Reston, Va. — Gabriel Homes, a leading housing provider for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), is proud to announce that the 30th Annual Golf Tournament at Evergreen Country Club raised over $78,000 in support of its mission.
118 golfers swung into action in celebration of community, competition, and generosity.
Clear skies and 80-degree weather were the perfect backdrop to a strong showing of support for the residents at Gabriel Homes.
Monsignor Bob Cilinski opened the event with remarks, followed by a rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner performed by Mark Forrest. Golfers then made their way to their shotgun start spots as play started across the scenic 18-hole course. Some Gabriel Homes residents volunteered their time by cheering on and meeting the golfers; one resident, Dave, competed in the tournament.
More photos from the Gabriel Homes 30th Annual Golf Tournament:
After five hours on the links, Gabriel Homes golfers, volunteers, staff, and residents came together for dinner.
Those who purchased raffle and prize tickets were glued to their seats as Gabriel Homes announced the lucky numbers for each item. This year’s super prize was an oil painting done by local artist Mike Flynn.
“Gabriel Homes serves its mission of independence for adults with IDD because of our community’s support. Everyone who participated in this year’s tournament ensured that our residents could continue to live with fulfillment and purpose.” 
Michele Bolos Chair, Gabriel Homes Board of Directors
More photos from the Gabriel Homes 30th Annual Golf Tournament:
The highlight of the tournament was the community’s shared passion for giving back.
Proceeds from the event help empower adults with IDD to achieve their goals, including building independence and self-advocacy.
“It’s also important to acknowledge the hard work of our Gabriel Homes staff. The passion and commitment they show to every resident inspires us all.” 
Lynn Davis Executive Director, Gabriel Homes
Gabriel Homes sends a special thank you to this year’s Guardian Angel sponsors:
Thank you to our meal, drink, and gift sponsors:
Looking to be a part of next year’s tournament?
If you are interested in joining us or sponsoring the 31st Annual Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament, email info@gabrielhomes.org for more information. Get involved today!
More photos from the Gabriel Homes 30th Annual Golf Tournament:
In the September 2025 edition of our newsletter, The Treehouse, our board of directors is sharing their wisdom and insights based on their diverse backgrounds.
From the growth of Gabriel Homes to how families can benefit from The Arc of NoVa’s services, this edition is full of resources anybody can use. Dive into everything there is to offer in September 2025 edition of our monthly newsletter, The Treehouse.
The Latest:
By Michele Bolos
As chair of the board, Michele has seen the growth of Gabriel Homes’ services and community-wide impact. Her approach to service has changed, proudly serving as an ambassador for Gabriel Homes.
How did moving into a leadership role affect her roles for Gabriel Homes? You’ll have to see for yourself at gabrielhomes.org.
See the roles our leaders take on for Gabriel Homes
By Donna Patchett
Our secretary on the board of directors, Donna also serves on the board of the The Arc of NoVa. The advocacy group champions policies that support the full inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
You may not know that the Arc has a wealth of information through its resource library and innovative programs.
See how the Arc empowers everyone
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.
Who is somebody you know who may not follow us on social media? Get your network involved with Gabriel Homes and share your favorite stories:
Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter Threads 
By Alex Buellesbach
Fiduciaries provide support, ensuring adults with IDD have financial security throughout their lives.
Learn from Alex Buellesbach, the founder and managing advisor of Cottage Hill Capital, about fiduciaries’ significant roles in financial and future planning for adults with IDD.
Learn more about fiduciaries’ critical roles
By Elaine Bickel
Fun fact: Our treasurer of the board worked for Gabriel Homes in the 1990s as a part-time bookkeeper!
“When the opportunity arose to return in a board capacity, it felt like a full-circle moment.”
Learn more about the high points of Elaine’s tenure as an employee, and see how her return to the board showed her a broader view of the organization at gabrielhomes.org.
See how our finances have transformed over decades
By Shalini Kapur
As chair of the development committee, Shalini planned to contribute to Gabriel Homes through her network, skills, and ideas. Never did she realize she’d make such impactful relationships with a tight-knit group of leaders!
