Research shows that students can better succeed as adults if they learn how to make independent choices early on.
Students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who learn to advocate for themselves in K-12 education are more likely to hold a job, live independently, and be involved in their communities.
A leading Special Education Advocate in Virginia
Kendall Heren, a member of the Gabriel Homes board of directors, has worked in special education for nearly 15 years. After working as a Fairfax County teacher and eventually chairing the special education department, Kendall founded KNH Advocacy and began her work as an advocate in Virginia. Her business helps tailor individualized education plans (IEPs) for families of students enrolled in special education. With her background working with IEPs from the educator side, Kendall mediates between parents and schools to find the best learning path for students with IDD.
Following some of her former students’ graduations this spring, Kendall spoke about their milestones, her advocacy for independence in IEPs she helps produce, and ways the community can support people with IDD. Learn more about advocating for independence inside and outside of the classroom:
Gabriel Homes’ Q&A With Kendall Heren:
As an educator, what independent skills did you teach your students?
“Teaching social skills could be as simple as playing board games. Taking turns in games is a huge social skill because we do the same thing in conversation. We ask questions and listen when the other person responds. For young students, I made menus of questions they could ask someone sitting across from them. Scripted conversations helped students with listening to others’ answers and making eye contact with them.”
How are you empowering students now at KNH Advocacy?
“As a Special Education advocate in Virginia, I view the students I work with as future adults. When I develop IEPs, I review their records and testing to ensure everything is educationally appropriate. I identify goals, accommodations, and service needs based on the documentation, and then I compare them to current IEPs. If anything is missing or unclear, I bring notes to team meetings.
“Our meetings can be emotionally draining for parents and go on for hours. I try to support everyone in coming to a consensus with the IEP. Ultimately, I remind everyone that we’re here for the students so they have the best plan to become independent adults.”
How can parents help with their kids’ independence before sending them to school?
“Preparing for school can be children’s first predictable routine. Show them how to make their lunches, pick daily outfits, and pack their backpacks. If you show children where everything is, they can try to do those tasks themselves. Letting children do their morning routine without your help can promote a lot of confidence in their skills. Self-assurance is a big deal at an early age!”
Follow-up: What about when they return from school?
“The first ten minutes that kids are home with their parents is critical for childhood development. I always encourage parents to ask their kids open-ended questions like ‘Who did you sit with at lunch?’ or ‘What was the highlight of your day?’ Yes-or-no questions let kids take the easy way out of conversations. Letting them expand on their answers might introduce new conversations that, again, can build their confidence.”
What were your favorite moments seeing your students grow?
“I love seeing students have newfound confidence. There were students who sat under their desks and tore their worksheets. When they sat calmly and finished their projects, they were proud of themselves.
“Things that may seem small on the outside are everything to some students. In a general classroom, one of my students raised their hand for the first time in their academic career. Raising their hand showed they were worth being here, had a valid question or comment, and believed in themselves to share it. Self-pride is more important than any test score.”
What have students taught you about independence?
“I saw my first group of students graduate from high school. They came back to their schools in caps and gowns. Middle and high schoolers learned about the graduates’ experiences, and the alumni took photos with their former teachers.
“My former students’ graduation felt like a full-circle moment because they were taller than me and became full-fledged adults! The boy who couldn’t focus became the man advising younger students on how to pay attention in class. I couldn’t describe how I felt hearing him say that guidance with conviction.”
How can our community better advocate for adults with IDD?
“See people with disabilities as no different from any of us. They desire connections and believe in themselves and their abilities. As a community, we should empower them to enjoy independence like we do.”
“My sorority volunteered for Special Olympics bowling every Thursday. I went with a group of sisters for the first time as a try-it-and-see. Halfway through the evening, I looked down the alley of volunteers and athletes. I said to myself, ‘I am going to spend my entire life making these people’s lives better.’ I was taken aback by the kindness and acceptance of people I never met. Everyone was so welcoming and down-to-earth.
“The next morning, I changed from a business major to human development and later added psychology. I pursued internships in Special Education, worked at a nearby elementary school, and worked with Virginia Tech’s on-campus transition program. I never knew what my career path would be like, but I knew I wanted to be in this field. Looking back, my career has been the most fulfilling, life-changing experience I could have ever asked for.”
