Photo for IDD Professional in Virginia Champions Growth for Gabriel Homes March 26, 2025 IDD Professional in Virginia Champions Growth for Gabriel Homes View this Post
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Professionals who work with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in local nonprofits like in Virginia...

... can offer first-hand knowledge about challenges and recommendations nonprofit boards may face.

An IDD professional serving boards like Gabriel Homes can ensure that adults with IDD are heard and can also lead to fairer policies in Virginia.

Shannon Bond-Young, one IDD professional in Virginia, joined the Gabriel Homes Board of Directors in 2024.

Her career started as a direct support professional (DSP) for adults with IDD. She served adults with IDD in residential, day, and vocational programs and worked in crisis services, counseling, education, and more. Today, she’s the director of the Public Guardianship Program at the Arc of Northern Virginia.

“My style is getting to know adults with IDD personally and treating them like family. We joke with each other, but I’m also a straight shooter because I’m honest about helping adults meet their needs.”

Shannon Bond-Young

Shannon Bond-Young portrait. Shannon Bond-Young (left), an IDD professional in Virginia, with staff.

When the weather changes from cold to warm...

Shannon sees spring as a time of faith and hope for the people she serves. Some staff work with adults’ challenges over decades, but Shannon assures herself everyone can work through obstacles together. 

The Season of Change

In the new season, Shannon and other IDD professional workers in Virginia self-reflect and seek growth. Shannon believes people constantly change, and she sees success as a chance to improve herself.

“My grandma said, ‘You stop changing when you’re dead,’” Shannon says, laughing. “I start a list of things I can add to my life and not be stagnant, because we constantly change.”

People Bloom in Spring, Too!

Blooming flowers and rain showers signal growth in the new season. Shannon says adults with IDD should push themselves to try new things. Using person-centered support, according to Shannon, is a partnership between adults with IDD and their guardians.

“Growth is talking to adults with IDD about topics they’re uncomfortable with and suggesting ideas or solutions together,” Shannon says. “You see them grow when they make their own choices, including small ones like going on dates or changing hair color.”

Personal Spring Goals

Shannon says she’s ready to get to work with Gabriel Homes. As part of the Health & Welfare Committee, Shannon walks away with action items after every board meeting. Some of her goals this season include having accessible resources for adults with IDD and their families and looking at residents’ needs as they continue to get older.

“I love being hands-on with projects for the residents,” Shannon says. “Starting as a DSP and working my way up, I look forward to being a resource people can turn to for Gabriel Homes’ services and recommendations.”

Mental Health Matters

Shannon advocates for a greater focus on mental health for adults with IDD. She explains that people with autism and ADHD often lack support and but can grow with help from mental health resources. As a therapist, Shannon takes pride in providing services and partnering with experts at the Arc to help others with IDD.

“Professionals don’t talk about mental health enough,” Shannon says. “Encouraging more conversations about it and getting help from your community can make a difference in people’s lives.”

The March 2025 edition of our monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, celebrates physical and mental health for adults with IDD.

Read stories about mental health and our residents at gabrielhomes.org/stories, and get future editions in your inbox by signing up for our newsletter. Join The Treehouse Community

More Breaking News at Gabriel Homes:

Rosa Leads Spring Cleanings in Reston March 18, 2025 Read More

Residents Enjoy Accessible Trails in Reston March 12, 2025 Read More

Gabriel Homes Finalist for Reston Chamber Nonprofit of the Year March 6, 2025 Read More

Photo for Gabriel Homes Celebrates Willie Lemay and His Legacy March 21, 2025 Gabriel Homes Celebrates Willie Lemay and His Legacy View this Post
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William “Willie” Lemay, a key player on the Gabriel Homes Work Crew (GHWC), passed away on Feb. 13.

In his personal life and the public sector, Willie Lemay served his family, friends, and community and brought joy to everyone he met.

Willie Lemay (second to the left) with his family.

Willie graduated from Mount Vernon High School and earned his bachelor’s at American University.

He started at the United States Postal Service and transitioned to federal law enforcement. His experience prepared him for public sector leadership, where he served as chief of the Federal Protective Service at the General Service Administration.

