Family 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.
Learn MoreRecent Community Corner Spotlights:
Community Corner: Extended Families Improve Communities May 16, 2025 Read More Community Corner: Special Olympics Bowling Brings Family & Friends Together April 17, 2025 Read More Community Corner: The Physical and Mental Benefits of Bowling February 28, 2025 Read More Community Corner: Teambuilding at Why Not Today’s Art Event January 31, 2025 Read More dddcd
Thank You for Your Support!
A year ago, we sent our very first edition of The Treehouse. We never expected how much it would grow and resonate with you. Today, as we celebrate our one-year anniversary in our May 2025 newsletter, we want to take a moment to reflect on this journey and express our gratitude.
Over the past 12 months, we've shared stories about our celebrations, highlighted your impact on our residents, and built a community of engaged readers who care about building independence for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Your support, feedback, and enthusiasm have made this possible!
Spread the Word
Stepping into The Treehouse's second year, we're excited to bring you even more valuable content, insightful stories, and fresh perspectives. If you enjoy our newsletter, we'd love for you to share it with your family, friends, colleagues, or anyone who may find our newsletter valuable. Your support is how our community grows!
Share this article or send this link: Subscribe Here.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Here's to another great year!
Sincerely, 
Lynn Davis Executive Director, Gabriel Homes
Tell us: What's your favorite part of our newsletter?
Email us at info@gabrielhomes.org and let us know!
The Latest: May 2025
Every Sunday Is Special With Chris
Every Sunday, Chris (right) meets his mom (left), his brother, and his brother's girlfriend for lunch. Everyone meets for lunch at Uncle Julio's in Reston, and Chris' eyes widen when the servers deliver his chicken fajitas.
Check out Chris' Sunday adventures
Residents Shine at Second Annual Spring Fling
This year's Spring Fling was bigger and better than ever. Karaoke was the highlight of the night, and residents sang along and danced to every song. But this year's party also featured games like bingo, spin the wheel, and freeze dance! Read about the unforgettable night at gabrielhomes.org.
Gabe's Mom Champions Independence
Gabe (left) has made massive leaps in independence since becoming a resident 30 years ago. His mom Joan (second to right) has reflected on Gabe's journey and growth.
"Gabe has come so far and been able to handle much more responsibility."
Joan
Learn more about Gabe's victories
Follow us on social media to see more pictures of our residents:
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Dave Visits Mom at the American Frontier
After seeing the Kansas City Royals play in Spring Training in Arizona with his brother, Dave traveled to Utah and saw his mom, Barb.
"When the weather was nicer, we went to Antelope Island State Park in Great Salt Lake. The park has a big herd of bison."
Barb
See Dave's adventures
Community Corner
Special Olympics Bowling Brings Families Together
Everyone joins the fun at Special Olympics bowling. Athletes like January (left) and Kari improve each season since rolling for over 25 years.
"The athletes are the reason we’re here," says Laura Cameron, league coordinator and mom of a Special Olympics bowler. "When you’re here, you make new friends and have fun."
Learn how bowling brings us together
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
Michele Bolos and Shalini Kapur
Moving your family member to college and moving to independent homes have more in common than you think.
Michele Bolos (first photo, right) and Shalini Kapur (second photo, left), two members of the Gabriel Homes board of directors, and their families reflect on how they raised their oldest daughters to be independent.
Michele's daughter (first photo, left) will attend High Point University, and Shalini's daughter (second photo, second to left) will play softball at Roanoke College.
Read more about the families' next chapters
Staff Spotlight
Naomi McKeone
Owner of The Handy Ma'am, Naomi (left) helps residents make full use of their living spaces. Naomi suggests new, creative ways residents can store their clothes and decorations.
"Sometimes I have little work to do on their rooms because they’re great at following my suggestions." 
Naomi McKeone Owner, The Handy Ma'am
See how Naomi sets residents up for success
Upcoming Dates
Reminder!
Let staff know at least 24 hours in advance if you make plans with your family member. Giving Gabriel Homes notice assures us that every resident is taken care of if they’re not home.
Use the on-call phone number or email staff to notify us.
Remember to email us your feedback if you have any questions, suggestions, or ideas for future editions of The Treehouse.
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Consider making a donation to Gabriel Homes today.