“Our relationships have made my service more effective
Shalini Kapur
in fulfilling our mission.”
See how interpersonal relationships elevate our board
Staff Spotlight:
Staff Have July 4 Party in Reston With the Residents
When the residents are not traveling, they are celebrating their independence at home. On July 4, program coordinators Naomi Pariona (first picture, left), and Daniel Borges (first picture, right) planned an Independence Day extravaganza.
See how our residents celebrated July 4
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:
Sarah Carwile: How Special Olympics Impacts My Board Service September 19, 2025 Read More
Acting As a Fiduciary and Future Planning for Adults With IDD September 8, 2025 Read More
Elaine Bickel: Returning to Gabriel Homes – Our Financial Growth August 29, 2025 Read More
Michele Bolos: How Expectations Change on a Nonprofit Board August 28, 2025 Read More
The Treehouse: September 2025 Newsletter August 26, 2025 Read More
Shalini Kapur: Friendships Made Serving on the Board of Directors August 25, 2025 Read More
Why I Keep Coming Back to Gabriel Homes for House Projects August 15, 2025 Read More
Donna Patchett: How The Arc of NOVA Empowers Everyone August 14, 2025 Read More
The Treehouse: August 2025 Newsletter August 6, 2025 Read More
Special Olympics Softball in Loudoun: Rich’s Risky Move Pays Off July 31, 2025 Read More
Spontaneous Thinking Sparks the Best Events July 29, 2025 Read More
Patrick’s Family Reunion in South Carolina July 23, 2025 Read More
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As a financial advisor, the idea of working as a fiduciary has been ingrained into my practice and decision making from the very beginning.
Acting in the best interest of clients and putting their interests ahead of my own when making financial recommendations comes second nature. This thoughtful way of helping others shouldn’t be limited to only financial services: It’s also an act we all can take on when helping others who may not have the capacity to help themselves.
Acting as a fiduciary plays a significant role in financial and future planning for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Fiduciaries’ responsibilities include:
- Financial Management: Fiduciaries, such as trustees or financial guardians, manage assets to ensure the individual's financial stability, including handling investments, budgeting, and bill payments.
- Special Needs Trusts: They administer special needs trusts, which protect eligibility for government benefits while providing additional financial support.
- Legal Representation: Fiduciaries can make legal decisions related to the individual's finances, healthcare, and personal affairs, depending on the legal arrangement.
- Advocacy: They advocate for the individual's best interests in financial, legal, and healthcare settings.
Fiduciaries can also help address obstacles including:
- Benefit Eligibility: Navigating complex rules to maintain eligibility for benefits like Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
- Financial Exploitation: Protecting against fraud and financial abuse.
- Long-Term Planning: Developing sustainable plans to cover lifelong care needs.
- Complex Legal Systems: Managing legal requirements around guardianship, trusts, and estate planning.
- Family Dynamics: Mediating family disagreements over care and financial decisions.
Fiduciaries provide support, ensuring adults with IDD receive appropriate care and financial security throughout their lives. Let’s bring more awareness of this essential need together!
More board spotlights:
How Expectations Change on a Nonprofit Board of Directors August 28, 2025 Read More
Acting As a Fiduciary and Future Planning for Adults With IDD August 21, 2025 Read More
Donna Patchett: How The Arc of NOVA Empowers Everyone August 14, 2025 Read More
Special Education Advocate in Virginia Emphasizes Independence June 18, 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
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The relationships and friendships I’ve built on the board of directors have been some of the most meaningful and impactful parts of my service.
At first, I thought I’d contribute to Gabriel Homes through my network, skills, and ideas. I never thought I’d find such a tight-knit, supportive group of leaders!
Over time, connections with the board of directors and staff have grown into true friendships. Our relationships have made my service more effective in fulfilling our mission.
By building trust with each other, our conversations become more open and honest. Differences of opinion are easier to navigate because we respect one another. I see firsthand how our board can resolve decisions with grace because we take the time to understand everyone's points of view. We support and listen to each other because we share a deep commitment to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The connection between the board and staff matters equally to me.