“We always ran into people Willie knew because he met so many people at work,” said Sandy Lemay, Willie’s wife, laughing. “Whether we went to a different state, a store, or the airport, he’d track them down and say hi, even if he hadn’t seen them in 15 years.”

From left to right: Willie Lemay, Tony Artigliere, Johnny Young, Mickey Femino

Friends say Willie’s best traits were his contagious smile and personality.

One of his best friends, Mickey Femino (right), introduced him to GHWC through Past Chairman Mike Holupka. Willie immediately gelled with the crew thanks to his happy-go-lucky attitude. No GHWC task was too large for Willie Lemay, whether he had to trim trees, spread mulch, or paint the homes.

“Willie and another crew member were painting a room one day, and the coat was looking good. They were nearly done when one of them knocked over the paint bucket. Paint was all over the carpet. They got the vacuum to suck the paint up, but they had the setting on exhaust. The paint spread all over the room. The crew then had to clean up the paint for about three hours.”

Mickey Femino

At home, one of Willie’s greatest passions was baseball. Willie played the sport in grade school and coached little league and travel softball for over 40 years. For many years, Willie coached Osbourn Park High School’s varsity softball team. The Nationals and college softball were always on the TV in the garage, and Willie talked endlessly about sports with his family.

“My dad was the reason I was an athlete and loved sports. We were all rooting for the same D.C. teams. My family bought tickets for games and arranged Super Bowl parties at their home. I moved around a lot when I got married, but our family stayed connected talking about sports.”

Lisa Stephens, Willie’s Daughter
Willie Lemay (left) at the Gabriel Homes golf tournament.

When Willie had more free time after retirement, golf became one of his top hobbies.

Willie could compete in a low-impact sport. His first time golfing was on a trip with Mickey, and he was forever hooked on the sport from there. Despite not being an event planner, Willie wrote itineraries for twice-a-year golf trips. The group traveled to Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Ocean City, Md., and golfed at local courses in Prince William County. Willie and members of GHWC were also regular golfers at the Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament.

“Golf was more fun when Willie Lemay was around, and he was better at swinging than he let on. Willie did the Willie Shuffle after every swing, where he did a little turnaround jump with Muhammad Ali’s shuffle. Then, when Mickey hit the ball 50 yards past everyone, Willie sang Blue Bayou by Linda Ronstadt because Mickey’s shots always blew by you. Willie’s smile and humor added another level of fun when we golfed.” Jack Mannion. Jack Mannion Director, Health and Welfare Committee, Gabriel Homes Board of Directors

Mike echoed Jack’s comments on golfing and doing the Willie Shuffle: “The golf course was so much fun with Willie. He always wanted to hit first and do the shuffle. We miss him very much.”

Willie took pride in helping others chase their dreams, be it on the baseball diamond or at our homes in Reston. He never served others for his own credit; he gave back because he loved people.

“Dad was a family-first person. He was always helping around the house and cared about developing deep relationships.”

Lisa Stephens

Gabriel Homes thanks Willie Lemay for his years of service to our homes and residents.

Learn more about Willie’s legacy and read memories from friends at millerfuneralhome.net.

More on Willie External Link
Photo for Gabriel Homes Residents Welcome Spring with Fresh Styles March 20, 2025 Gabriel Homes Residents Welcome Spring with Fresh Styles View this Post
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Refreshing your wardrobe from heavy winter to fresh spring styles can spark fashion ideas and energize you for the new season.

At Gabriel Homes, many residents’ eyes are brightening for the change in seasons so they can change into fresh spring styles. Wardrobes are swapping from heavy to light clothes, and residents are spending more time outside thanks to longer evenings.

Patrick says he’s wearing his Hawaiian shirt more, while Darcy is changing from heavy coats to light jackets and sweatshirts.

“I’m excited about spring because I get to swap out my pants for shorts. Polos are my favorite shirts in spring, but I also like wearing my Camp Jaycee T-shirt since camp is my favorite time of year.” Gabriel Homes resident showing off his fresh spring style wit his Camp Jaycee shirt. Gabe Gabriel Homes Resident

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Gabriel Homes resident showing off his fresh spring style wit his Camp Jaycee shirt.
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Gabriel Homes resident watching game shows.
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Two Gabriel Homes residents at the spring fling.