More stories you may have missed:
The Treehouse: May 2025 Newsletter May 2, 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
Professional Organizer Benefits Gabriel Homes April 23, 2025 Read More
Community Corner: Special Olympics Bowling Brings Family & Friends Together April 17, 2025 Read More
College Applications and Independent Living Tours Have Common Ground April 16, 2025 Read More
Second Annual Spring Fling Raises the Roof April 15, 2025 Read More
The Treehouse: April 2025 Newsletter April 7, 2025 Read More
Sites at the American Frontier: Exploring New Mexico and Utah March 31, 2025 Read More
IDD Professional in Virginia Champions Growth for Gabriel Homes March 26, 2025 Read More
Gabriel Homes Celebrates Willie Lemay and His Legacy March 21, 2025 Read More
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Independence for adults with IDD can start from the moment they're born.
Surveys show that 3 in 4 parents encourage their kids aged 5-8 to try independent tasks. According to a 2016 study, parents focus most on independence through teaching social skills if their children have intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD).
Gabriel Homes unlocks the door to independence for adults with IDD in Reston and Herndon.
In January, one resident, Gabe, celebrated 30 years of living at Gabriel Homes. His mom, Joan, reflected on how she prepared her son for independence.
Learn more about our servicesEarly Years
Joan (second from right) and Bob (right), Gabe’s dad, taught Gabe how to care for himself physically. His morning routine was getting up, showering, picking clothes, and dressing himself. As he got older, Gabe added making lunch to the routine.
“We reinforced the same routine with Gabe, and he became comfortable doing it day after day. When Gabe moved to Gabriel Homes, staff understood his routine and let him stick to it.”
Joan
Moving to Gabriel Homes
Gabe started preparing for independence as his parents raised his younger sisters. When home alone, Gabe developed habits like locking the doors or contacting his neighbor for emergencies. Once Gabe became a resident at Gabriel Homes, Joan and Bob understood they wouldn’t be around as much.
Gabe tried other habits little by little while keeping his daily routine intact. Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches were Gabe’s meal of choice, but he added other ingredients to the mix. Since Gabe was active all day, he started snacking during his downtime to reenergize himself.
“Gabe has greatly improved at being independent and managing anxiety. I’ve worked with him on breathing exercises when he’s overwhelmed by large crowds at Reston Town Center. He’s been able to do laundry on his own and can separate light clothes from dark ones. And he can cook a great Hamburger Helper meal!”
Reuben Sidifall
Senior Residential Counselor, Gabriel Homes
Victories Today
Gabe’s favorite time of year is visiting Camp Jaycee, his summer getaway. He goes swimming, rows paddleboats, and plays sports for two weeks of nonstop activity. Gabe says he likes going to Camp Jaycee because he enjoys making new friends outside of Gabriel Homes.
“I come back to Camp Jaycee every year because it’s the best place in the world. The nature walks and dancing are the most fun because I don’t get to do them every day.”
Gabe
Gabriel Homes Resident
Gabe may live away from his parents, but he enjoys quality time with his mom. The two specifically spend time outside or at the movies together. When he sees the whole family, Gabe watches his sisters’ kids, who like running around and playing video games with him.
“Gabe is a grown man,” said Joan. “He has come so far and been able to handle more responsibility. Large crowds can be overwhelming, but he’s much more outgoing with his friends, family, sisters, nephews, and niece than ever.”
Another resident, Caryn (right), also celebrated 30 years as a resident in February!
Read about her favorite memories at Gabriel Homes at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Learn MoreMore resident spotlights:
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 Sites at the American Frontier: Exploring New Mexico and Utah March 31, 2025 Read More Gabriel Homes Residents Welcome Spring with Fresh Styles March 20, 2025 Read More Community Corner: The Physical and Mental Benefits of Bowling February 28, 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 Caryn Marks 30 Years of Residence at Gabriel Homes February 18, 2025 Read More dddcd
College and Independent Living: What They Have in Common
There’s more in common than you think when you send your child off to college or independent homes. Future students and residents have applications, tours, and move-ins before they start living on their own. Families similarly grapple with emotional rollercoasters from a different lens: becoming empty nesters.
Michele Bolos and Shalini Kapur...
