Any nonprofit looking to steer itself toward success needs a quality board of directors. One crucial team member, the treasurer, helps create annual budgets and plan financial rollouts for long-term projects.
When Past Meets Present
It’s especially helpful when your treasurer already knows your organization’s lay of the land. Elaine Bickel returned to Gabriel Homes to assume the treasurer role in 2016 after working there in the early 1990s.
Gabriel Homes caught up with Elaine recently to share her story. See what we talked about below:
Get to Know Elaine:
How did you first get involved with Gabriel Homes?
“I originally joined Gabriel Homes as a part-time bookkeeper. My children were little, so I couldn't leave home much. I set up Gabriel Homes’ accounting structure, and tasks included many of the usual things: taxes, financial advisory, and check recording.
“Gabriel Homes had four properties at the time, so the most exciting days were the purchases of new homes and the growth of the organization.”
What brought you back to Gabriel Homes?
“The former executive director called me about 20 years after I returned to full-time work asking if I could fill in as treasurer for the board of directors. Returning was a full-circle moment: I was amazed how Gabriel Homes oversaw its team and finances, and it was cool to see the growth from the structure I set up.
“Organizations face new challenges when they grow. Gabriel Homes grew to a point where the bookkeeping and recording got more sophisticated. Coming back, I was glad to see everything at a point where the budget, expenses, and fundraising were so robust. The work became even more exciting.”
What at Gabriel Homes has impressed you the most?
“I have been so pleased to see the growth since serving on the board. Gabriel Homes has taken the step it needed to so it could build a foundation for the future. Codifying and standardizing the processes has made the organization even more refined. I’ve been proud of everything the board has done to make change happen.”
What makes numbers and accounting exciting in your eyes?
“They tell stories. You learn about how an organization is doing at a point in time and how fundraising is going. The numbers at Gabriel Homes show the story of its growth – the growing number of residents and properties and how long both have been part of us.
“Accounting also shares the story of the health of the business. All homes need upkeeping like repairs and renovations, so the books show how we maintain our houses.
“Gabriel Homes’ story shows we have an obligation to the families to make sure we’re being wise with the money we receive from them and the state. Fortunately, the story also proves we’re in a place where we can hire who we need.”
What do you like about serving on the board?
“Not many people want to serve as treasurer for boards of directors. For me, bookkeeping keeps my mind sharp, so it’s the perfect way for me to give back. I love doing the books so much that I also do them at Great Falls Little League even though my kids haven’t played in years.
“You need lots of discipline serving nonprofits like Gabriel Homes, though, because you need to make sure the residents are supported and have what they need. Success requires boards with visions for the future, including strategic plans and business decisions, so I believe I bring the ability to see the forest from the trees.
“But ultimately, I love giving back to my community. I’ve lived in Northern Virginia for 25 years, and I love the people and community here.”
What’s something the community should know about adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities?
“When you get to know the residents, you realize they’re not much different from you or me. They may have some limitations, but they’re funny and friendly, and they work and play. Some residents have unique talents like art.
“Adults with IDD have strengths people may not see. Our community is enriched by getting involved with our residents and people similar to them around the county.”
What interests do you have outside of Gabriel Homes?
“I love seeing my grandchildren the most and seeing them change in every stage of life. They live locally and are my heartbeat.
“I also have family in New York City, so I have the chance to see them in lots of Broadway shows. When I watch musicals, I admire the voices and performances, especially when I can get enraptured by what goes on onstage. Theatre is like an escape: Even my young nieces and nephews have been bitten by the performing bug.
“Another spectacle to me is hockey. As a big Caps fan, I try to see the action when I can. My son skated through college, so he got me hooked on ice sports.”
Get to know the entire board of directors at gabrielhomes.org.
The Latest From Gabriel Homes:
Community Corner: You’ve Got a Friend in Me June 9, 2024 Read More
Dinosaurs, ABBA, and Snickers Cheesecake June 6, 2024 Read More
An Inside Scoop: Get to Know Elaine Bickel June 4, 2024 Read More
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When men come together and support one another, they can better take care of themselves and create more respectful cultures for all genders. Every Tuesday night, the gentlemen from Gabriel Homes #3 (GH3) meet everyone at #1 (GH1) for men’s night.
