Photo for Board Member and Golf Enthusiast September 5, 2024 Board Member and Golf Enthusiast View this Post
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You may not believe it, but the 29th annual Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament tees off in just a matter of days!

The fall air is a refreshing seasonal change, and the views of Evergreen Country Club are spectacles with the changing leaves.

Jack Mannion.

Annual Golfer and Golf Enthusiast

One annual golfer, Jack Mannion, serves on the Gabriel Homes Board of Directors. As director of the Health and Welfare Commitee, Jack helps create long-term plans for residents as they age by assessing their physical needs. Directors work to ensure that the homes and resources are in place for their safety and well-being.

“Continuity of care is critical for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Quality care includes the concept of aging in place. I'm impressed with Gabriel Homes’ vision and planning to care for residents as they age. My brother has been a resident for 25 years and is one of the oldest. I'm confident his outstanding care will continue into his golden years.”

Peter, Brother of Gabriel Homes Resident

(Left to right) Jack Mannion, Michele Bolos, Michael Holupka, and a golfer at the annual Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament.

Nearly Lifelong Friends

Jack lived down the street from the former Gabriel Homes chairman, Mike Holupka (second to the right), for over 30 years. The former chair brought Jack on board when he retired from the IRS and sought to give back to the community. Through Gabriel Homes, Jack and the neighbors formed the Gabriel Homes Work Crew to help with the maintenance and upkeep of the homes. The crew also shows up at the golf tournament every year.

“I got into golf when I was in college about 50 years ago and played a few times a year. But after I retired, a group of friends and I were lucky to golf across Ireland and see sites I hadn’t seen before.” Jack Mannion. Jack Mannion Board Member, Gabriel Homes Jack Mannion (right) at the Gabriel Homes golf tournament.

When the weather gets cooler...

... Jack and his wife travel down to Florida to see family. Their condominium is on a golf course, so Jack suits up to golf at least once a week.

“I can walk to the driving range and play almost all the time,” Jack says. “And since my wife and I like to get out of the cold, we like to spend most days on the beach after golfing.”

Members of the board like Jack show up at the Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament every year!

Get to know the Board of Directors before you meet them at gabrielhomes.org

Meet the Board

More stories from our board of directors:

Passion Into Action August 14, 2024 Read More

Legacies Last Generations at Gabriel Homes July 11, 2024 Read More

An Inside Scoop: Get to Know Elaine Bickel June 4, 2024 Read More

Photo for Gabriel Homes Staff Finalists for 2024 DSPY Awards September 4, 2024 Gabriel Homes Staff Finalists for 2024 DSPY Awards View this Post
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Four Gabriel Homes staffers – Reuben, Jackie, Karen, and Essence –

... were selected as finalists in separate categories for the 2nd annual Direct Support Professional of the Year (DSPY) awards. Eleven Gabriel Homes staff were nominated for awards, and the four made the shortlist out of over 400 submissions from providers across Northern Virginia.

Gabriel Homes at the Spring Fling.

Providers nominated direct support professionals who best fit each category’s prompt. A diverse group of volunteers selected by the Northern Virginia Coalition of Providers reviewed submissions for the DSPYs categories.

“Our staff truly see our residents as extended family,” said Lynn Davis, executive director of Gabriel Homes. “They ensure residents have what they need and the support to succeed. It’s hard work, but our staff are committed to our residents and impress me every day!”

For the DSPY awards, Gabriel Homes submitted the following prompts for the four finalists:

Gabriel Homes residents and staff celebrating at a surprise birthday party.

Karen

Community Engagement: How do they seek out unique opportunities for individuals to engage in the community? Do they ensure the dignity of risk? Are they creative and encouraging to find new opportunities and not just opportunities that have been tried before?

“Karen (left) is full of energy and excitement! She has been with our organization for five years and for most of it, she’s covered the weekend and overnight shifts. Weekends have had more opportunities for fun, and Karen has never skipped a beat. If there haven’t been any set plans for residents, she’s initiated fun activities like going to the pool or to a local park for a stroll and outdoor lunch.”

Gabriel Homes staff (left) dancing with resident at surprise birthday party.

Jackie

Compassion: How do they show caring and grace towards individuals even when they may be having challenging behaviors? Do they relate to someone else's situation and offer to help?