... two members of the Gabriel Homes Board of Directors, and their husbands are sending their oldest kids to college for the first time. As their daughters prepare for independence away from home, the parents are reflecting on raising their kids for this moment. Michele and Chris’ daughter is enrolling at High Point University in North Carolina, and Shalini and Charles’ daughter is attending Roanoke College where she will also play softball.
“My girls were independent at early ages because everything was available to them. They could reach for a small milk container in the fridge and pour it with cereal. Their cups, plates, and utensils were low so they could set the table. The girls made their lunches at the counter on footstools!”
Michele Bolos
Chair, Gabriel Homes Board of Directors
Starting Transitions to College and Independent Living:
Michele believes incoming undergrads and residents can be independent when they have safe spaces to learn, fail, and grow. The dignity of risk is a person’s right to make choices and become smarter through their mistakes. A 2011 study finds that looking for personal strengths, weighing the outcomes, and planning for risks lead to more confidence and independence.
“Learning through errors is the best teacher for any person. Failure during sports, like being at the bottom of the lineup, teaches life skills like resilience and hard work.”
Shalini Kapur
Director, Development Committee, Gabriel Homes Board of Directors
Shalini’s daughter learned about independence early on when she started traveling for softball.
Being away from home taught her to advocate for herself and form friendships on her own. She knew she wanted to play softball for undergrad, but Roanoke College stressed that academics came before sports.
“My daughter came this far by going with her gut and making the right decisions. She’ll succeed in college because she’s seen many personalities and has made smart decisions in all stages of her life.”
Shalini Kapur
Michele says independence is ongoing from the time children are born.
From holding bottles to walking to driving, kids learn independence throughout their lives. To Michele, children’s victories build on top of each other to develop into the big day: moving out and starting the next chapter of their lives as adults.
“When my oldest joined Gabriel Homes and when my youngest went to college, I knew they would be all right,” says one parent of a resident. “I couldn’t control their situations any longer, but them being on their own was the best possible result. My kids became successful in their own ways.”
Like yourself, residents at Gabriel Homes have ongoing independent journeys.
Read about breakthroughs large and small every week at gabrielhomes.org/stories.
Catch the Latest & GreatestMore Board spotlights:
College and Independent Living Share Common Ground May 1, 2025 Read More College Applications and Independent Living Tours Have Common Ground April 16, 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 dddcdStudies show people who spend lots of time with family can have higher life expectancies.
Catching up and having strong support systems with family can provide a sense of belonging, which is critical for keeping mental health in shape.
Sundays in Reston
One resident at Gabriel Homes, Chris, is a social butterfly when he’s home with his housemates. There’s plenty of activity during the week since Chris works and powerlifts. But he holds true to his ritual every Sunday afternoon, where he meets with his mom and brother for lunch.
“We do lunch at Uncle Julio’s, and Chris gets chicken fajitas every time. The restaurant is a great hangout place for us, and we love watching the Reston-Herndon area grow over the years.”
Jackie, Chris’ Mom
Family outings are a lifelong tradition for Chris and his brother (right).
The family did Friday outings when the boys were younger. When the brothers moved out, Sundays fit everyone’s schedules best. Chris’ brother’s girlfriend became a regular addition to the group when the pair started dating, and she brought extra fun and conversation to Sunday lunches.
“Sundays with my family are the highlight of mine and my girlfriend’s weeks,” Chris’ brother says. “They’re full of jubilance and laughs, and we love being in each other’s presence before the hard workweeks.”
The group likes talking about music and movies they’ve seen.
Residents make trips to the movies with their housemates at University Mall. When they have their Sundays in Reston lunches, Chris and Jackie play trivia flashcard games on his favorite movies. One card reads, “Who are Harry Potter’s best friends?” and Chris answers, “Ron and Hermione!”
“My favorite movie right now is The Little Mermaid because the songs are great and Ariel is really nice,” Chris says. “I also like the Home Alone movies, Dennis the Menace, and Jurassic Park.”
When everyone’s ready to head their separate ways...
... Chris often asks Jackie to play music in the car. Chris tends to be a man of few words, but he belts every lyric when there’s music.
“There’s lots of freedom and expression in music, and Chris strings so many thoughts together when he sings. We sing Christmas carols during the holidays and campfire songs in the summer. Chris’ childhood favorite songs, like ones from Mary Poppins, play the most in the car.” Jackie
Did you know Chris won the bronze medal in the Special Olympics USA games?