Rest & Relaxation
The men tend to sit together and catch up on how the week has started for them. Since the nights usually start around 5, many talk about what they did at work. Some residents like John play music for the group to wind down after long days.
“I like playing Nat King Cole because his music is slow but happy,” said John. “I like when my friends ask me to take my headphones off so we can listen together.”
Meals are always a hit on men’s nights. Sean takes the lead preparing dinners every Tuesday evening. The meal of the night is a familiar favorite with best friends – grilled ham and cheese sandwiches with tomato soup.
I can be more comfortable and relax more on men’s nights. Then it’s fun to see if I can set new records when I lift after dinner. 
Sean Gabriel Homes Resident 
Off to Training!
After everyone cleans up, the athletes head off to IMP Fitness for another night of training. Most of the group trains together for powerlifting tournaments. The athletes who compete change into T-shirts and sweatpants and put on their powerlifting belts and gloves when they hang out together.
“Tuesday nights are one of my favorite nights of the week,” said Chris, a Gabriel Homes resident. “After powerlifting, I look forward to it next week because these guys are some of my best friends!”
See more stories about residents having fun with their friends at gabrielhomes.org.
Gabriel Homes Crushes Powerlifting Competition May 28, 2024 Read More
A Day of Ducks and Delight May 24, 2024 Read More
True Strength in Men: Positive Male Spaces May 23, 2024 Read More
A Brush of Genius May 20, 2024 Read More
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In a Special Olympics powerlifting tournament in Manassas, Gabriel Homes residents showed up in full force with first- and second-place finishes.
Champion's Routine
Residents train every Tuesday evening at IMP Fitness, where coaches like Seth Abrams, Tim Figueroa, and Bill Whiteside push their weight limits. Abrams and Whiteside have been involved with the Special Olympics for over a decade and are leaders for competitors.
I see these guys working hard and challenging themselves at practice. To see them compete and do their best is the ultimate rush.
Bill Whiteside
Gold and Silver Medals Galore
Residents showed up strong in the push-pull event. In this category, participants did bench presses and deadlifts. Relative to their weight class, champions are crowned based on the total amount they can lift.
John and Chris finished first and second place in their weight class respectively, and Joe took home the gold in a separate class.
“It wasn’t easy doing the lift, but I’m proud of myself for getting strong enough to do it,” Joe said.
On the other hand, the three-event powerlift includes the squat, bench press, and deadlift. For this competition, Sam, Patrick, and Sean had first- place finishes in their weight classes.
See our residents crushing the competition!
Patrick
Gabriel Homes Resident
On to the Next Competition
Sights are already set for the next powerlifting competition, but the residents are taking in the moment before they return to training.
“Not only do the Special Olympics keep residents healthy, but they are also excellent social and morale boosters,” Whiteside said, whose son also participates in Special Olympics tournaments. "The excitement and happiness they show when competing fills your heart with pride for their accomplishments.”
Read more sports stories and activities featuring the residents!
Gabriel Homes Crushes Powerlifting Competition May 28, 2024 Read More A Striking Success March 2, 2024 Read More Special Olympics Powerlifting February 24, 2024 Read More dddcd
As the old saying goes, birthdays only come once a year! One resident, Darcy, celebrated her birthday with her housemates.
What are birthdays like at Gabriel Homes?
Birthdays at Gabriel Homes are usually planned more than three weeks in advance to give residents the times of their lives on their special days. Residents share what types of parties they want to have. Similar to birthdays you’ve had, many parties are based on themes, and the staff work together to plan food and locations.
Darcy, a big fan of animals, had a birthday party centered around them. She and the group went to Lake Throreau and saw geese, ducks, mallards, and turtles. Darcy followed with some fun facts about mallards and geese.
Did you know? Mallards make nests on dry land near water, in fields, under plants, and even on floating mats or in nest boxes.
Kari, Darcy’s roommate, said she liked seeing all the different birds.
Everyone gathered to see and try to interact with the animals. Lucy, another resident, was a huge help in getting everyone involved with them. Darcy was hesitant about getting close to the animals, but she eventually enjoyed seeing the ducks swim toward her.