I work closely with staff members on everything from events to strategic planning. Our collaborations help me see how our strategies come to life through their work.
When board members and staff communicate clearly, Gabriel Homes becomes a stronger, more united organization. I make it a point to stay approachable, ask questions, and listen to the staff’s insights. Everyone’s perspectives keep my decisions grounded and focused on what matters most: the residents.
Interpersonal relationships elevate a board from functional to exceptional.
Through trust, respect, and open communication, we create a space where everyone feels invested in the outcome. Our shared sense of purpose, strengthened by our connections, keeps me coming back.
Many of the photos in this article are from the Gabriel Homes Annual Golf Tournament.
Want to join in on the fun as a golfer, sponsor, or volunteer? See everything there is to know about the tournament at gabrielhomes.org/golf. Click Here
More spotlights from the board:
Sarah Carwile: How Special Olympics Impacts My Board Service September 19, 2025 Read More
Acting As a Fiduciary and Future Planning for Adults With IDD September 8, 2025 Read More
Elaine Bickel: Returning to Gabriel Homes – Our Financial Growth August 29, 2025 Read More
How Expectations Change on a Nonprofit Board of Directors August 28, 2025 Read More
Shalini Kapur: Friendships Made Serving on the Board of Directors August 25, 2025 Read More
Why I Keep Coming Back to Gabriel Homes for House Projects August 15, 2025 Read More
Donna Patchett: How The Arc of NOVA Empowers Everyone August 14, 2025 Read More
Special Education Advocate in Virginia Emphasizes Independence June 18, 2025 Read More
Faith Leader in Virginia Is a Father Figure to Many May 28, 2025 Read More
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Thirty years ago, I saw an ad in my parish’s bulletin for a nonprofit that needed a bookkeeper.
My children were little, and I wasn’t working outside of the home. Having extra time on my hands, I applied for the role and ended up working at Gabriel Homes for about five years.
Setting Gabriel Homes up for Financial Success
Working at Gabriel Homes was a privilege that left a lasting impression on me. I helped formalize our accounting with the new software at the time. The most exciting days were the days we expanded. Gabriel Homes had four homes when I started, and we bought two more before I left. The bookkeeping and financial growth reflected Gabriel Homes’ care, compassion, and commitment to the residents.
Compared to when I was an employee, serving on the board offers a broader view of the organization as a whole. Gabriel Homes is more focused and thoughtful on its growth, with more ways to bring in funding and plan for the future. There is now a solid system in place to support financial planning, oversight, and accountability.
Equally important is our financial transparency. What was once a small operation in the ‘90s is now a system with clearly defined financial policies, regular reporting, and board-level engagement in budgeting and audits. Transparency around finances has strengthened trust among our families, donors, and community, and it helps the board to make more informed decisions.
My time on the board concludes at the end of the year.
Since returning to Gabriel Homes in 2016, we’ve made steady progress in building a foundation for the future. We are in a strong financial position thanks to the hard work of many people. I’m proud of where Gabriel Homes is and am excited for what’s ahead.
The Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame recognizes long-standing supporters of our mission.
Learn about others who have dedicated decades of their time in service to Gabriel Homes at gabrielhomes.org.
See Our Hall of FameMore spotlights from the board:
Sarah Carwile: How Special Olympics Impacts My Board Service September 19, 2025 Read More Acting As a Fiduciary and Future Planning for Adults With IDD September 8, 2025 Read More Elaine Bickel: Returning to Gabriel Homes – Our Financial Growth August 29, 2025 Read More How Expectations Change on a Nonprofit Board of Directors August 28, 2025 Read More Shalini Kapur: Friendships Made Serving on the Board of Directors August 25, 2025 Read More Why I Keep Coming Back to Gabriel Homes for House Projects August 15, 2025 Read More Donna Patchett: How The Arc of NOVA Empowers Everyone August 14, 2025 Read More Special Education Advocate in Virginia Emphasizes Independence June 18, 2025 Read More Faith Leader in Virginia Is a Father Figure to Many May 28, 2025 Read More dddcd
First Impressions
When I first joined the Gabriel Homes board, I expected to support an organization providing residential services to adults with developmental disabilities. What I didn’t fully anticipate was how deeply rooted the mission is in every aspect of the organization. The compassionate staff, the families’ dedication, and the strong focus on resident’s growth and dignity all reflect the commitment to independence for everyone.