See how Chris trained for the competition and exceeded expectations in a WJLA news spotlight. More on Chris
More sports spotlights at Gabriel Homes:
Community Corner: Special Olympics Bowling Brings Family & Friends Together April 17, 2025 Read More
Community Corner: The Physical and Mental Benefits of Bowling February 28, 2025 Read More
Special Olympics Powerlifting Champions Return to Practice December 19, 2024 Read More
Community Corner: Special Olympics Coaches’ Impact December 1, 2024 Read More
Young Professionals Revitalize Nonprofit Boards November 25, 2024 Read More
Special Olympics Soccer Shines With January November 7, 2024 Read More
Gabriel Homes Powerlifters Pull a Plane at Dulles Airport October 4, 2024 Read More
Gabriel Homes Forecasts the 2024 NFL Season September 12, 2024 Read More
Board Member and Golf Enthusiast September 5, 2024 Read More
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What are the benefits of a professional organizer?
Research shows that people who live in clutter can be more anxious and have lower self-esteem. A professional organizer can benefit people who want to live comfortably and confidently. Stanford University recommends organizing the places where you work and relax first.
Meet The Handy Ma’am:
Naomi McKeone, owner of The Handy Ma’am, helps Gabriel Homes residents maximize their living spaces. Some residents have lived at Gabriel Homes for over 30 years, and clutter can grow over time when personal needs change and storage becomes limited. To help with organizing, Naomi gives unbiased advice and suggests new, creative ways to store older clothes and decorations.
“Residents know where they can put folded clothes away because I label all their drawers,” Naomi says. “Sometimes I have little work to do on their rooms because they’re great at following my suggestions.”
Some residents join Naomi in sorting items to keep, trash, or donate.
One resident, John, is donating over 100 books and magazines after reviewing his collection with Naomi. His bookshelf and nightstand now have space for new books and photos.
See John organizing with Naomi:
https://www.gabrielhomes.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2025.04.18-jh-organizing-v1.mp4 “Caryn’s and my bedroom looks different from before, and now we know where to put everything away. Going to sleep is much easier when your room is organized.”
Shelby
Gabriel Homes Resident
“Our room had several things lying around that didn’t need to be there. With Naomi’s help, everything was organized perfectly!”
Caryn
Gabriel Homes Resident
Passion to Profession
Naomi found her calling as The Handy Ma’am when her church friends asked for help organizing their clutter during the early pandemic. Organizing was second nature to Naomi since she tidied her home for fun after work. Once she had a steady list of appointments, Naomi’s hobby became her full-time career.
“I am obsessed with organizing,” Naomi says. “Sometimes we’re blind to what’s in front of us, and our passions can become jobs.”
Naomi may offer professional organizing help, but residents are responsible for following through on her advice.
See how residents keep their spaces clean and comfy by seeing what a day in the life may look like at Gabriel Homes.
Learn MoreRecent home spotlights at Gabriel Homes:
Professional Organizer Benefits Gabriel Homes April 23, 2025 Read More Ensuring Quality Housing for Adults With IDD at Gabriel Homes February 24, 2025 Read More Exercise Builds Independence for Adults With IDD February 20, 2025 Read More dddcd
Special Olympics bowling is more than meeting with your buddies every Sunday.
Special Olympics bowling leagues stand out in comparison to sports like soccer or baseball because Special Olympics bowling brings every lane together. Athletes can also use equipment like bowling ramps and grips so everyone can join in on the fun.
See How They Roll:
Kari and January, two residents at Gabriel Homes, bowl each Sunday for the Northern Virginia Special Olympics. Having bowled together for over 25 years, they often share lanes and bowl as a team with their friends.
“I’ve been bowling since middle school, and I’ve gotten much stronger when rolling the ball,” January says. “I still practice before playing, and I’m working to grip the ball better to have more control.”
Athletes in the league say consistency is the hardest part about bowling. Sarah is a longtime friend and league competitor with January and Kari. She likes swinging the ball when she rolls because it helps her focus on the line and pins.
Sarah’s advice for new bowlers:
“Train very seriously. Have your parents teach you. Be on time when it’s your turn to bowl and have focus and concentration.”