Since flowers are blooming, many residents are locked in on what’s coming up this season.

Sean is looking forward to the Spring Fling and Memorial Day, and Stephen can’t wait to see his older brother in Florida.

“My dad’s picking me up and we’re celebrating Easter together,” says John (left). “It’s nice to dress up for the holidays, but I like wearing my shorts and white shirt around the house in spring.”

Switching to fresh spring styles can be exciting, but Sam says he’s missing winter already.

While he’s happy to wear more polos and T-shirts like others, he enjoys bundling up for colder weather.

“I’m fine with the changing weather. Wearing my dress is fun for church, and I can be more creative with my clothes when I work or go outside.”

Lucy, Gabriel Homes Resident
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Gabriel Homes residents welcoming fresh spring styles.

January and Kari’s favorite parts of spring are the outdoor birds and critters.

Both say their favorite birds are owls and robins, and they try to snap photos when they see birds flying.

“Going outside in the spring is awesome,” January says. “I like wearing a green shirt that I got seeing family in Portland, Oregon, and shorts are way more fun to wear than pants.” 

With new seasons come new adventures.

Check out upcoming stories from our residents by signing up for our newsletter at gabrielhomes.org.

Sign Up Today

Stories From Our Community:

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

Community Corner: Special Olympics Coaches’ Impact December 1, 2024 Read More

Community Corner: The Strength of Employing Adults with IDD November 4, 2024 Read More

Community Corner: Security for Your Siblings When You’re Out of State October 7, 2024 Read More

Board Member and Golf Enthusiast September 5, 2024 Read More

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

Photo for Rosa Leads Spring Cleanings in Reston March 18, 2025 Rosa Leads Spring Cleanings in Reston View this Post
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Spring cleanings improve productivity and creativity by turning clutter into clear, focused workspaces.

The home’s clean slate can spark outside-the-box ideas for the new season.

Rosa doing home cleanings in Reston.
Rosa doing home cleanings in Reston.

Rosa Voque-Vasquez has cleaned our six homes since 2014.

Doing cleanings in Reston and Herndon and by getting to know the residents, Rosa has formed personal bonds with them. She often spends extra time chatting with them about family and fixing small issues like fixing toilets or sinks or cleaning carpet spots.

“Cleaning for Gabriel Homes is like cleaning for my family. I organize their spaces because every room should look better than it was before.” Rosa doing home cleanings in Reston. Rosa Voque-Vasquez

When she started doing cleanings in Herndon and Reston, Rosa was unsure how she could connect with the residents.

Over time, her natural friendliness and interest in residents’ lives helped break the ice between them. Today, some residents see Rosa as family because she makes their homes feel cozy and visits them at Christmas parties.

“Our home looks amazing after Rosa sees us. She’s also a good friend because she’s kind to Rich and me. We’ve learned Spanish like ‘cómo está’ and ‘muy bien’ from her.” Rosa and Gabriel Homes resident. John Resident, Gabriel Homes

Rosa doing home cleanings in Reston.
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Rosa doing home cleanings in Reston.
Rosa doing home cleanings in Reston.

With her clients, Rosa sees the importance clean homes have on people’s quality of life. She believes adults of all abilities deserve tidy homes and the right to live dignified lives. Her work, residents and staff say, makes a difference in everyone’s daily lives.

“Rosa is more than generous to Gabriel Homes. She’s invested in our residents’ well-being and helps them take pride in their living spaces.”

Lynn Davis, Executive Director, Gabriel Homes
Photo for Residents Enjoy Walkable Trails in Reston March 12, 2025 Residents Enjoy Walkable Trails in Reston View this Post
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Walkable trails, like many found in Reston, are better for your health and relationships.

Everyone, including Gabriel Homes residents, can enjoy nature comfortably when the Reston trails are walkable, have wide paths, and are free of debris.

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Gabriel Homes was founded in Reston because its inclusive community offered opportunities for people of all abilities.

Groups like the Reston Accessibility Committee push for inclusivity across the city. With walkable trails in their backyards, our residents can explore the outdoors safely and independently.