At Gabriel Homes, we envision an inclusive community where adults with IDD can live to their full potential.
See how our services help residents live fulfilling, independent lives at gabrielhomes.org. Learn More
More board spotlights at Gabriel Homes:
Special Education Advocate in Virginia Emphasizes Independence June 17, 2025 Read More
Faith Leader in Virginia Is a Father Figure to Many May 28, 2025 Read More
College and Independent Living Share Common Ground May 1, 2025 Read More
IDD Professional in Virginia Champions Growth for Gabriel Homes March 26, 2025 Read More
Ensuring Quality Housing for Adults With IDD at Gabriel Homes February 24, 2025 Read More
Racecar Driving in West Virginia: Cheryl Richardson Preaches Safety January 27, 2025 Read More
New Could Be You! Why You Should Join Our Board of Directors December 18, 2024 Read More
Gabriel Homes Announces Hall of Fame Class of 2024 December 6, 2024 Read More
Young Professionals Revitalize Nonprofit Boards November 25, 2024 Read More
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Good intentions when guiding your children can sometimes come at the cost of growth.
A Stanford study shows that children who have space to lead can better manage feelings, stay focused, and make smarter decisions on their own.
Independence has many success stories!
In our Mother’s and Father’s Day editions of our monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, we featured some of our residents’ parents in various stories. Since their children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) became adults and moved to Gabriel Homes, many parents shared how proud they were of their children’s journeys toward independence.
Independence came up in conversations about family vacations, activities, and memories. See from our residents’ parents how independence has many shapes and sizes for adults with IDD:
Mark (right):
“John (left) loves his library membership and is on patrol when he’s there. He knows what he wants and checks out on his own. John plays Christmas music every day, so he gets holiday CDs for his music player. He and his housemates also love Disney movies, so he leaves with many DVDs. John’s favorite movies right now are ‘The Little Mermaid’ and ‘The Lion King.’”
Rick (left):
“Flying feels like a big accomplishment for Chris (right) when he sees me in Memphis. When he gets off the plane, I see his face shining and smiling like crazy! Chris loves the fact that he’s independent at the airport. He checks in, goes through security, gets to his gate, flies, and leaves without breaking a sweat.”
Lee:
“Sara (front) is an academic who loves writing and reading. She’s great at making meaning out of books and having unique interpretations of them. Her reading skills help with other independent tasks like traveling. Sara is flying to Florida through two major airports soon. I’m confident knowing she can read the directions and, if she needs it, ask for help.”
Linda:
“Kari (right) is excited about going out with people her age who have similar interests. On evenings and weekends, she goes out to concerts in Reston, sees friends at adult social club, and visits nearby museums. Many adults get bored tagging along with their parents’ friends, so Kari does everything with her friends like her brother does with his.”
Bob (right) and Joan (second to right):
“Gabe (left) being away from home has been a growing and learning experience for all of us, but the result has been phenomenal. His communication skills have been much clearer since moving to Gabriel Homes. At family reunions, Gabe is more outgoing and likes saying hi to everyone. In large crowds, he’s better at showing us what he needs when he’s overwhelmed, and we’re better at knowing how we can support him.”
Every month of The Treehouse has a new theme, so don’t miss out on future editions!
Join our community by signing up for next month’s newsletter at gabrielhomes.org. Sign Up Today
A Day in the Life at Gabriel Homes:
Community Corner: Adults With IDD Go the Extra Mile in Independence June 12, 2025 Read More
Four Facts About Reuben Sidifall May 30, 2025 Read More
Sunday Routines in NOVA Bring John and His Family Joy May 22, 2025 Read More
Community Corner: Extended Families Improve Communities May 16, 2025 Read More
Preparing Your Child With IDD (and Yourself) for Independence May 2, 2025 Read More
Sundays in Reston With Chris April 24, 2025 Read More
Gabriel Homes Residents Welcome Spring with Fresh Styles March 20, 2025 Read More
Rosa Leads Spring Cleanings in Reston March 18, 2025 Read More
Social Workers Spotlight Mental Health for Adults With IDD February 26, 2025 Read More
Exercise Builds Independence for Adults With IDD February 20, 2025 Read More
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The June 2025 edition of our newsletter, The Treehouse, shouts out many of the amazing fathers of Gabriel Homes.