Sarah, Special Olympics Bowler
Pins, Pins, Pins:
Looking at goals for this season, Kari wants to hit more pins. She’s yet to bowl a perfect game (bowling 12 strikes in a row), but she wants to improve her posture and movement to get the highest score.
“Bowling’s a hard sport, and we work a lot to roll more strikes and spares,” Kari says. “My coaches give me good advice when I warm up and ask for help.”
Both see drastic improvements in Special Olympics bowling over time.
Working with coaches and friends like Sarah, January and Kari are more confident when they head to the alley every Sunday.
“In the past, both ladies have attended State Games in Richmond during the summer Special Olympics games. Of course, they are cheered on for their strikes and good bowling scores. Bowling is a lifelong sport they can continue to enjoy for many years to come.”
Linda, Kari’s Mom
Special Olympics bowling is also fulfilling for coaches and organizers.
League coordinator Laura Cameron (right), whose daughter competes in the league, worked with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) when she was younger. Now with her daughter and the Special Olympics, Laura is more patient with athletes than before and believes her coaches are the foundation of the league’s success.
“The athletes are the reason we’re here,” Laura says. “Everyone’s encouraged to have fun. We don’t care who wins or loses. When you’re here, you make new friends and have fun.”
For Coach Kendall Heren...
... weekends are her time to be with people she advocates for. Coach Kendall helps guide parents of adults with IDD through special education hurdles at KNH Advocacy.
“I come back every week because I want to get to know all the athletes. Special education is one of those areas where you always see new types of people. For bowling, coaches should meet a middle ground with players: see where you can encourage independence and help them improve where they’re lacking.”
Coach Kendall
Friendships are the heart and soul of Special Olympics bowling.
Athletes and coaches run toward their friends and hug when they see each other. Lanes of players jump up and down and clap for their buddies when they roll spares or strikes. Every athlete brings something unique to Special Olympics bowling, like personalities and bowling styles.
“Everything is the best part about Special Olympics bowling,” January says. “I get to be with friends like Kari and Sarah, and I have fun cheering with my friends and coaches.”
January made it to states in Special Olympics soccer last year!
See how she and her team shined throughout the season at gabrielhomes.org/stories.
Learn MoreMore sports at Gabriel Homes:
Community Corner: Special Olympics Bowling Brings Family & Friends Together April 17, 2025 Read More Community Corner: The Physical and Mental Benefits of Bowling February 28, 2025 Read More Special Olympics Powerlifting Champions Return to Practice December 19, 2024 Read More Community Corner: Special Olympics Coaches’ Impact December 1, 2024 Read More Young Professionals Revitalize Nonprofit Boards November 25, 2024 Read More Special Olympics Soccer Shines With January November 7, 2024 Read More Gabriel Homes Powerlifters Pull a Plane at Dulles Airport October 4, 2024 Read More Gabriel Homes Forecasts the 2024 NFL Season September 12, 2024 Read More Board Member and Golf Enthusiast September 5, 2024 Read More dddcdOn April 11...
Gabriel Homes held its second annual Spring Fling, a celebration of the residents thanks to your donations. Dranesville United Methodist Church lent its space that had an open floor for dancing.
Residents arrived to the second annual Spring Fling in their favorite outfits, from comfy to business casual.
Gabe, Joe, and Sam wore button-down shirts, and Stephen donned his Garfield tie. Sean and Chris Y. rocked blazers, while his housemate Angie wore a blue cardigan sweater. Caryn wore her sparkly blue shirt, and Darcy put on her ruffled striped top.
“Garfield is one of my favorite comics, so I wear the tie for fun nights like the Spring Fling,.”
Stephen
Gabriel Homes Resident
The evening kicked off with residents and friends getting their photos taken at the balloon arch.
John H. and Rich R. couldn’t stop laughing when they took their photos, and Gabriel Homes staff Beth Hoyos was quick to join Kari and January for their photo.
“The balloon arch is a cool spot for photos! I like getting my photo taken so I can show my family that the Spring Fling is a blast.”
Patrick
Gabriel Homes Resident
Residents then made their way to spin a wheel for prizes.
Depending on the color they landed on, spinners could walk away with one to six trinkets of their choosing. Some residents’ strategies were spinning the wheel hard, and others did delicate spins.