“I like walking in the spring the most because the weather is warm but not too hot. The trails clear my mind after work, and walks outside are relaxing.” Gabriel Homes resident on a walk on a trail in Reston. Lucy Gabriel Homes Resident

The Reston Trails

Residents cherish the walkable trails around their homes, especially in spring. John and Rich walk with Lucy on their days off. The group are close friends who hold each other accountable for walking. Their usual trail is in the heart of the neighborhood, and the group says hi to everyone who crosses their paths. 

“We walk over a mile and a half together. My legs feel great because the trails aren’t too hard and we step outside daily.” Gabriel Homes resident. Rich Gabriel Homes Resident
Gabriel Homes residents walking on Reston trails.
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Reston trails.
Reston trails in backyard.

No two Reston trails are the same from home to home.

Sean lives over a mile and a half away from John and Rich, but his favorite path is a 30-minute trek each way to and from their home.

“Our backyard has an easy trail that gets onto the main sidewalk toward John and Rich’s home. Rich is kind when I see him. He offers me a glass of water when I stop by. I usually have one or two drinks before I head home.”

Sean, Gabriel Homes Resident

In the heart of Reston, residents enjoy comfortable homes and supportive neighbors. Their easy-to-use trails allow people of all ages and abilities to stay active and connected. Every step is a step toward healthier, more inclusive lives. 

The walkable trails in Reston is one of several ways our residents stay in shape!

See all the ways residents exercise at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Check out all our stories
Photo for Gabriel Homes Finalist for Reston Chamber Nonprofit of the Year March 6, 2025 Gabriel Homes Finalist for Reston Chamber Nonprofit of the Year View this Post
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Gabriel Homes is a finalist for Nonprofit of the Year for the 2025 Awards for Chamber Excellence (ACE) in Reston.

Hosted yearly by the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce (GRCC), the ACE Awards honor Reston’s innovators and trailblazers. GRCC members nominate and vote on the finalists for businesses, entrepreneurs, and nonprofits.

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Gabriel Homes at the Spring Fling.
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Gabriel Homes saw growth and change in 2024 leading to the nomination.

In April, Gabriel Homes unveiled its new logo, a tree sheltered in a home, and launched the new gabrielhomes.org featuring a modern design.

Residents in the spring and fall celebrated two new parties, the Spring Fling and Boo Bash. And for Gabriel Homes’ end-of-year campaign, the community came together and raised 32% more funds than they raised in 2023.

“We are deeply honored to be recognized as a finalist for Nonprofit of the Year at this year’s ACE Awards. Our nomination is possible thanks to our staff, who put their heart and soul into fostering independence for our residents.” Lynn Davis, executive director of Gabriel Homes. Lynn Davis Executive Director, Gabriel Homes Golfers at Gabriel Homes golf tournament. The participants are from Northwest Federal Credit Union.

Gabriel Homes has also used GRCC member benefits to build relationships with local businesses and nonprofits.

By networking and partnering with Northwest Federal Credit Union (NWFCU), some staff have participated in our annual golf tournament, and NWFCU became a gold sponsor in 2024.

“The Chamber is a game changer for businesses and nonprofits. Connections through GRCC enable Gabriel Homes to serve the residents better and expand its services.”

Leslie Kane, Member, Development Committee, Gabriel Homes Board of Directors; Host, Why Not Today Podcast

Congratulations to the finalists in each category. The ACE Awards will be held on June 26 at the Crowne Plaza Dulles Airport Hotel.

Looking to discover more amazing news from Gabriel Homes?

You can read about all the work accomplished by our talented staff by signing up for our newsletter.

Join our community

More news at Gabriel Homes:

The Treehouse: April 2025 Newsletter April 7, 2025 Read More Gabriel Homes Celebrates Willie Lemay and His Legacy March 21, 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 Residents Enjoy Accessible Trails in Reston March 12, 2025 Read More Gabriel Homes Finalist for Reston Chamber Nonprofit of the Year March 6, 2025 Read More The Treehouse: March 2025 Newsletter March 3, 2025 Read More Caryn Marks 30 Years of Residence at Gabriel Homes February 18, 2025 Read More Night to Shine Leaves Residents Dazzling February 10, 2025 Read More
Photo for The Treehouse: March 2025 Newsletter March 3, 2025 The Treehouse: March 2025 Newsletter View this Post
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The March 2025 edition of our newsletter, The Treehouse, celebrates physical and mental health.