Dads can play vital roles in empowering our residents to live and succeed independently. Join us in celebrating them in the Father’s Day edition in our June 2025 newsletter!
The Latest:
Residents Share Their Favorite Memories With Their Dads
In the May edition of our newsletter, we spoke with some of our residents’ moms about family traditions. But not all residents’ parents are with us today. This Father’s Day, residents shared their favorite memories with their dads so family legacies could live on.
Read memories from our residents at gabrielhomes.org.
Learn More
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Sara's Adventures With Her Father
Sara chases thrills when the family travels. At Universal Studios in Orlando, she spent endless hours in Harry Potter World, her favorite book and movies series.
Learn more Sara's journeys at gabrielhomes.org.
Learn More
Sunday Routines Bring John and His Family Joy
On most Sundays from September to March, John (left) and his parents (dad pictured right) have jam-packed days. From the library to bowling to dinner, there's endless fun and little downtime.
Read about John’s Family Outings
Don’t let your friends & family miss out on The Treehouse!
Share our newsletter with five people you know! Send them to gabrielhomes.org and have them sign up at the bottom of the home page.
Things to Do in Memphis: Gabriel Homes Edition
Chris (first photo, center) looks forward to every trip to every trip down south, where he sees his dad, Rick (first photo, left), and stepmom, Mandy (first photo, right).
“Chris was looking out at the city one day, and he said to me, ‘Memphis is my kind of city.’”
Rick
Learn about Chris’ trips to Memphis
Community Corner:
Knights of Columbus and Extended Family
The Family of Man Council in Reston reflects brothers’ commitment to their families. Some brothers who are fathers see the Knights as extended family.
“Brothers do good for their families when they form support groups, open up to each other, and pray for others.”
-Bob Balog, brother of the Knights of Columbus
Learn about the Knights' impact on 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.
Board Spotlight
Faith Leader Is a Father Figure to Many
Many of you know him as Father Bob. Reverend Monsignor Bob Cilinski joined the Gabriel Homes board of directors in 1990 and helped usher us into strength and stability in his 33 years of service. Seeing the residents live their dreams was Fr. Bob's favorite achievement on the board.
“We wanted to do everything we could to provide independence to more families.”
Fr. Bob
Read Fr. Bob’s Full Story
Staff Spotlight:
Get to Know Reuben This Father’s Day
Our senior residential counselor, Reuben (right), also is celebrating Father's Day. His daughter, Pierrein (left), joined Gabriel Homes as a residential counselor in 2020.
This June spotlight delves into some insight into Reuben, his family, and his dynamic with the residents.
Learn more about Gabriel Homes’ North Star
Upcoming Dates:
Reminder!
Let staff know at least 24 hours in advance if you make plans with your family member. Giving Gabriel Homes notice assures us that every resident is taken care of if they’re not home.
Use the on-call phone number or email staff to notify us.
Remember to email us your feedback if you have any questions, suggestions, or ideas for future editions of The Treehouse.
Feel free to send our newsletter to any friends or family who don’t receive it. Share our newsletter sign-up link so they can join today.
Follow Gabriel Homes on all your favorite social media platforms: Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Threads.
We appreciate donations of any amounts.
Consider making a donation to Gabriel Homes today.
More stories you may have missed:
Residents Share Favorite Memories with Their Dads June 1, 2025 Read More
The Treehouse: June 2025 Newsletter May 30, 2025 Read More
Four Facts About Reuben Sidifall May 30, 2025 Read More
Family Adventures With Sara, Old and New May 29, 2025 Read More
Faith Leader in Virginia Is a Father Figure to Many May 28, 2025 Read More
Things to Do in Memphis: Gabriel Homes Edition May 27, 2025 Read More
Sunday Routines in NOVA Bring John and His Family Joy May 22, 2025 Read More
Community Corner: Extended Families Improve Communities May 16, 2025 Read More
The Treehouse: May 2025 Newsletter May 5, 2025 Read More
Preparing Your Child With IDD (and Yourself) for Independence May 2, 2025 Read More
College and Independent Living Share Common Ground May 1, 2025 Read More
Sundays in Reston With Chris April 24, 2025 Read More
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Residents’ Favorite Memories With Their Dads
Consumer spending may total over $22 billion on this year’s Father’s Day. The National Retail Federation says 75% of Americans plan to celebrate the June holiday, and the most common dad gifts are cards, clothing, and special outings.
