Strong communities grow from the people who shape them.
The heart of Saint John Neumann Catholic Church (SJN) in Reston is its members, and those from Gabriel Homes bring energy and commitment to the parish. Some residents give back to their communities and form lifelong bonds through the Knights of Columbus.
Residents Giving Back at the Knights of Columbus
The Family of Man council, the chapter that hosts the members from SJN, holds monthly pancake breakfasts to raise money for causes that reflect the Knights’ values of unity. Rich and Chris (first and second photos respectively), two brother Knights at Gabriel Homes, help serve meals to congregants before Masses. Gabriel Homes has previously been the recipient of donations from breakfasts, and staff have had the chance to speak about the nonprofit’s mission to the congregation.
“The pancake breakfasts build community among the Knights and the parish as a whole. All the Gabriel Homes residents who go to SJN participate in and socialize at every breakfast. The funds raised from the meals allow us to assist those in need in our community, and our residents play an important role in bringing SJN together.”
Michael Swiger, Former Chapter Financial Secretary
Dave, another resident at Gabriel Homes, sits on the council as a warden.
The council’s property, like its charter, falls under his watch. Dave (right) also organizes council business meetings and oversees guards like Rich, who check membership cards and serve as security.
“As a leader of the Reston Knights of Columbus, I try to teach as much as possible to the new members. I explain the history of the Knights and what responsibilities are to new brothers, and I help make them comfortable when they go out to our socials.”
Dave, Gabriel Homes Resident
The Knights’ support for Gabriel Homes goes beyond the dollar amount.
In 2024, a group of Knights volunteered one Saturday to help refresh some of the homes. Brothers bagged leaves, weeded flower beds, trimmed shrubbery, and painted one home’s living room and bathroom.
“The guys did a great job touching up our home. Dave and I were in shock when we saw the fresh coat of paint.” 
Rich Gabriel Homes Resident
Whether you belong to a service group or are looking for to serve your community, Gabriel Homes makes it easy for you to get involved.
Check out all the ways you can make a difference for adults with IDD at gabrielhomes.org. Get Involved With Gabriel Homes
More stories on our homes:
Residents Give Back at Knights of Columbus in Reston October 30, 2025 Read More
Gabriel Homes Work Crew Turns Skills Into Service October 20, 2025 Read More
Gary Le Francois: Why I Do House Projects in Reston and Herndon October 9, 2025 Read More
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
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The spirit of Halloween came alive once again at Gabriel Homes’ 2nd Annual Boo Bash.
Held in October, the party featured all the frightening festive flair residents come to love. Staff, volunteers, and friends came together for an evening to celebrate our residents and the magic of Halloween.
Residents arrived at the Boo Bash dressed to impress.
Creative costumes dazzled in front of the spooky background in paparazzi photos. Caryn rolled in as a green M&M, while Kari arrived as a devil. Chris dressed as the king of the party, and John arrived as a Bean Bag.
“The Boo Bash was a great reason to get dressed up as one of my favorite characters, Minnie Mouse. I matched with Patrick, who wore Minnie sunglasses with his traffic cone costume!”
Darcy
Gabriel Homes Resident
Before taking their seats, competition was high as residents took off their masks to show their game faces. Staff brought competition to the Boo Bash with a tricky bean bag toss. Similar to corn hole, residents used bean bags to toss into the jack-o-lantern face of a pumpkin cut out of wood to win candy prizes. While some residents took several attempts to get the bag in, Shelby was the champion of the night by sinking it with her first toss.
“The bean bag toss was hard because the holes were so small. I might’ve worn out my arm throwing the bags so many times.”
January
Gabriel Homes Resident
The contests worked up everyone’s appetites in time for dinner.
Everyone enjoyed classic subs, salad, and chips; a batch of vanilla, chocolate, and red velvet cupcakes made by executive director Lynn Davis followed for dessert.
Energy filled the room after eating.
As soon as karaoke started, residents flocked to perform their favorite songs.
Some sang solos while others performed as duos, and all singers received roaring rounds of applause from their friends.
Residents Sang:
- January - “Thriller”
- Joe - “Ghostbusters” and “She’s a Lady”
- Sean - “Someday My Prince Will Come”
- Rich D. - “Billie Jean”
- Shelby - “Sunshine on My Shoulders”
- Caryn - “Country Roads”
- Chris - “Rocky Mountain High”
- Sara - “I Put a Spell on You”
- John - “The First Noel”
- Sam - “Deck the Halls”
“I’m running to be next in line when I have a song idea. I love the movie ‘Hocus Pocus,’ so karaoke was like putting on a spell on the room the way Bette Midler does in the movie.”
Sara, Gabriel Homes Resident
After the last song, residents were on the edge of their seats waiting for the winners of the costume contest.