Over time, I’ve seen Gabriel Homes grow not just in services but in impact.
We’ve become more intentional about advocacy, expanded our community presence, and continued evolving our programs to meet increasingly complex needs. I’ve also watched our leadership grow more strategic, while never losing sight of the heart of the work: the residents.
My understanding of what board service meant has also changed.
I initially thought of it as governance and oversight. I now see that it includes a fiduciary responsibility to our donors and a partnership in our fundraising efforts. Throughout our community, our leaders are ambassadors for an organization that truly changes lives.
Leadership and Board Governance
As I became more involved with Gabriel Homes and took on a leadership role on the board, my focus shifted toward strengthening our governance. I’ve worked to ensure that our policies and practices are clearly defined and well documented. When the board installs its next chair, my goal is to leave knowing that strong processes are in place to sustain the mission consistently, effectively, and with lasting impact.
If you’ve ever considered serving on a board, now is a great time to explore the opportunity.
Board service is a meaningful way to give back, share your skills, and help shape the future of a mission-driven organization. Whether you have experience in finance, advocacy, fundraising, or simply a passion for making a difference, your perspective matters. You don’t need to have all the answers, just a willingness to learn, engage, and contribute.
We want to hear from you!
If the idea of making a direct impact on your community resonates with you, we’d love to connect and share more about what board service can look like. Please don’t hesitate to reach out by filling out our contact form! Click Here
More from the board:
Acting As a Fiduciary and Future Planning for Adults With IDD August 22, 2025 Read More
How Expectations Change on a Nonprofit Board of Directors August 14, 2025 Read More
Donna Patchett: How The Arc of NOVA Empowers Everyone August 14, 2025 Read More
Special Education Advocate in Virginia Emphasizes Independence June 18, 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
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Are you familiar with The Arc of Northern Virginia?
For more than sixty years, this nonprofit has served the needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and those who support them. The Arc of NoVa advocates at the local, state, and national levels for policies that support the full inclusion of people with IDD and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
Serving on the boards of both Gabriel Homes and The Arc of Northern Virginia, I see the latter as my go-to source for information about all things related to IDD.
The Arc of NoVa offers a wealth of resources that may be of interest to the families of Gabriel Homes residents. Their online resource library includes information on ABLE accounts and special needs trusts, guardianship and supported decision making, Medicaid, aging with a disability, and more. The Arc’s YouTube channel includes more than 100 recorded webinars and helpful video tutorials on a wide range of subjects. For personalized assistance, contact The Arc through their information and referral portal, or schedule an intake interview with a volunteer. You may end up meeting with me!
Schedule Your Call With the Arc
Innovations at The Arc of NoVa
One of The Arc of NoVa’s most innovative programs is Tech for Independent Living (TFIL). At the heart of the program is Arc2Independence, a mobile app designed to empower individuals with disabilities to achieve greater independence in their daily lives. The app has over 300 lessons across four core categories: Transportation, Safety, Daily Living, and Employment. The TFIL team hosts several events throughout the year, so there are plenty of chances to practice using the app and see how it can be a part of daily life.
For many families, the Arc’s Special Needs Trust Program is an important tool in their financial planning for their loved one with IDD. The program helps people with disabilities and their families save money for the future without affecting their public benefits. Medicaid and Social Security, for example, have strict asset caps.
Get involved with The Arc of NoVa!
To learn more, visit thearcofnova.org, subscribe to their newsletter, connect on social media, and check out their calendar of events. Click Here
More from the board:
Acting As a Fiduciary and Future Planning for Adults With IDD August 22, 2025 Read More
Donna Patchett: How The Arc of NOVA Empowers Everyone August 12, 2025 Read More
Special Education Advocate in Virginia Emphasizes Independence June 18, 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
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In the August 2025 edition of our newsletter, The Treehouse, our residents are going on adventures in and outside of Reston.