Father’s Day is coming quickly...
... and residents at Gabriel Homes have plans for family visits and brunches. In the May edition of our newsletter, we spoke with some of our residents’ moms about family traditions. But not all residents’ parents are with us today. This Father’s Day, residents shared their favorite memories with their dads so family legacies could live on.
Chris:
“I come from an army dad who served for eight years. He was active during World War II and the Korean War. When I was little, Dad showed us our grandparents’ home in Pennsylvania. We walked his path to school, and he showed me where he graduated. I met some of his childhood neighbors. His friends said he was funny back then like he was with me. Dad’s sense of humor was teasing, but I messed with him, too. We had fun being silly together.”
Darcy:
“Dad worked with satellites and planes, and he knew lots about stars and constellations. He also got me into history. We would go on the computer, and he would read me the history of world events. African history was the most interesting to me since everyone has ancestry from there. When he wasn’t working, he volunteered at Wolf Trap. I always loved the free tickets his shows got us.”
Rich D.:
“When I lived in New York, Dad and I did the same trip to work together. We carpooled with his buddies, got doughnuts at the deli, and went to work on the same route. On family trips, we drove from New York to Atlanta to pick up my uncle, and we headed down to Florida. We either stayed at Sarasota’s beaches or Disney World in Orlando.
“On the anniversary of my dad’s death, I go to church and light a candle for him. He’s not here anymore, but he knows I love him.”
Angie:
“Dad and I played lots of games. He taught me how to use my forehand and backhand in tennis and signed me up for tennis camp. Football was on every Sunday in the fall when we were home, and I liked watching the games with him. Trips with Dad to Rehoboth Beach were the best, though. We walked through Funland on the boardwalk, where we played our favorite game, Skee-ball.”
January:
“I was in the backyard all the time when I was little because the swing set was so much fun. Dad was a strong pusher when I was on it. When it was hot outside, Dad was our grill-master. He knew how to grill steaks, and I liked mine well done. The Nationals were always playing in the spring and summer on our TV, so he got me into baseball. If the Nats weren’t playing, we were throwing the baseball in the backyard.”
Rich R.:
“My dad was such a great man. We played lots of football, but we were bad! Neither of us could catch or throw the ball, but at least we could hang onto it. Dad was great on the grill, though. Whenever he dropped the meat, he yelled, ‘God dang it!’ in a funny voice. I always laughed because he looked silly when he yelled. We joked about his meat drops every cookout.”
Did you know?
Board member Leslie Kane’s father, Pat, is one of Gabriel Homes’ founders. Read about the Kane family at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Learn More dddcd
The median employee tenure for men is 4.2 years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
At Gabriel Homes, senior residential counselor Reuben Sidifall bucks the trend of brief tenures.
Moving to Reston from Liberia, Reuben found a gathering with other immigrants from his home country.
A home supervisor from Liberia introduced Reuben to Gabriel Homes. Because of his background in human services, Reuben was hired by the supervisor as a direct support professional.
Twenty-eight years later, Reuben has carried out Gabriel Homes’ mission by empowering our residents to reach their full potential. Staff call him the North Star of Gabriel Homes. The residents have grown to trust Reuben, and Reuben says they are his second family.
Reuben’s story is full of heart, dedication, and a few surprises! Here are four things about Reuben that you may not know:
1. Reuben takes pride in his home country when the world has its eyes on it.
The Olympics and World Cup, for example, expose hundreds of millions of viewers to countries’ cultures and traditions. Reuben looks back fondly on when Liberia was the center of attention. In 1995, the country’s soccer sensation, George Weah, won the prestigious Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year awards. Weah’s star status in the sports world earned him the nickname “King George.” In part thanks to Weah’s goal-scoring success, soccer is the most popular sport in Liberia.
“Sometimes I watch soccer with the residents if there’s a good game on. One of our former residents was a big Liverpool fan. I was happy seeing him smile when they scored.”