Our residents make great strides in their health as our community rallies around them. Thank you for joining us in celebrating our residents in this March 2025 newsletter.

Gabriel Homes resident at Night to Shine 2025.
Gabriel Homes resident at Night to Shine 2025.
Gabriel Homes resident at Night to Shine 2025.

Residents Dazzle at Night to Shine

When you head to parties planned by your community, you can build your self-esteem and feel a greater sense of purpose.

The Tim Tebow Foundation rolled out the red carpet for guests with disabilities on February 7 at Night to Shine. Our residents were greeted by professional paparazzi, got their shoes shined and makeup done, and danced the night away.

Check out photos from Night to Shine at gabrielhomes.org, and follow us on social media for more news from our residents.

See the recap of Night to Shine

Follow us on social media to see more pictures of our residents:

Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter Threads

Reston Dentist Keeps Residents' Teeth Healthy

Dr. Amy Ton, cosmetic dentist at Sunrise Dental, prides herself on her one-on-one relationships. Residents are among the office's favorite patients because they brighten the staff's days.

"By getting to know our patients, we're improving their overall health."

Dr. Ton

Learn more about Sunrise Dental and our residents

Gabriel Homes resident checking in at the dentist's in Reston.
Gabriel Homes resident at Sunrise Dental in Reston.

Do you know somebody who's missing 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.

Gabriel Homes resident listening to music.
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Pierrein (left), residential counselor, with resident.
Gabriel Homes resident sitting on a balcony overseeing a lake.
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Gabriel Homes resident powerlifting at tournament.
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Gabriel Homes resident at Frying Pan Park in Herndon.
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Exercise Builds Independence

Fitness differs from person to person. Our residents stay in shape by going on walks, using the treadmill, or going to the gym.

"I like to go on 30-minute walks. The summer and spring are my favorite times of year to go outside." Gabriel Homes resident at Magic Kingdom. Sean Gabriel Homes Resident

See how our residents stay in shape

Healthy Homes Protect Our Residents

Our residents live in quality, healthy homes. Gabriel Homes handles replacements and repairs as needed so residents can focus on their independence.

See how home maintenance keeps our residents healthy at gabrielhomes.org.

Community Corner

Gabriel Homes resident holding bowling ball. The sport boosts physical and mental health.

One of our residents, Dave, has been competing in a bowling league with close friends.

Learn from fellow bowlers how the sports helps with your concentration, flexibility, and balance at gabrielhomes.org.

See why staff chose their words

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

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Health & Welfare Committee

Quality housing and services become more pressing as residents got older. In response, the Board of Directors formed the Health & Welfare Committee. The committee interviewed families to see how Gabriel Homes could help with future planning.

"Continuity of care is critical for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities."

Sibling of a Resident

See how GHI adapts to changing needs

Staff Spotlight

Mary MacNabb

Mary hit the ground running when she joined Gabriel Homes as a social worker in 2024.

"You need mental and physical health to be a full person. Being there for mental health support helps the residents feel better about themselves and succeed in the world."

Mary MacNabb

See the importance of mental health with Mary

Mary MacNabb portrait.

Reminder!

Let staff know at least 24 hours in advance if you make plans with your family member. Giving Gabriel Homes notice assures us that every resident is taken care of if they’re not home.

Use the on-call phone number or email staff to notify us.

Remember to email us your feedback if you have any questions, suggestions, or ideas for future editions of The Treehouse.

Feel free to send our newsletter to any friends or family who don’t receive it. Share our newsletter sign-up link so they can join today.

Follow Gabriel Homes on all your favorite social media platforms: FacebookLinkedInInstagramTwitterThreads.

We appreciate donations of any amounts.

Consider making a donation to Gabriel Homes today.