“Jackie (left) has been a guiding light and comforting presence with us since 2016. She shows empathy in her work and is always there to support our residents through their successes and struggles.

“Jackie is nonjudgmental, cheers others on, lends a listening ear, gives others space when needed, validates others’ feelings, and helps individuals learn to advocate for themselves. Embodying compassion and grace, Jackie makes us feel so fortunate to have her on our team.”

Reuben with JB, GP, SK.

Reuben

Marathon: Longevity award goes to someone who has been with the organization for 10+ years AND never believes they are done learning and growing. Sees this as a career and not just a job.

“Working with our residents since 1997 hasn’t just been a career, but a calling for Reuben (left). He’s steady and keeps cool in the most stressful situations. He has a listening ear for our residents and is a calming presence when they go through turbulent times. Reuben has been there for our residents’ successes and struggles and has been a support through times of grief and end stages of life. Reuben is the North Star of our team & we are fortunate that he’s dedicated so much of his life to our residents.”

Essence Morgan.

Essence

Positivity: How do they always see the bright side? Do they lift people up instead of breaking them down? How are they the bright spot in gloomy situations?

Essence has the remarkable ability to spread positivity wherever she goes. She stands out as a beacon of light, radiating joy, kindness, and optimism in every interaction. Offering words of encouragement, lending a helping hand, or simply sharing a warm smile, she seamlessly lifts others’ spirits and makes even the darkest days seem a little bit brighter. In a world that can sometimes feel overwhelming, Essence reminds us that a positive outlook can make all the difference.

The DSPYs take place on September 12 in Fairfax to announce the winners. No matter the results, all Gabriel Homes staff are winners in our hearts for empowering our residents and building their independence.

At last year’s inaugural DSPY awards, Gabriel Homes Residential Counselor Afua won for positivity.

As a shining beacon for our residents, she leads with her heart and treats the residents as family. Learn more about Afua’s story at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Meet Afua

The latest stories from Gabriel Homes:

Gabriel Homes Staff Finalists for 2024 DSPY Awards August 27, 2024 Read More

A Conversation With Stephen August 26, 2024 Read More

Community Corner: Boosting Your Brand With Gabriel Homes August 22, 2024 Read More

The Treehouse: August 2024 August 15, 2024 Read More

Community Corner: Ways Siblings of Family Members With IDD Can Empower Themselves August 15, 2024 Read More

Passion Into Action August 14, 2024 Read More

Sisters Share Their Passion for Animals August 13, 2024 Read More

Finding Purpose: Chris’ Journey of Faith and Service August 8, 2024 Read More

Generation to Generation: Paving the Path Toward Success August 1, 2024 Read More

Photo for Kari’s Adventures: Alaska Summer Travel by Sea, Road, and Air September 3, 2024 Kari’s Adventures: Alaska Summer Travel by Sea, Road, and Air View this Post
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Did you know? Alaska is nearly three times the size of Texas!

The many spots around the state draw in countless visitors who travel in the summer. With vast wilderness and landscapes, Alaska summer travel allows visitors to explore towering glaciers and pristine forests.

Reaching every spot the state has to offer is no easy feat, so many, like Kari, use different ways to travel.

Gabriel Homes resident on sea in Alaska.

Winter Wardrobes in Summertime

Beating the summer heat was an easy ask for Kari’s family, so the group planned an early August reunion. Kari’s adventures started abroad: A Princess Cruise set sail from Vancouver and voyaged north toward Alaska. Shipped along the West Coast, the family saw Glacier Bay in Juneau and ended up in College Fjords along the state’s southern coast.

“Going into my closet and pulling out winter clothes in August was strange,” Kari said. “I was in my coat almost the entire trip.”

Hitting the Road

After the cruise, the family changed gears and traveled by road. The gang rented two vans and drove 2.5 hours from Anchorage to the port city of Seward. Spending three days in Seward, Kari’s mom Linda said Kenai Fjords National Park was her favorite part. The family saw sea otters, seals, and whales off the peninsula.

At this point in the summer vacation, Kari traveled by sea and road. The last way to travel across Alaska was by air!

Gabriel Homes resident on helicopter in Alaska.

Reaching New Heights

Everyone packed into the vans leaving Seward and drove four hours north to Talkeetna, a former gold mining town. Traveling roughly two hours north to Denali, the family flew on a 10-passenger sightseeing plane to Mt. Denali and landed on a glacier.