Reuben Sidifall
2. Reuben overcame his own fears for the residents when he took them on vacations.
He and the residents often drove out of state for past trips to Florida and Wisconsin. On one summer trip, Reuben faced his fear of heights when he flew out of state with the residents.
“He may not like flying, but he cares about the residents’ best interests,” says Pierrein Kardamie, a residential counselor and Reuben’s daughter. “It means a lot to them and me that he’s willing to sacrifice his interests for us.”
3. Like Father, Like Daughter:
Reuben’s wife and Pierrein’s sister worked together at a different organization. At home, dinner conversations often left Reuben and Pierrein feeling left out. They couldn’t connect with the rest of the family over their workdays. When Pierrein joined Gabriel Homes in 2020, she and her father started sharing more about their workdays at family gatherings.
“My dad and I have gotten closer over the years because of Gabriel Homes,” says Pierrein. “We bond over what’s going on at our shifts and activities we’re planning with the residents.”
Pierrein Kardamie
Residential Counselor, Gabriel Homes
4. Reuben sometimes helps his family prepare dinners.
Bitter leaf soup, a popular Liberian dish, is one of Reuben’s favorite meals. Reuben swears by pairing the soup with fufu, a mashed potato-like starch.
At Gabriel Homes, residents rotate cooking and serving dinner to their housemates each day. Many residents serve delicious meals thanks to Reuben teaching them proper kitchen skills, like using the stove and utensils. One resident, Sean, serves his housemates and powerlifting friends sandwiches and tomato soup for Men’s Night. Reuben lends an extra hand only when Sean asks for help.
Sean
Gabriel Homes Resident
For his decades of service and compassion for our residents...
... Reuben Sidifall was inducted into the Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame in 2024. Read about every inductee at gabrielhomes.org. Meet Our Hall of Fame Inductees dddcdHaving lots of hobbies can teach you a lot about yourself.
Studies show that doing a variety of activities can be good for your mental health and expand your social network. Supporting children to try different passions, like ones found in family adventures, can help them learn life skills like making friends and being active.
Check out Sara’s family adventures:
Sara, a resident at Gabriel Homes, often sees her parents on weekends when she’s not busy with adult social club or her parish, Saint John Neumann. Visits are usually easygoing since the group often prefers watching shows or movies. Sara’s an avid fan of the Harry Potter franchise, so she likes playing one of the many films for everyone.
“The world of Harry Potter is comforting. The books aren’t like anything else. Hermione is my favorite character because she’s a good friend to Harry, and she reads lots of books like me.”
Sara
Gabriel Homes Resident
The Harry Potter series follows Sara’s family on vacations.
When traveling, Sara also loves riding rollercoasters. Her favorite rides are at Harry Potter World at Universal Studios. One intense ride has upside-down sections and loops.
On one past trip, Sara wanted to ride the vigorous rollercoaster but had little fanfare from the family. Lee stepped up and volunteered to ride with her. Getting off the rollercoaster with Sara, Lee didn’t have a chance to recollect himself because she insisted they ride it again.
“We had a guest pass where we could jump the rollercoaster wait lines. Sara’s uncle was out of it for the day after one of the rides because we were doing them quickly.”
Lee
Lee and Mary, Sara’s mom, raised their children in Richmond.
Virginia’s capital held an annual Tour de Midnight bike ride competition, and Lee and Sara would bike through the city and several parks. In one tournament, Lee and Sara strung their tandem bike with Christmas lights. The father-daughter duo went on to win the best tandem bike award for their decorating.
“Sara was excited when I asked her to do the tour with me that year. It was hard work putting the bike together and pedaling through the city, but we made it to the end in one piece!”
Lee
Sara is an avid reader and learner.
Away from her family adventures and at the College of Adaptive Arts, Sara is learning more about her love of acting in a film studies class. See how education is one of her passions at gabrielhomes.org/stories. More on Sara’s education journeyThe latest stories from Gabriel Homes:
The Treehouse: June 2025 Newsletter June 2, 2025 Read More Residents Share Favorite Memories with Their Dads June 1, 2025 Read More Four Facts About Reuben Sidifall May 30, 2025 Read More Family Adventures With Sara, Old and New May 29, 2025 Read More Faith Leader in Virginia Is a Father Figure to Many May 28, 2025 Read More Things to Do in Memphis: Gabriel Homes Edition May 27, 2025 Read More Sunday Routines in NOVA Bring John and His Family Joy May 22, 2025 Read More Community Corner: Extended Families Improve Communities May 16, 2025 Read More The Treehouse: May 2025 Newsletter May 5, 2025 Read More Preparing Your Child With IDD (and Yourself) for Independence May 2, 2025 Read More dddcd
Nonprofits rarely, if ever, turn into overnight success stories.