Once everyone got photos done and won prizes, Gabriel Homes staffers Gwen and Naomi kicked the night off with a game of freeze dance. Funky music took to the airwaves as residents toe-tapped and rocked their bodies back and forth. Ultimately, Sean walked away champion of the first round, and Sara took home the gold for the second game.
“I won a fancy egg I could decorate for Easter. Freeze dance was easy for me since I love dancing songs in musicals.”
Sara
Gabriel Homes Resident
Freeze dance!
Everyone returned to their seats for dinner, and all eyes darted toward the vanilla Spring Fling cake for dessert.
While everyone was seated, Gabriel Homes kicked off Easter-themed bingo. The game of luck’s winners included Sean, Darcy, John H., and Sara.
“Bingo is awesome for the Spring Fling. I don’t usually get bingos, but I have more fun playing it with friends.”
Angie
Gabriel Homes Resident
Like last year’s Spring Fling and Boo Bash, residents began to raise the roof with karaoke.
Residents who had their songs planned for weeks made their way toward the front of the queue. Sean started the night singing “Bein’ Green” by Kermit the Frog.
The excitement kept rolling after Sean: January led the Easter Bunny Hop, Shelby sang “Leather and Lace” by Stevie Nicks, Joe and his bass voice performed “I’ve Been Thinking About You” by London Beat, John G. sang “Fly Me to the Moon,” and Rich D. jammed out to “Funkytown.” Residents couldn’t sit still, either, because everyone was on their feet dancing to every performance until their legs wore out.
Chris
Gabriel Homes Resident
By the end of the night, residents left the second annual Spring Fling clamoring for the next dance.
“I didn’t think tonight could be better than last year, but man, was I wrong!” Dave said, laughing. “I couldn’t stop telling Rich how much fun it was. There’s no other night like it.”
Want to help Gabriel Homes with our next dance?
See how you can volunteer with us and be a part of the Boo Bash! Learn MoreMore resident spotlights:
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 Professional Organizer Benefits Gabriel Homes April 23, 2025 Read More Community Corner: Special Olympics Bowling Brings Family & Friends Together April 17, 2025 Read More College Applications and Independent Living Tours Have Common Ground April 16, 2025 Read More Second Annual Spring Fling Raises the Roof April 15, 2025 Read More dddcd
In the April 2025 edition of our newsletter, The Treehouse, we are springing into the new season!
Join our residents in celebrating the warmer weather in this April 2025 newsletter.
Residents Welcome Spring With Fresh Styles
Wardrobes at Gabriel Homes are swapping from heavy coats to light jackets. Residents are happy they can wear their favorite clothes now that the weather is getting nicer. Almost everyone prefers wearing shorts to pants!
Check out everyone's favorite spring clothes at gabrielhomes.org, and follow us on social media for more news from our residents.
See what our residents are showing off
Follow us on social media to see more pictures of our residents:
Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter ThreadsResidents Enjoy Walkable Trails in Reston
Our residents love the walkable trails around their homes, especially in spring. No two trails are the same from home to home, so everyone can go on new adventures outdoors.
“I like walking in spring because the walks outside are relaxing.”
Lucy
Gabriel Homes Resident
See the trails our residents like to walk
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Gabriel Homes Celebrates Willie Lemay’s Legacy
A key plays on the Gabriel Homes Work Crew, Willie passed away on Feb. 13. Willie served his family and community with a wide smile and happy-go-lucky attitude. On the golf course and at Gabriel Homes, friends have no shortage of laugh-out-loud memories with Willie.
Read memories about Willie from family & friends
Community Corner
Gabriel Homes a Finalist for Nonprofit of the Year
Hosted yearly by the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, Gabriel Homes was selected as a finalist for its growth as an organization and impact on our community in 2024.
Learn more about the nominationWe 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
Shannon Bond-Young
Since joining the board in 2024, Shannon brings a wealth of knowledge with her background as a direct support provider. She serves today as director of the Public Guardianship program at the Arc of Northern Virginia.
“Growth is talking to adults about topics they are uncomfortable with and suggesting ideas or solutions together.”
-Shannon
Staff Spotlight
Rosa Voque-Vasquez
Rosa has cleaned our six homes since 2014. Many residents see her as family because she is naturally friendly and makes their homes cozy.
Cleaning for Gabriel Homes is like cleaning for my family.
Rosa Voque-Vasquez
See the importance of mental health with Mary
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.
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