Residents travel throughout Virginia for the Special Olympics and down the East Coast for sunny shores. See everything there is to offer in August 2025 edition of our monthly newsletter, The Treehouse.
The Latest:
Camp Jaycee Shines Over Our Residents’ Summers
Every July and August, our residents pack their bags for two weeks of nonstop action at Camp Jaycee in Effort, Pa. Every day is as diverse as the residents’ interests.
See what’s in store for residents who go to Camp Jaycee at gabrielhomes.org.
Learn more about summer at Camp Jaycee
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.
Follow us for updates every week on social media:
Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter Threads
Joe’s Beach Trips to Delaware and South Carolina
The beach holds a special place in Joe’s heart. He visits his mom and stepdad, Patti and Ken, in South Carolina; his dad and stepmom, Rick and Pat, live on the Delaware shores.
The water feels cold at first, but it warms up pretty quickly. I like seeing all the boats sailing and planes flying. 
Joe Gabriel Homes Resident
See Joe strolling on the shores
Patrick’s Family Reunion Joins 30+ Loved Ones
Also in South Carolina, Patrick played bocce on the beach, showed off his signature Pat Putts on the golf course, and flexed his muscles at family trivia.
Seeing the whole family is great because they care for and love me.
Patrick, Gabriel Homes Resident
Check out Patrick’s highlights
TRADE: Rich Joins Loudoun Rangers for Special Olympics Softball
After moving to the Loudoun Rangers, Rich was able to compete in more travel Special Olympics softball tournaments. One trip saw the Rangers competing in the VA Moose Softball Tournament in Lynchburg.
The results? See for yourself at gabrielhomes.org.
Watch highlights from Rich
Staff Spotlight:
Karen’s Spontaneous Events in Reston
Reston is full of local events if you look closely enough. Karen Adams (center) is sharp when finding local events.
“When Karen takes us out for events, I feel good that I’m being independent.”
-Rich, Gabriel Homes Resident
Staff Celebrate July 4 With Residents in Reston
When the residents aren’t traveling, they’re celebrating their independence at home. On July 4, program coordinators Naomi Pariona (first picture, left) and Daniel Borges (first picture, right) planned an Independence Day extravaganza.
Check out the July 4 Highlights
Upcoming Dates:
![September 15 - 30th Annual Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament. [Posted for Gabriel Homes' monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, July 2025 edition] Secure your spot before it's too late! Click this image to register.](https://www.gabrielhomes.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/2025.07-upcoming-dates-1024x379.png)
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:
The Treehouse: July 2025 Newsletter August 1, 2025 Read More
Special Olympics Softball in Loudoun: Rich’s Risky Move Pays Off July 31, 2025 Read More
Spontaneous Thinking Sparks the Best Events July 29, 2025 Read More
Patrick’s Family Reunion in South Carolina July 23, 2025 Read More
Camp Jaycee Shines Over Our Residents’ Summers July 17, 2025 Read More
Living on the Beach: Joe’s Sunny Vacations in South Carolina and Delaware July 9, 2025 Read More
Residents Celebrate Independence on July 4, 2025 July 7, 2025 Read More
The Treehouse: July 2025 Newsletter July 7, 2025 Read More
Lucy: A Beacon of Independence at Gabriel Homes July 4, 2025 Read More
Five Ways Financial Independence Can Empower Adults With IDD July 2, 2025 Read More
Registration Opens for Gabriel Homes 30th Annual Golf Tournament July 1, 2025 Read More
Ruth Cook Announces Retirement from Gabriel Homes June 30, 2025 Read More
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TRADE ALERT!
After years of playing Special Olympics softball with the Fairfax Cougars, Rich agreed to a trade to play for the Loudoun Rangers. The Gabriel Homes resident’s move was a surprise given his ties to his longtime friend and former coach.
Rich was happy to make the move when Rangers coach Tom Knight showed the athlete his vision for hitting and fielding. The Rangers traveled to tournaments across Virginia, and the season culminated in winning gold medals at the Virginia Moose Association Softball Tournament in Lynchburg. Rich manufactured several outs at first base and was responsible for a double play during the Rangers’ tournament run.