Stability can take years as nonprofits work to earn trust with communities and steadily raise funds.
A Faith Leader in Northern Virginia
Reverend Monsignor Bob Cilinski, known by many as Father Bob, joined the Gabriel Homes board of directors in 1990. Many adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) faced, and continue to face, long waitlists for independent homes. Fr. Bob educated himself on systemic barriers for adults with IDD and raised awareness of them in Reston. His greatest challenge on the board was expanding Gabriel Homes’ services so more adults with IDD could enjoy independent lives.
“We had two homes when I joined the board, and we wanted to do everything we could to provide independence to more families. Our goals were to purchase more homes, develop our programs and staff, and find ways residents could be more involved in the community.”
Father Bob Cilinski
The board, which included the faith leader in Virginia, agreed that sharing Gabriel Homes’ story with the community was the best way to fundraise and expand. The Gabriel Homes golf tournament spread the word about the organization and joined the community for a common cause. Golfers saw the impact of their donations when they met the residents on the course. The golf committee, which included Fr. Bob, helped grow the fundraiser into a flagship event by adding more sponsors, volunteers, and golfers over time.
“Fr. Bob was my college chaplain at George Mason University, and he introduced me to Gabriel Homes and the residents. 30 years later, he’s the reason my friends from high school and I come back and golf for Gabriel Homes.” 
Dave Shacochis (second from right) Annual Golfer at the Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament
Fr. Bob stepped down from the board after 33 years. The faith leader continues his work as a pastor at Nativity Catholic Church in Burke, Virginia.
During Fr. Bob’s tenure, Gabriel Homes grew from two homes to six and from five residents to 25. The board added diverse leaders like direct support professionals, accountants, and tradespeople. In recognition of his commitment to our residents, Gabriel Homes inducted the Virginia faith leader into the Hall of Fame in 2023.
“Fr. Bob proves that when you lead with compassion and purpose, the community follows. His legacy to Gabriel Homes isn’t measured in numbers – it’s shown in the lives he transforms.” 
Michele Bolos Chair, Gabriel Homes Board of Directors
Seeing the residents live their dreams was Fr. Bob’s favorite achievement on the board.
Fr. Bob saw the residents lead faith groups and make lifelong friends. Residents became more confident and self-assured by becoming team leaders at their jobs and Special Olympics champions on the field.
“I wear the title Father proudly above all the other titles I have been given,” Father Bob said. “Our residents have earthly fathers, and Catholic residents have priests. No matter their faith or parish, residents know they have a spiritual father with me.”
If Fr. Bob’s story inspires you and you’re interested in serving a nonprofit, our board of directors may be your perfect fit.
The board has four committees: executive, health and welfare, development, and infrastructure. See which committee best suits your skills at gabrielhomes.org. Learn More
More board spotlights:
Faith Leader in Virginia Is a Father Figure to Many May 27, 2025 Read More
College and Independent Living Share Common Ground May 1, 2025 Read More
IDD Professional in Virginia Champions Growth for Gabriel Homes March 26, 2025 Read More
Ensuring Quality Housing for Adults With IDD at Gabriel Homes February 24, 2025 Read More
Racecar Driving in West Virginia: Cheryl Richardson Preaches Safety January 27, 2025 Read More
New Could Be You! Why You Should Join Our Board of Directors December 18, 2024 Read More
Gabriel Homes Announces Hall of Fame Class of 2024 December 6, 2024 Read More
Young Professionals Revitalize Nonprofit Boards November 25, 2024 Read More
Karen Brings Personal Perspective to Gabriel Homes Board of Directors October 24, 2024 Read More
dddcdFast facts about Memphis:
- Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis launched their careers in Memphis. Elvis first recorded his music in Sun Studio. If you are looking for things to do in Memphis, the studio offers daytime tours.