The party went home after the lake. Darcy put on her favorite music genre, country rock, and the house enjoyed some favorite snacks including popcorn, sparkling cider, and PB&J sandwiches. After eating, Darcy opened her presents. Gifts included a stuffed Olaf from the movie Frozen and Goodnight Mister Tom, a favorite movie from her childhood.
The night wrapped up with the house singing “Happy Birthday” to Darcy, and everyone cleaned up before winding down for the night.
https://www.gabrielhomes.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/IMG_8090.mp4 “I truly enjoy celebrating the residents’ birthdays. It’s rewarding seeing their big smiles when the evenings come together." 
Naomi Pariona Program Coordinator, Gabriel Homes
Birthdays are only the tip of the iceberg in one day in the lives of our residents.
Visit gabrielhomes.org to learn more.
See more stories from Gabriel Homes!
Dinosaurs, ABBA, and Snickers Cheesecake June 13, 2024 Read More
Community Corner: You’ve Got a Friend in Me June 9, 2024 Read More
The Treehouse: June 2024 June 5, 2024 Read More
An Inside Scoop: Get to Know Elaine Bickel June 4, 2024 Read More
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Making art is not only a beautiful way of expressing yourself — it can be therapeutic for your mental health. Many, including Gabriel Homes residents, became da Vincis themselves and channeled their feelings into art during COVID-19 lockdowns.
An Artist With The Eye
One resident has had a particular eye for painting. Sam has made roughly a dozen works featured in our former newsletter and social media. Other pieces have hung across the home.
“I like painting objects with rainbows because it’s fun to change up the colors,” Sam said, holding up one canvas featuring a rainbow-colored tree. “The rainbows look their best when I paint dark backgrounds because they stand out.”
Sam was exposed to art when he was young because his mother had a background in history and art. The family often visited museums when they traveled, so Sam was exposed to art worldwide.
“Sam’s mom was like our personal docent,” said Gary, Sam’s stepfather. “Sam always enjoyed coloring and painting, so we supported him in all his endeavors.”
Your Support Makes the Art Possible
Gabriel Homes received the art supplies thanks to a generous donation by Mike Flynn, an art teacher and Gabriel Homes Work Crew member. He brought canvases, acrylic paintbrushes, and other items to help the residents with their paintings.
“Their work shows there’s something inside themselves that’s able to come out of themselves,” Mike said. “The residents produce amazing works, and they succeed as long as they have the tools to create them.”
Have any items you’d like to share with residents? Or do you want to purchase art supplies for them?
Be a part of change and learn about how you can donate to Gabriel Homes. Learn More
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When the community rallies around you, success follows.
Rich, a long-time employee at Giant Food and resident at Gabriel Homes, celebrated his promotion to a full-time employee. A popular face across Fairfax County, Rich has worked at Giant for 15 years and is loved by everyone.
Like many, he uses MetroAccess to work. However, he doesn’t follow the regular Monday-to-Friday schedule; he instead works Thursday to Monday like his housemate, John.
“It feels great to be celebrated this way. I’ve made many friends with my coworkers and the shoppers at Giant, so they’ve made me love my work."
Rich
Resident at Gabriel Homes
His career has taken off with the support of his job coach. Coaches work hands-on with their clients to guide and encourage them as they navigate the workplace.
“Rich is so independent that our monthly meetings are more like catching up with friends. His aura is felt by everyone. I admire Rich for his optimistic nature and willingness to tackle new and different tasks.”
Olivia, job coach at Didlake
A True Friend
One of Rich’s biggest strengths during his shifts is how he lifts everyone’s spirits. Some Giant customers have built friendships with him by being regular shoppers for years.
“The man, the myth, the legend!” said Frank, a Fairfax County resident and Giant shopper. “Rich is one of my family’s favorite people. Every time I see him, the first thing he says is ‘How’s your family?’ followed by a hug.”
A Team Player
Since his tenure at Giant, Rich has become an expert at package pickups, cart returns, and customer service assistance.
“Rich has been a terrific asset to the Giant Food team,” said Youseff Gergis, manager at Giant. “I appreciate his important support role, and his long tenure is a testament to his work ethic. Customers love him!”