Donate

More stories you may have missed:

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 Gabriel Homes Residents Welcome Spring with Fresh Styles March 20, 2025 Read More Rosa Leads Spring Cleanings in Reston March 18, 2025 Read More Residents Enjoy Walkable Trails in Reston March 12, 2025 Read More Gabriel Homes Finalist for Reston Chamber Nonprofit of the Year March 6, 2025 Read More The Treehouse: March 2025 Newsletter March 3, 2025 Read More
Photo for Community Corner: The Physical and Mental Benefits of Bowling February 28, 2025 Community Corner: The Physical and Mental Benefits of Bowling View this Post
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By challenging your body and mind...

... bowling strikes a perfect balance between physical and mental strength. Fitness experts say bowling can improve your flexibility and balance, and psychologists say the sport is keen on concentration and focus.

Gabriel Homes resident holding bowling ball. The sport boosts physical and mental health.
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Physical and Mental Health Join in Bowling

Dave, a resident at Gabriel Homes, competes in a friendly bowling league with his friends at Bowlero in Fairfax. The league meets every Wednesday for over 30 weeks. Many bowlers become close friends over the season, and Dave’s outgoingness brings groups together. Teams trash-talk each other, but everyone celebrates together when players roll strikes.

“Players in our league want to get out and have a good time together. People’s lives have changed for the better here because they’re passionate about the sport and the people around them.” Friend of Gabriel Homes resident bowling. The sport tests players mentally and physically. David Whitcomb League Commissioner, Dave’s Longtime Friend Gabriel Homes resident holding bowling ball. The sport boosts physical and mental health.

The rules for bowling may not change, but players get ready for play in unique ways.

“When I was younger, I couldn’t hit as many pins because I rolled balls underhanded,” Dave says. “David taught me to hold the ball and keep my balance when I rolled like the pros. I trained my brain in bowling like how players train their muscles in the gym.”

Another challenge when bowling is blocking out the alley’s sights and sounds. Some players say alleys are like casinos since both have distracting screens and noises.

“I listen to music when I roll because I can better focus on myself. Music calms me down and stops my brain from overthinking my turn. The type of music doesn’t matter as long as my brain doesn’t wander.”

Steve, Bowler
Gabriel Homes resident holding bowling ball. The sport boosts physical and mental health.
Friend of Gabriel Homes resident bowling. The sport tests players mentally and physically.
Gabriel Homes resident holding bowling ball. The sport boosts physical and mental health.

Moving from the mind to the body, some bowlers work on their form for decades.

Fixing postures and rolling angles, for example, can take years to master. Bowlers recommend returning to alleys consistently and learning techniques from experts.

“I’ve been bowling for over 30 years, and I’ve only gotten better by practicing – a lot. Playing in leagues for years, I’ve figured out my best starting position and stance. Being accurate and consistent have been the biggest challenges.” Gabriel Homes resident holding bowling ball. The sport boosts physical and mental health. Richard Dave's Teammate Gabriel Homes resident holding bowling ball. The sport boosts physical and mental health.

Dave’s bowling league is diverse in skill level, background, and age.

Every bowler has their reasons for rolling, but the love of the lanes and friends brings players together. Players say there’s an opportunity for anybody in bowling, no matter their demographics.

“Bowling is an ageless sport,” says Shirley, Dave’s close league friend. “Playing is good exercise because bowling uses your body’s finesse, not action. My mom’s 91 years old and is rolling strikes to this day!”

Residents at Gabriel Homes compete in all types of sports, from softball to soccer and more.

Catch up on all our residents’ achievements on and off the field at gabrielhomes.org/stories. See the Latest

Photo for Social Workers Spotlight Mental Health for Adults With IDD February 26, 2025 Social Workers Spotlight Mental Health for Adults With IDD View this Post
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Mental Health Matters: Social workers can help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) achieve independence by building bonds, learning about their needs, and empowering them to make good decisions.

Not all group home providers have full-time social workers on staff. However, for adults with IDD, Gabriel Homes sees the value in investing in and emphasizing our residents’ mental health.

Gabriel Homes staff at leadership development retreat.

Mary MacNabb (back row, center) joined Gabriel Homes as a social worker in 2024.