“Winning the tournament was a team effort,” Rich said. “We didn’t think victory was possible – the weather was so hot! But we locked in on the games and won.” 
Rich Gabriel Homes Resident; First Baseman, Loudoun Rangers
As soon as the season started, the trade paid off in spades for the Rangers.
They dominated an April ballgame against the Fairfax Supernovas 15-7. Many of the season’s later wins became nail-biters, including 5-3 and 8-7 results. The regular season ended with the Rangers going 4-2-1; the last game was a 10-10 tie.
https://www.gabrielhomes.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/2025.07-rd-special-olympics-softball7-2.mp4
Tournament of Champions:
When they traveled to tournaments, the Rangers won big. One match saw the Rangers’ best result of the season when they won 15-2. Rich’s favorite game this season was the Moose Tournament finals, where the Rangers dominated in a 10-2 contest. After the final inning, the Rangers jumped and celebrated as they received their medals and took photos at home plate. Coach Tom thanked all the support from local organizations that volunteered their time to the athletes alongside the coaches.
“I try to have good relationships with the players, families, and everyone around our team. Coaches should be upfront and honest, which breeds mutual respect for the players. Most of all, we care about our athletes having fun when they compete.”
Loudoun Rangers Coach Tom Knight
This summer, we also saw more Gabriel Homes champions during Special Olympics powerlifting!
Everyone who competed walked away with medals in every category. See how every powerlifter placed at gabrielhomes.org/stories. See the Results
More sports at Gabriel Homes:
Special Olympics Softball in Loudoun: Rich’s Risky Move Pays Off July 29, 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
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
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Some say the best things in life are free.
Things can get even better when you can enjoy them with your friends and community!
Reston has countless adventures on weeknights and weekends.
Karen Adams, a residential counselor at Gabriel Homes, finds free or low-cost events for residents by spotting posters or online ads. The residents are quick to leave home for Karen’s spontaneous events because they love being a part of their community.
“Sometimes I’m driving around and see posters for the carnival or free movie nights. I take pictures of posters or find the events online, and I ask the program coordinator if we can go out for the day.”
Karen Adams
When the summer heat is in full force, she takes the residents to the water park; everyone loves relaxing on the lazy river. Karen’s family often holds cookouts at the same time of year, and many residents tag along for barbecue.
“When Karen takes us out for events, I feel good that I’m being independent. One night in the fall, Karen took John and me to look at Halloween decorations. We saw lots of cool costumes and met amazing families from Reston.” 
Rich Gabriel Homes Resident https://www.gabrielhomes.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/gp-2025.07.25-water-park-trip1.mp4
Spontaneous events in Reston are everywhere.
During the week, Karen plans spontaneous dinner or dessert trips. She often suggests new places or events to try, and the residents enjoy trying different foods around town. Although Karen offers the ideas, the residents have the final say on where to go.
“I never choose where we’re going on behalf of the residents,” Karen says. “If everyone wants to go out for dinner, I give them options and let them decide.”
Karen Adams
Some residents said Karen’s trip to MooThru in July was one of their favorites to date. The group was happy using their hard-earned money to customize tasty orders. Because the outing took place on a Sunday evening, it gave everyone a chance to unwind ahead of the work week.
“I got cookies and cream ice cream with chocolate syrup and rainbow sprinkles at MooThru,” says Sean, a resident at Gabriel Homes. “I have a good time whenever I go out with my housemates, and Karen makes every event fun.” 
Sean Gabriel Homes Resident
This summer, residents are celebrating summer in Reston and throughout the East Coast!
Catch up on all the Gabriel Homes events at gabrielhomes.org/stories. See the latest from our residents
Other recent days in the life at Gabriel Homes:
Spontaneous Thinking Sparks the Best Events July 28, 2025 Read More
Lucy: A Beacon of Independence at Gabriel Homes July 4, 2025 Read More
Five Ways Financial Independence Can Empower Adults With IDD July 2, 2025 Read More