A Symbol of Independence
Rich’s story at Giant shows how residents work and have fun in the Herndon/Reston area. He is a close friend to many, and his life showcases what Gabriel Homes wants: for the residents to live on their own and have support from their community.
“I call Rich a friend because he’s warm, loving, and inspiring,” Frank said. “When I drive out of the parking lot, I realize I still have a smile on my face.”
Now that you know what work is like...
...learn more about a day in the life of our residents.
Learn More dddcd
Welcome to The Treehouse!
Because of your support, adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities are able to live independent lives.
You may have donated to us, attended golf tournaments, or had a family member or friend from the Gabriel Homes community. We’re now excited to bring everyone together and celebrate your work through our new monthly newsletter. With stories on our residents and recaps of popular events, The Treehouse is your exclusive look into Gabriel Homes. You won’t want to miss every edition.
Thank you for supporting Gabriel Homes and empowering our 20+ residents. Join us in staying connected with all things Gabriel Homes.
Lynn Davis
Executive Director, Gabriel Homes
We Want Your Feedback!
If there's anything you'd like to see in The Treehouse or if you have any questions about the newsletter, then email your letter to the editor! We welcome all feedback, whether it's about content or format, so The Treehouse feels like a place you can call home.
The Latest...
Visit the New Gabrielhomes.org
The new website launched earlier last month. Now information on our services and homes is available at your fingertips. Then check out our stories that spotlight the residents and celebrate our community.
Read moreGabriel Homes Holds First-Ever Spring Fling
Residents showed up in their finest attire, and some brought their plus-ones. The night had so much energy and fun that residents are already asking about the next party. Read about the unforgettable night at gabrielhomes.org.
John Celebrates 30 Years Working at Walmart
One resident, John, steps up to every task. He delivers food at the bakery, helps with returns at customer service, and does everything in-between.
"My coworkers told me, if they didn't have me, Walmart would fall apart."
-John
More on John's workCommunity Corner
From the parent of a resident:
"Give your family member with IDD the opportunity to live independently as soon as possible. They may make mistakes, but they'll also learn and grow from them. You'll be surprised how bright they are when you give them a chance."
-Linda
Linda's storyWe 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
Michele Bolos
Michele's leadership and vision were vital in launching the new website. As chair of the board, Michele led the charge using her background in website design.
"I wanted the website to come alive with the stories from our residents. When you dive into the stories on our website, you find it easy to have a great first impression."
-Michele
Read more about Michele at gabrielhomes.org.
Meet MicheleStaff Spotlight
Afua Yankobah
Joining Gabriel Homes in 2014, Afua is a beacon of empowerment and positivity. Her bright outlook on leadership led to her receiving the positivity award from the Northern Virginia Coalition of Providers last year at their inaugural awards celebration.
Afua is an amazing example of how independence and success are possible when strong leaders support you.
"Everything comes from your heart. I put myself in the residents' shoes, see what they see, and do what they enjoy. Today, I feel like I'm part of their family."
-Afua
Afua's StoryUpcoming Dates
Reminder!
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Let staff know at least 24 hours in advance if you make plans with your family member. Giving Gabriel Homes notice assures us that every resident is taken care of if they're not home. Use the on-call phone number or email staff to notify us. |
Remember to email us your feedback if you have any questions, suggestions, or ideas for future editions of The Treehouse.
Feel free to send our newsletter to any friends or family who don't receive it. Share our newsletter sign-up link so they can join today.
Follow Gabriel Homes on all your favorite social media platforms: Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Threads.
We appreciate donations of any amounts
Consider making a donation to Gabriel Homes today.
Donate dddcdIt turns out a sunny attitude isn’t just good for your mood. A study from Stanford University finds a positive outlook can improve your memory and make you a more strategic problem solver.
At Gabriel Homes...
...we provide top-notch services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Our staff helps residents reach their dreams by working with them to achieve their goals and being positive beacons of support.
One residential counselor, Afua, has worked at Gabriel Homes since 2014. By empowering the residents and celebrating their successes, she recently won the DSPY Positivity Award at a ceremony hosted by the Northern Virginia Coalition of Providers.
Afua is a light and calming presence to our residents and fellow DSPs. Through floods, renovations, and other changes, she supports the residents through thick and thin with a smile.