“Mt. Denali was my favorite part of the trip by far,” Kari said. “Flying on a small plane and landing on a glacier was scary at the time, but I would do the ride all over again.”

After two weeks, the family reunion had wrapped up.

Everyone flew their separate ways home, and Kari returned to Reston safe and sound with timeless memories.

Back in Reston, new memories are made at Gabriel Homes every day!

Learn about what a day in the life might look like as a resident at gabrielhomes.org

Read about a day in the life

More resident spotlights at Gabriel Homes:

Gabriel Homes Chases Thrills at Kings Dominion August 28, 2024 Read More

A Conversation With Stephen August 26, 2024 Read More

Community Corner: Ways Siblings of Family Members With IDD Can Empower Themselves August 15, 2024 Read More

Sisters Share Their Passion for Animals August 13, 2024 Read More

Finding Purpose: Chris’ Journey of Faith and Service August 8, 2024 Read More

Generation to Generation: Paving the Path Toward Success August 1, 2024 Read More

Sean’s Enchanted Journey: A Dash of Magic July 31, 2024 Read More

Baseball Builds Beautiful Bonds July 22, 2024 Read More

Photo for Gabriel Homes Chases Thrills at Kings Dominion August 28, 2024 Gabriel Homes Chases Thrills at Kings Dominion View this Post
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School may be back in session, but summer stays stuck on everyone’s minds.

In early August, several Gabriel Homes residents visited Kings Dominion.

Gabriel Homes residents at Kings Dominion.

Adrenaline for All Comfort Levels

John, Rich, Lucy, and Darcy (left to right) traveled to Kings Dominion at the beginning of the month, while January, Sean, and Stephen visited a week later. The amusement park, known for some of the wildest thrills on the Atlantic Coast, offers rides for every comfort level.

The first four were looking forward to the easygoing rides. John, Rich, and Lucy went on the Americana, a 110-foot Ferris wheel that oversaw almost the entire park. Darcy had fun on Boo Blasters on Boo Hill because the ride was engaging and indoors.

“I like to stay close to the ground on rides, so I was most comfortable with Boo Blasters. The ride kept me active since I was focused on the ghosts, and going inside the haunted house was a much-needed break from the heat outside.” Gabriel Homes resident with her sister at Frying Pan Park in Herndon. Darcy Gabriel Homes Resident

Gabriel Homes resident posing with Lucy at Kings Dominion.
Gabriel Homes Executive Director Lynn Davis with a resident on the ferris wheel at Kings Dominion.
Gabriel Homes residents at Kings Dominion.
Gabriel Homes residents posing with Snoopy at Kings Dominion.
Gabriel Homes resident in front of a Snoopy bush at Kings Dominion.

Gabriel Homes resident posing with Lucy at Kings Dominion.

Childhood Classics

When you look around Kings Dominion, you quickly notice the Peanuts characters in the park and on rides. Many residents love familiar faces like Snoopy and Charlie Brown, and Lucy was happy to snap a picture with one of her favorites – Lucy!

Gabriel Homes residents posing with Snoopy at Kings Dominion.

Upping the Intensity

Looking at the rest of the park, January (right) especially looked forward to the intense rides. One of the most famous rides at Kings Dominion, the Dominator, has one of the tallest loops in the world at 135 feet. She looked rattled when she stepped off the ride, but she was buzzing about the thrills once she was walking around the park.

“I love the adrenaline and excitement when I ride rollercoasters here,” said January. “Whether I ride wooden or steel rides, I enjoy them all the same.”

January and Stephen also went on Twisted Timbers, a wooden rollercoaster with the highest thrill level. There may not be loops on wooden rides, but the duo enjoyed a 109-foot barrel roll drop after a long buildup.

Once everyone was ready to head home, the residents reflected on their favorite parts of the day. 

“The bumper cars were my favorite part by far. John was my passenger in the car. I knew the goal was to hit the other cars, but I didn't want to hurt anybody when I drove!” Gabriel Homes resident holding birthday card. Rich Gabriel Homes Resident

Summer may be sunsetting, but residents are set for bright adventures this fall.

Catch the latest news from Gabriel Homes at gabrielhomes.org/stories.