- The Memphis Pyramid houses the world’s largest Bass Pro Shop. The megastore features an indoor swamp and bowling alley.
- Since the 1930s, ducks march daily through the Peabody Hotel toward its fountain.
One resident’s parents proudly call Memphis home.
Chris (center) is excited for every trip he takes down south, where he sees his dad, Rick (left), and stepmom, Mandy (right). Rick says Memphis has a “small town feeling in a large city” because the people are friendly and relaxed.
“Chris and I were driving around Memphis one day, and he was looking at the city from the window,” Rick says, laughing. “He looked at me and said, ‘Memphis is my kind of city.’ He made me feel happy about where I chose to live.”
So, what’s the family up to when Chris is in town?
Chris’ five favorite things to do in Memphis (in no particular order):
1. Memphis Barbecue:
Memphis’ famous smoky barbecue consists of pork ribs or shoulders. As a neat eater, Chris keeps his mouth clean and plate orderly. But trips with Rick to Central Barbecue leave Chris’ face covered with barbecue sauce. Since having his first meal there, Chris always asks to make time for lunch at Central.
“Central Barbecue may be messy, but it’s the best barbecue in the world. I get the chicken wings because they’re easier to eat than pork.”
Chris
2. Church Community:
Chris has several friends in Memphis through Rick’s parish, the Church of the Holy Communion. Adults with disabilities regularly meet through the Episcopal Diocese of West Tennessee’s Special Friends Fellowship Club. Chris’ favorite events through the club are holiday parties and disco nights.
“When we’re at services, I like the part where they say, ‘Peace be with you.’ The guests shake hands with each other, and I say hi to everyone around me!”
Chris
3. Chef’s Challenge:
Rick, Mandy, and Chris like trying new challenges at home. During one visit, Chris and his dad threw on aprons and chef’s caps and made spaghetti from scratch. Rick and Mandy returned from vacationing in Italy and learned how to make pasta in Florence. The group agreed that making pasta at home would be a fun way to relive memories in Italy and make new ones with family. Chris took cooking classes and did similar food work at his job, so everyone came equipped with some kitchen experience.
“Chris knew exactly what he was doing. Rolling pasta dough was natural for him since he worked with cookie dough at a bakery. The pasta was delicious in the end!”
Mandy
4. Baseball With the Memphis Redbirds:
Enjoying the American Pastime, Rick takes Chris to baseball games when the Memphis Redbirds are in town. Chris has a couple of baseballs signed by Redbirds players. Some of the players who signed his baseballs have become stars for their parent club, the St. Louis Cardinals.
5. Dancing to the Music:
Memphis is famous for blues, soul, and rock and roll, and it’s home to endless live music. Dozens of artists play daily on Beale Street, but Rick and Chris prefer the hole-in-the-wall clubs over the tourist attractions. Listening to the same music but going to smaller crowds, Chris can dance more comfortably to the artists’ rhythms.
“Chris and I are watching the musicians from the bar at one concert,” Rick laughs. “Suddenly, some ladies pull Chris onto the floor, and everyone’s dancing!”
Our residents travel across the country – sometimes the world – on their vacations!
Catch up on our residents’ adventures at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Read More StoriesMore resident spotlights:
Residents Share Favorite Memories with Their Dads June 1, 2025 Read More Family Adventures With Sara, Old and New May 29, 2025 Read More Things to Do in Memphis: Gabriel Homes Edition May 27, 2025 Read More Sunday Routines in NOVA Bring John and His Family Joy May 22, 2025 Read More Community Corner: Extended Families Improve Communities May 16, 2025 Read More Preparing Your Child With IDD (and Yourself) for Independence May 2, 2025 Read More Sundays in Reston With Chris April 24, 2025 Read More Community Corner: Special Olympics Bowling Brings Family & Friends Together April 17, 2025 Read More Second Annual Spring Fling Raises the Roof April 15, 2025 Read More dddcdFamily routines help everyone feel closer, healthier, and more supported.
A 50-year study from the American Psychological Association finds that family rituals can build bonds during life’s lows and highs.
Sunday Routines in NOVA: Gabriel Homes Edition
John, a resident at Gabriel Homes, sees his dad Mark and mom Ellen for their Sunday routines in NOVA from September to March. Their timeline is unchanged, having spent a lifetime of Sundays together, usually dining and bowling. John competed in Special Olympics bowling over 20 years ago, but the league he was in disbanded.
