitol and found the perfect central spot for a photo in front of it. Everyone then made their way to the Washington Monument, followed by the Lincoln Memorial and its reflecting pool, and lastly to the World War II Memorial.
“The Washington Monument was my favorite stop because I like how it looks like a pencil! There were tons of flags around the monument in memory of those who served our country. I felt patriotic seeing them.” Rich Gabriel Homes Resident 
Wrapping up Veterans Day in D.C.
While the residents would’ve loved to keep visiting sites, the weather got colder during one of the windiest days of the year. The group is already looking forward to a future trip where the weather’s warmer and they can see even more sights.
“D.C. was so cold, and I forgot my gloves and hat!” said Sam. “But the car ride was easy, and I was happy to be out with my friends. Daniel did a great job taking us out.”
This year, some of our residents have taken trips all over the country.
See recent adventures to the American Southwest, New Jersey, South Carolina, and more at gabrielhomes.org/stories. See more stories at Gabriel Homes
More spotlights at Gabriel Homes:
Residents Celebrate Veterans Day in Washington, DC November 25, 2025 Read More
Route 7 Brewing Caters Thanksgiving Dinner November 21, 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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Why can’t every day be Christmas?
For some, the season of giving isn’t limited to December. Christmas can also be a source of comfort and connection all year long. At Gabriel Homes, the holiday spirit continues through the passions of our residents.
The Season of Joy
The season of joy lasts all year with John, a resident at Gabriel Homes. John has an extensive collection of Christmas CDs that fills his room with holiday spirit. When his local library carried CDs, John would check out a rotation of different Christmas albums on Sundays. The library stopped carrying CDs when music streaming became more popular, so John started renting Christmas DVDs.
“Christmas is playing 365 days a year with John. When we’re in the car, we’re almost always playing Christmas music and singing along.”
Mark (second photo, right), John’s Dad
John’s favorite type of Christmas music is slow and soothing.
His favorite artist is Nat King Cole, a jazz pianist and R&B singer whose voice NPR calls “liquid, smooth.” Cole’s best-selling “The Magic of Christmas” album sets the cozy mood and gets the most airtime on John’s music player.
“Nat’s voice is relaxing, and the music is timeless,” John says. “I listen to his music over and over. The Christmas album makes my good days better and my tough days easier.”
Celebrating Christmas at the Gabriel Homes Boo Bash
At the 2nd Annual Boo Bash, John brought holiday cheer to the party when he sang “The First Noel” for karaoke. The Christmas joy spread after John’s performance: Sam, another resident, jumped in to sing “Deck the Halls.”
“John’s Christmas spirit is contagious! He loves playing Christmas songs for everyone, and the music brings a cheerful, festive energy throughout the whole home.” 
Kassi Fretty Program Coordinator, Gabriel Homes
Residents at Gabriel Homes decorate their homes for Christmas after Thanksgiving.
See photos of last year’s themed displays at gabrielhomes.org/stories. See Gabriel Homes celebrating Christmas