Catch up on the latest

A Day in the Life at Gabriel Homes:

Sisters Share Their Passion for Animals August 13, 2024 Read More

Finding Purpose: Chris’ Journey of Faith and Service August 8, 2024 Read More

Sean’s Enchanted Journey: A Dash of Magic July 31, 2024 Read More

Baseball Builds Beautiful Bonds July 22, 2024 Read More

Fast, Efficient, and Quality Cleaning June 20, 2024 Read More

Community Corner: You’ve Got a Friend in Me June 9, 2024 Read More

Lifting Spirits and Fostering Friendships June 6, 2024 Read More

True Strength in Men: Positive Male Spaces May 30, 2024 Read More

Photo for A Conversation With Stephen August 26, 2024 A Conversation With Stephen View this Post
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At Gabriel Homes, residents from our six homes come from all walks of life.

Everybody has unique stories, and their chapters continue with no two days looking the same.

Gabriel Homes resident sitting on a boat on a local lake.

20+ Years of Community

Stephen (front) has been a resident with Gabriel Homes since February of 2000. He works at ECHO Barkery, a dog biscuit bakery led by workers with disabilities. According to their website, Stephen’s favorite biscuits to make are peanut butter ones!

Gabriel Homes caught up with Stephen recently to talk about his life and family. Here’s what he had to say:

Gabriel Homes residents sitting around the table for an Easter dinner.

Where did you grow up?

“Oh, I’m a New Yorker! My mom is from Queens and my dad is from Brooklyn. My brother Peter and I call Long Island home, though. My brother is a few years older than me, and I look up to him to this day. I still remember seeing him in “Oklahoma!” when we were kids. 

“My brother lives out in Florida today, and I like seeing him when I get the chance. Family is important to us, so I’m happy we keep in touch a lot and have a good relationship.”

Gabriel Homes resident sitting on a boat at a local lake.

What’s one of your favorite hobbies?

“I really like music. My bedroom has a huge stack of CDs I’ve collected over the years. The top of the rack has Frank Sinatra and the Rat Pack. Dean Martin, Sammy Davis – all those guys are great singers. I play their music so much that my Rat Pack CD is broken, so I need to replace it soon.

“I also put on lots of old clips of Johnny Carson. Years later, I play his episodes on repeat and never get bored. I don’t think anybody can do talk shows the same way Johnny did them.”

Gabriel Homes residents celebrating being on a boat at a local lake.

What are your favorite sports?

“I can't play sports well at my age, so I prefer to watch them. My brother is a George Mason University grad, so we see the basketball team when he’s in town.

“But the Olympics were fun this year! The men’s and women’s basketball teams both came down to the last shots, and I couldn’t look away from the TV. Volleyball was also a blast to watch. I was disappointed that the U.S. came up short, but I had fun watching every game.”

New memories are made every day at Gabriel Homes.

Catch up on all the latest from our residents at gabrielhomes.org/stories.

See our stories

The latest news from Gabriel Homes:

Community Corner: Boosting Your Brand With Gabriel Homes August 22, 2024 Read More

The Treehouse: August 2024 August 15, 2024 Read More

Gabriel Homes Residents Sweep Powerlifting States Competition July 25, 2024 Read More

The Treehouse: July 2024 July 15, 2024 Read More

Home Runs Highlight Special Olympics Softball July 9, 2024 Read More

Announcement: Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament 2024 Registration is Now Live July 1, 2024 Read More

Gabriel Homes Celebrates 42nd Birthday! June 25, 2024 Read More

Waiting for a Developmental Disability Waiver? Here’s the Process: June 25, 2024 Read More

Dinosaurs, ABBA, and Snickers Cheesecake June 13, 2024 Read More

Photo for Community Corner: Boosting Your Brand With Gabriel Homes August 22, 2024 Community Corner: Boosting Your Brand With Gabriel Homes View this Post
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When companies sponsor nonprofits, customers are more likely to trust them.

Chris Powell, chief technology officer at NT Concepts, giving a testimonial for why he sponsors Gabriel Homes.

The Gabriel Homes Guardian Angel sponsors...

... make up many types of industries like construction, technology, religious groups, and more.

Many companies partner with Gabriel Homes to get their names out in the community and network with all types of organizations.