She hit the ground running in her onboarding to get to know the residents and their dynamics. When she meets with residents, she aims to help them feel comfortable and share their thoughts freely. 

See her staff bio “You need mental and physical health to be a full person. For adults with IDD, being there for mental health support helps the residents feel better about themselves and succeed in the world.” Mary MacNabb portrait. Mary MacNabb Social Worker, Gabriel Homes Gabriel Homes residents at the spring fling.

Residents open up to others in different ways.

Some who don’t like making eye contact are more talkative in the car when they and the driver have their sights on the road. Others prefer sitting down and sharing their thoughts with Mary face-to-face. 

“When you meet with the residents, you see their needs change over time,” says Beth Hoyos, director of quality improvement and clinical oversight. “Many residents moved into Gabriel Homes when they were young adults. Over time, we spend more time talking about the challenges of aging everyone faces.”

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Gabriel Homes residents at the golf tournament.
Gabriel Homes resident on a boat at a lake.

Mary believes the best meetings are when the residents are being themselves.

When residents speak freely with Mary, she can better understand and support their goals. Her biggest early challenge was gaining the residents’ trust, but breakthroughs in building relationships came over time.

“One of my favorite memories was heading to a resident’s room, asking them to catch up, and seeing them smile. They looked comfortable opening up to me, and we finished our conversation feeling more confident together.”

Mary MacNabb, Social Worker, Gabriel Homes

Your community can be a valuable support system alongside mental health professionals.

Join Gabriel Homes in celebrating our residents’ milestones by signing up for our newsletter.

Sign Up Today

More news at Gabriel Homes:

Caryn Marks 30 Years of Residence at Gabriel Homes February 18, 2025 Read More Night to Shine Leaves Residents Dazzling February 10, 2025 Read More The Treehouse: February 2025 Newsletter February 3, 2025 Read More Community Corner: Teambuilding at Why Not Today’s Art Event January 31, 2025 Read More The Treehouse: January 2025 Newsletter January 6, 2025 Read More
Photo for Ensuring Quality Housing for Adults With IDD at Gabriel Homes February 24, 2025 Ensuring Quality Housing for Adults With IDD at Gabriel Homes View this Post
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Residents have lived at Gabriel Homes, Inc. (GHI) for an average of 23 years.

Since many have been residents since their 20s or 30s, their needs have changed. Quality housing for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) has evolved at GHI with projects that protect them, like shower units.

Bathroom house maintenance made possible thanks to donations.
Desk at Gabriel Homes. Adults with IDD have accessible housing to protect their health and wellbeing.

The GHI Board of Directors asked themselves in 2019: How can we meet the needs of our residents as they continue to age?

Comfortable housing and quality services became more pressing for residents’ safety, something critical for anyone working with adults with IDD. The board’s Health & Welfare Committee helps Gabriel Homes adapt to residents’ needs as they age.

“Staff were asked to assess the residents’ abilities to complete their activities of daily living (ADLs) – where all residents passed 100% of their ADLs,” says “And the board interviewed 10 families of residents aged 45 and older about their plans for hands-on assistance.” Jack Mannion Director, Executive and Health and Welfare Committees

Families valued GHI’s services and felt their family members were independent.

The board advised staff to communicate more with families about independence and service criteria for future planning.

“GHI offers independence for adults with IDD. Families should plan for assisted living when needs increase. Life after GHI can feel overwhelming for families. But everyone welcomed clear, realistic expectations about GHI’s mission and services.”

Sooz Perry, Former Co-Director, Health & Welfare Committee
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Gabriel Homes residents watching game shows.
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The board was touched by the families’ praise for GHI’s services.

Many families were grateful to see their family members be independent. They were comfortable knowing GHI could handle tasks like appointments and home renovations.

“Continuity of care is critical for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. I’m impressed with Gabriel Homes’ vision and planning to care for residents as they age.”

Sibling of a Gabriel Homes Resident

Our board has four committees: Executive, Health & Welfare, Development, and Infrastructure.

Learn more about how our committees serve GHI’s mission. More on the Board of Directors

The latest from the board:

IDD Professional in Virginia Champions Growth for Gabriel Homes March 26, 2025 Read More

Ensuring Accessible 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