“All of the athletes and parents wanted to keep bowling, so we formed our own league,” Mark said. “Years later, roughly 30 families come to the same alley and play in family bowling every week.”
Before making their way to the lanes, John and Mark stop at the public library. John takes advantage of his membership by checking out DVDs he wants to watch. Shows like “Arthur” and Disney movies regularly play on TV.
“My favorite movie right now is ‘The Lion King. Timon and Pumbaa are funny characters, and the songs and music are amazing.”
John
John (center) had a safari theme for his birthday in January. Residents wore animal masks similar to many of the characters seen in “The Lion King.”
After going to the library, the family eats quick lunches at McDonald’s. John prefers the Big Mac, fries, and soda, but he also enjoys other sandwiches like the Filet-O-Fish. Lunches give the family the energy they need before they bowl.
Everyone in the family bowling league has a connection to the intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) community. The parents and bowlers have been friends for decades by playing together. John shares his lane with the same group of athletes.
“Friends like Alex are nice, and I care about them. When I don’t see them at the alley, I ask the families near me if the guys are all right.” 
John
John bowls underhanded using both hands. Lined at the center of the lane, John rolls the ball between his legs. Mark says John’s average is up 20 points from when he first bowled in the Special Olympics.
“Ellen and I made John a custom ball. The ball doesn’t have holes so John can roll it easily. He walks back smiling when he gets strikes and spares.”
Mark
After bowling, the family finishes their visits at one of their favorite restaurants in Falls Church, Ireland’s Four Provinces. The family has gone to the restaurant for decades since it’s close to Mark’s home. John is familiar and comfortable with the staff. The head bartender knows John well enough to serve him orange sodas at the bar. The restaurant and bar food’s simple pleasures help make their Sundays complete.
“Mark and Ellen are strong advocates for their son. They connect well with John, and their Sundays bring them closer as a family.” 
Kassi Fretty Program Coordinator, Gabriel Homes
During the week, John trains with several residents at IMP Fitness for powerlifting competitions.
Learn more about training sessions with his coaches at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Learn More
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How Faith Groups Improve Communities and Others’ Lives
People who serve in volunteer leadership roles tend to live happier lives, according to a 2024 study. Many volunteers feel more fulfilled when they feel they can improve their communities.
Leadership at Gabriel Homes
Some Gabriel Homes residents are in leadership roles through the Knights of Columbus: Family of Man Council in Reston. The Knights are active in the Saint John Neumann Catholic Church (SJN) community. Some brothers may help direct parking on holidays, and others, like Rich, are altar servers or ushers during services. Once a month, the Knights hold pancake breakfasts to raise money for charity.
“Everyone embraces the brotherhood of the Knights. When you need help, more brothers show up than needed.”
David Donnelly
Turnout is especially high when brothers hold monthly evening socials.
The Knights say socials keep the brotherhood intact. Guests catch up on each other’s lives and see if they can help someone facing hard times.
“I give Dave and Rich rides to socials since they live nearby,” Jim says. “On one ride, Dave told me he wanted to golf more. He was a yearly golfer at the Gabriel Homes annual golf tournament, and I golfed with a crew from SJN. Because I got to know Dave, I started taking him to Special Olympics golf trainings.”
Residents help serve the brotherhood as elected officers.
As warden, Dave protects the council’s property and supervises the guards. Rich is an inside guard who lets guests into meetings by checking membership cards. Chris (second from right) was in leadership and took part in business meetings for years before stepping down.
“The residents enjoy being leaders and responding to challenges. They deserve recognition for the work they put into the Knights.”
Bob Balog
The brotherhood aims to better the world through its core values:
charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. The “Family of Man” logo on the SJN council’s badges reflects members’ commitment to their families. Members who are parents like David, Jim, and Bob see the Knights as part of their extended family.
“Brothers do good for their families when they form support groups, open up to each other, and pray for others in good and bad times,” Bob says. “The brothers at Gabriel Homes make a difference because they’re involved with our community.”
“All are welcome,” according to SJN’s motto.
See how several residents are involved with the parish outside of the Knights at gabrielhomes.org/stories.
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