With the 29th annual Gabriel Homes golf tournament teeing off September 16, excitement is heating up from players and partners alike. Chris Powell, chief technology officer at NT Concepts, shared why he’s excited to golf and why other companies should become Gabriel Homes sponsors:

Register External Link

“It’s important, I think, for every corporate organization to find ways to give back to the local community. Get involved, not only to get to know Gabriel Homes but also to come out and play a fun round of golf.” Chris Powell, chief technology officer at NT Concepts, giving a testimonial for why he sponsors Gabriel Homes. Chris Powell Chief Technology Officer, NT Concepts https://www.gabrielhomes.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/2024.08.16-chris-powell-golf-testimonial-v1.mp4

Are you ready to become a sponsor with Gabriel Homes?

Go to the golf tournament’s registration page and choose your sponsor tier at checkout.

Sponsor with us External Link

The latest from our community:

View All

Community Corner: Boosting Your Brand With Gabriel Homes August 22, 2024 Read More

Community Corner: Ways Siblings of Family Members With IDD Can Empower Themselves August 15, 2024 Read More

Community Corner: It’s An Annual Tradition! July 12, 2024 Read More

Community Corner: You’ve Got a Friend in Me June 9, 2024 Read More

Community Reacts to the New Gabrielhomes.org April 25, 2024 Read More

Community Corner: The Importance of Independence for Adults With IDD April 24, 2024 Read More

Photo for The Treehouse: August 2024 August 15, 2024 The Treehouse: August 2024 View this Post
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The Latest...

Gabriel Homes resident with her sister at Frying Pan Park in Herndon.

Sisters Share Their Passion for Animals

Animals are a shared passion in Darcy's family. Darcy can share facts about any animal you show her, and her sister Chelsea works at the Animal Welfare League of Arlington.

More on Darcy

More photos of Darcy at Frying Pan Park

Gabriel Homes resident with her sister at Frying Pan Park in Herndon.
Gabriel Homes resident at Frying Pan Park in Herndon.
Gabriel Homes resident with her sister at Frying Pan Park in Herndon.
Gabriel Homes resident at Frying Pan Park in Herndon.
Gabriel Homes resident with her sister at Frying Pan Park in Herndon.
Gabriel Homes resident with her sister at Frying Pan Park in Herndon.
Gabriel Homes resident with her sister at Frying Pan Park in Herndon.
Gabriel Homes resident with her sister at Frying Pan Park in Herndon.
Gabriel Homes resident at Frying Pan Park in Herndon.

Are your friends and family missing out on news from Gabriel Homes?​

If they're not getting our emails, send them our newsletter signup form! Copy and paste the link and share it as a text or email so everyone can catch up on the latest news from Gabriel Homes.

Also remember to follow us on social media and repost your favorite stories!

Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter Threads Gabriel Homes resident with stepfather.

Sports are a home run with Gabe and Bob

Gabe and his father make regular trips to Nats Park to see their favorite team play ball. The best game days are when the whole family visits from out of town and joins them at the ballpark.

More on Gabe

Gabriel Homes resident by Steamboat.

Sean Gets a Dash of Magic at Disney World

Sean recently traveled to Disney World with his aunt. He rode endless rides in the Magic Kingdom and met Disney icons like Mickey Mouse and Cinderella.

More on Sean's trip

Community Corner

"Reach out to others and think creatively about how you can help your sibling in every aspect of their lives. Gabriel Homes does a fantastic job explaining challenges and showing solutions, so our sibling gets the help they need."

Chip, Sibling of a Gabriel Homes Resident

Read from siblings of our residents

We want to hear from you!

Do you have a favorite memory with Gabriel Homes? Do you have advice for family members? If there's something you've been longing to share, now is your chance! Email Lynn with your story or idea.

Spotlights

Board Spotlight

Gabriel Homes Board Member Gary (center) with two residents.

Gary Le Francois

As director of the Infrastructure Committee, Gary serves Gabriel Homes with 50+ years of experience in the trades. His son Sam (right) has been a resident with us since 2000!

“I get paid in feeling good and giving back to my son, so I make sure these homes are strong for decades.”

-Gary

More on Gary

Staff Spotlights

PIrrein and Reuben's family.

Reuben Sidifall and Pierrein Kamdarie

Family runs through Gabriel Homes staff as well! Reuben (front, center) has supported our residents since 1997, and his daughter Pierrein (back, second to the left) has been with Gabriel Homes since 2020. Both have different insights on leadership, but serving others is the core of their family.

Read their full story

Upcoming Dates

September 16 - Gabriel Homes Annual Golf Tournament.