Lynn Davis
Executive Director, Gabriel Homes
Joy Across Gabriel Homes
The residents and Afua have house meetings every Monday evening to celebrate their victories. In one meeting, the gentlemen in the house showed up wearing their medals after placing high at a local Special Olympics powerlifting tournament.
“We cheered for all the guys,” Afua said. “When everybody’s clapping for them, the men get energized and feel proud of themselves.”
Afua also guides residents when they're doing chores. She encourages residents when they cook and steps in if they need extra help. Her goal in working with residents is to give back and support adults with IDD in living independent lives.
“Everything comes from your heart. I put myself in the residents’ shoes, see what they see, and do what they enjoy. Today, I feel like I'm part of their family.
Afua Yankobah
Residential Counselor, Gabriel Homes
Get Involved Today!
If you want to give back and be a part of a community, learn more about getting involved with Gabriel Homes.
Learn MoreMore Stories From Gabriel Homes:
Dinosaurs, ABBA, and Snickers Cheesecake June 13, 2024 Read More The Treehouse: June 2024 June 10, 2024 Read More Community Corner: You’ve Got a Friend in Me June 9, 2024 Read More dddcd
When you have strong female friends, you can feel more empowered. Every Wednesday after work, the women at Gabriel Homes gather for ladies’ night.
Every Wednesday Night
The group sits together and gets to catching up right away. They often talk about how their weeks have been and what their weekend plans are. Everyone then gets ready for dinner, where they treat themselves to favorite meals like macaroni and cheese or breakfast-for-dinner.
Ladies’ night is the heart of our week, and the food is the most exciting part. The Wednesday nights are our time to relax and enjoy being together. They're the best way to break up the week.
Angie, Gabriel Homes Resident
Working Together Toward Goals
Another resident, January, likes playing games most on ladies’ nights.
“Games are fun because they keep you working toward a goal,” said January. “I play a memory game using a deck of cards a lot. The games become exciting when the players can't find the winning pair of cards.”
Strong Role Models Change Lives
Marlene Stevens, a residential counselor at Gabriel Homes, believes women best empower each other when they have role models. She likes working ladies' nights because she aims to build positive women-led communities.
“Everyone needs positive female role models,” said Stevens. “I love working with the ladies here because I’m proud to show them how to be independent. But you need spaces for strong women, so I’m glad Gabriel Homes provides that for them.”
Looking to share your favorite skills with residents?
You can get involved today by teaching skills like cooking and gardening to our residents. Get a head-start at gabrielhomes.org.
Get InvolvedMore stories about our residents
Dinosaurs, ABBA, and Snickers Cheesecake June 13, 2024 Read More Community Corner: You’ve Got a Friend in Me June 9, 2024 Read More The Treehouse: June 2024 June 5, 2024 Read More dddcd
If you missed the news on April 8, Gabriel Homes launched its new logo and website.
A New Look
The logo, which features a home sheltering a tree, represents how the organization and residents have grown over 40 years. When you visit the new gabrielhomes.org, you can access more content than ever by using the site’s sleek new design.
Content on the website now includes Gabriel Homes’ history and residents’ stories. With so much information on each page, the community has been buzzing about the changes.
We reached out to the community to get their thoughts since the site launched. Here’s what they had to say:
As a parent of an adult with intellectual and developmental disabilities, I believe the new gabrielhomes.org shows that people with IDD can lead full, semi-independent lives. Gabriel Homes proves that the residents are part of the community.
Linda, parent of a resident
I now have a much more complete view of Gabriel Homes and the residents. The new website reveals more than I ever knew!
-George Dellagiarino, friend of Gabriel Homes and member of Saint John Neumann Catholic Church
The work of the community makes you feel like you’re making new friends at Gabriel Homes. Discovering the unique talents and sharing them are big parts of what makes life so beautiful.
Chris Brasco, friend of Gabriel Homes and member of Saint John Neumann Catholic Church
"I sent the website out to the Knights of Columbus as soon as I saw it. The new pages are laid out well and are easy to navigate. There’s a wealth of information on the website, and it shows the residents are really remarkable people.”
-Bill Bob, member of the Knights of Columbus Arlington Chapter