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: FacebookLinkedInInstagramTwitterThreads.

We appreciate donations of any amounts

Consider making a donation to Gabriel Homes today.

Donate External Link

More stories from Gabriel Homes:

Community Corner: Ways Siblings of Family Members With IDD Can Empower Themselves August 15, 2024 Read More

Passion Into Action August 14, 2024 Read More

The Treehouse: August 2024 August 14, 2024 Read More

Sisters Share Their Passion for Animals August 13, 2024 Read More

Finding Purpose: Chris’ Journey of Faith and Service August 8, 2024 Read More

Generation to Generation: Paving the Path Toward Success August 1, 2024 Read More

Sean’s Enchanted Journey: A Dash of Magic July 31, 2024 Read More

Gabriel Homes Residents Sweep Powerlifting States Competition July 25, 2024 Read More

Baseball Builds Beautiful Bonds July 22, 2024 Read More

Ladies’ Night Celebrates Asian Culture July 16, 2024 Read More

Photo for Community Corner: Ways Siblings of Family Members With IDD Can Empower Themselves August 15, 2024 Community Corner: Ways Siblings of Family Members With IDD Can Empower Themselves View this Post
dddcd Gabriel Homes board and resident.

Strength as Siblings

Research finds that siblings of someone with intellectual and developmental disabilities are likely to be more empathetic toward others.

At Gabriel Homes, Inc. (GHI), we understand the importance of having a loving, balanced family environment. If you’re a sibling of someone with IDD, here are some ways you can best support them and empower yourself.

Family at Gabriel Homes holiday party.

Education at an Early Age:

With the speed of the internet and extensive IDD resources like The Arc of Northern Viriginia, IDD information communities are forming every day online and in-person. Spaces with families and experts can help you learn more about your sibling and IDD.

“Support groups for young siblings are important because everyone has different questions for all types of disabilities,” says Gina, the sister of a GHI resident. “Children may not understand Down syndrome, so groups can educate siblings on the condition and show them how to be supportive.”

John, Kari, John, and January at the golf tournament.

Self-Growth:

Many siblings of residents at Gabriel Homes credit their family members for making them more resilient. They continue to better advocate for their siblings and prepare them for challenges in other areas of life. Use your compassion to empower yourself and others.

“My sibling was always a positive influence on me,” says Dwight, brother of a GHI resident. “When I ran into difficult situations with school or sports, I thought of them because I knew they could overcome it. My sibling made me a better person and more accepting of people with all abilities.”

Plan for the Future:

Prepare your siblings for future changes and responsibilities. Include all your family in long-term planning discussions to delegate future roles and potential caretaking tasks. 

“You’re going to need help. Reach out to others and think creatively about how you can help your sibling in every aspect of their lives. Gabriel Homes does a fantastic job explaining challenges and showing solutions, so our sibling gets the help they need.”

Chip, Sibling of a GHI Resident

At Gabriel Homes, we believe in supporting adults with IDD and their families. With loving and empathetic communities, everyone can thrive together.

Are you looking to become a resident at Gabriel Homes?

Learn more about eligibility and the application process.

Become a resident

Recent stories from the community:

Community Corner: Ways Siblings of Family Members With IDD Can Empower Themselves August 15, 2024 Read More Community Corner: It’s An Annual Tradition! July 12, 2024 Read More Community Corner: You’ve Got a Friend in Me June 9, 2024 Read More
Photo for Passion Into Action August 14, 2024 Passion Into Action View this Post
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Parents who serve on nonprofit boards can bring firsthand insights into the organization’s needs, especially if it affects their children.

Boards with members from all walks of life can produce stronger leaders and better advocates for causes they care about.

Gabriel Homes board member Gary (left) with two residents, including his son (center).

As a board member since 2013 and director of the Gabriel Homes Infrastructure Committee...

... Gary Le Francois puts hundreds of hours into house projects each year. He knows the six homes inside and out and can creatively fix any problem with his 50 years of trades experience. But he brings his skills to Gabriel Homes for a reason: His son Sam is one of our residents!

“When I joined the board, I was ready to give back, and I had the skills to do the maintenance. I get to do what I love, from engineering to heating and more.” Gary Le Francois Gary Board Member, Gabriel Homes P1030500

Hands-On and Cooperative

Gary was able to take on more house projects after he retired from Transwestern in 2018. He handled smaller projects like faucet repairs and door installations and hired contractors with Gabriel Homes for large-scale renovations.

“Gary’s extensive industry knowledge and eye for detail has ensured that our projects run smoothly, on time, and on budget,” says Lynn Davis, executive director of Gabriel Homes. “If he sees something that impacts the final project early on, he can call it out quickly.”

Using his trade skills when thinking as a father, Gary aims to keep using his knowledge and background to make the homes safe and accessible.

“I like seeing my dad when he stops at my house. He does a lot of work around the house, and everything he does looks great!”

Sam, Gabriel Homes Resident
Gabriel Homes Board Member Gary doing home renovations for Gabriel Homes.

Gary is committed to helping his son and other residents live happy, independent lives.

By keeping the homes in tip-top shape, he proves a bit of labor can make a generational impact on the community.

“There are so many things to be grateful for if you volunteer,” Gary says. “I get paid in feeling good and giving back to my son, so I make sure these homes are strong for decades.”

Our six homes rest in the hearts of the Herndon and Reston communities.

Check out each home and their different amenities!

See our homes

More stories from the board of directors:

Passion Into Action August 14, 2024 Read More Legacies Last Generations at Gabriel Homes July 11, 2024 Read More An Inside Scoop: Get to Know Elaine Bickel June 4, 2024 Read More
Photo for Sisters Share Their Passion for Animals August 13, 2024 Sisters Share Their Passion for Animals View this Post
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When you spend time with animals, you strengthen communication and responsibility skills.

Many who grow up with pets learn their unique needs, like how to feed, shelter, and care for them.

Gabriel Homes resident with her sister at Frying Pan Park in Herndon.

Central to Their Childhoods

Animals have been central to Darcy and her family their entire lives. Point to any animal you find while hiking, and Darcy can come up with fun facts about the creature you ran into.

“I feel calmer when I’m around animals,” Darcy says. “Sometimes, when I don't feel like doing anything, I pet them, and then they can bring the best out of me.”

Gabriel Homes resident with her sister at Frying Pan Park in Herndon.

Across the Pond...

Darcy grew up with dogs, cats, and birds at home, and her family spent about 11 years living on a farm outside of Yorkshire, England.

“My sister Chelsea and I almost got in trouble when we played with the sheep,” Darcy says, laughing. “We learned that we had to never touch the sheep when they were pregnant, and we had to run away if the mother was taking care of her lambs!”

Chelsea, whose similar passions led her to working at the Animal Welfare League of Arlington, often takes her sister to Frying Pan Park in Herndon.

The family-friendly park hosts farm animals like horses, pigs, and goats, and the sisters try to pet them when they have the chance.

“Seeing the animals with my sister brings us closer together. When I foster animals for work, Darcy can take some responsibility off my shoulders and care for them. I learn more from her every time she visits Mom and me.”

Chelsea

Gabriel Homes resident with her sister at Frying Pan Park in Herndon.

There are also many events for visitors, including horseback riding for people with IDD.

Darcy says riding can be therapeutic for people with disabilities because the activity improves social and emotional well-being.

“I’ve been riding at the park for over ten years,” Darcy says. “Some of the riders are children, and many look up to me as an expert with horses.”

Once she’s home from riding or work, Darcy often pulls up YouTube and watches National Geographic and Dr. Pol during her downtime. Just as Gabriel Homes learns more about animals through Darcy, she learns something new about them every day.

Our residents are involved in the Herndon/Reston community in endless ways.

You're likely to meet somebody new in the local religious groups or sports leagues! Learn about the residents’ various interests at gabrielhomes.org/stories.

Learn More

The latest from Gabriel Homes:

Sisters Share Their Passion for Animals August 13, 2024 Read More

Passion Into Action August 13, 2024 Read More

Finding Purpose: Chris’ Journey of Faith and Service August 8, 2024 Read More

Generation to Generation: Paving the Path Toward Success August 1, 2024 Read More

Sean’s Enchanted Journey: A Dash of Magic July 31, 2024 Read More

Gabriel Homes Residents Sweep Powerlifting States Competition July 25, 2024 Read More

Baseball Builds Beautiful Bonds July 22, 2024 Read More

Ladies’ Night Celebrates Asian Culture July 16, 2024 Read More

The Treehouse: July 2024 July 15, 2024 Read More

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