Program coordinator Naomi Pariona slowly revealed the winners:
- Best Costume - Rich R. as an Army serviceman
- Funniest Costume - Sara as a skeleton
- Most Creative Costume - Residential Counselor Kaitlyn Kelly as Princess Fiona
- Cutest Costume - Gabe as Super Mario
- Scariest Costume - Rich D. as a werewolf
- Couple’s Costume - Lynn and Tom Davis as Average Joe’s dodgeballers
Gabe
Gabriel Homes Resident
This year’s Halloween celebration was the second major party Gabriel Homes hosted for the residents.
Check out pictures from the Spring Fling held in April at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Check Out the Spring FlingMore Resident Spotlights at Gabriel Homes:
Gabriel Homes Residents Shine at 2nd Annual Boo Bash October 28, 2025 Read More Residents Catch Sights of the Shenandoah River and Mountains October 27, 2025 Read More Special Olympics Soccer Is a Calling for Athletes October 22, 2025 Read More Special Olympics Softball in Loudoun: Rich’s Risky Move Pays Off July 31, 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 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 Four Residents Celebrate 30 Years Living at Gabriel Homes June 24, 2025 Read More Community Corner: Adults With IDD Go the Extra Mile in Independence June 12, 2025 Read More dddcd
When you’re bored at home, free or low-cost trips to somewhere new might be the breath of fresh air you need.
Changes in scenery can help you feel more connected to the world around you, and you may be inspired to visit new places.
Sights at the Shenandoah River & Mountain
On two quiet days, a few residents at Gabriel Homes took impromptu day trips to catch some sights at two famous areas centered around the Shenandoah River and Mountains. Daniel Borges (back, second from the right), a program coordinator at Gabriel Homes, wanted to share his love of Harper’s Ferry in August after visiting it in his own time. The group later caught some fresh air at Shenandoah National Park on their day off.
“Within the first hour of both shifts, I knew the days needed something special. The residents and I couldn’t sit around! Since both sights are only a little over an hour away, Harper’s Ferry and Shenandoah felt like perfect trips.”
Daniel Borges
Program Coordinator, Gabriel Homes
Harper’s Ferry, famous for the 1859 armory raid led by slavery abolitionist John Brown, rests where the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers meet. The day in town kicked off with a picnic near the visitor center. Residents hopped on the bus that traveled into the historical district. The group took in the views from the point where the rivers met, went into a few of the gift shops, and walked down some of the town’s historic streets. Local ice cream was the day’s cherry on top before everyone headed home in the evening.
“I was tired by the time we left because we saw so much in town. Seeing the rivers was my favorite part of the day. The weather was nice and warm, and watching the two rivers coming together was cool.”
Sean
Gabriel Homes Resident
Sights at Shenandoah National Park
After the success of the Harper’s Ferry outing, a smaller group set out again for sights at Shenandoah National Park. Fog covered the trails early in the day, but it didn’t stop the residents from breathing in fresh air and enjoying the quiet. As the group left the park, the skies cleared, and everyone finally enjoyed the vast Shenandoah scenery.
“Getting out and seeing the Shenandoah Mountains was a great time. I wish we could’ve seen more since the weather was so foggy. We’ll have to make another trip soon!”
Stephen
Gabriel Homes Resident
On the way home, the group stopped at The Apple House, a shop in the Shenandoah Valley known for its apple cider donuts. Ordering half a dozen donuts, Daniel and the group agreed they were as good as advertised.
“My chocolate donut was delicious. I was glad to go out, take a walk somewhere different, and eat with my friends. Daniel did a great job planning the trip for us.”
Lucy
Gabriel Homes Resident
The August 2025 edition of our monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, covers many of our residents’ summer adventures.
Catch up on highlights at Gabriel Homes at gabrielhomes.org/stories.
See Pictures From Residents’ AdventuresMore news at Gabriel Homes:
The Treehouse: October 2025 Newsletter October 6, 2025 Read More Angela Rivera Wins DSPY Advocacy Award October 3, 2025 Read More Powerlifters “Pull” off the Impossible at the 2025 Dulles Plane Pull September 25, 2025 Read More 30th Annual Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament Delivers Championship Numbers September 17, 2025 Read More The Treehouse: September 2025 Newsletter September 10, 2025 Read More The Treehouse: August 2025 Newsletter August 6, 2025 Read More The Treehouse: July 2025 Newsletter July 7, 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 Gabriel Homes Residents Dominate Special Olympics States Powerlifting Tournament Results June 20, 2025 Read More The Treehouse: June 2025 Newsletter June 2, 2025 Read More The Treehouse: May 2025 Newsletter May 5, 2025 Read More dddcd
When the first Special Olympics were held in 1968, over 1,000 athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) showed the world that they could compete in and find community through sports.
Today, Special Olympics has become a movement that celebrates the camaraderie among athletes, coaches, families, and volunteers.
Sean, a resident at Gabriel Homes, has competed in Special Olympics soccer since 1997.
His coach, Marc Egan (first photo, left), focuses on building one-on-one relationships with his players and helps each player shine in their best position. Sean’s athleticism, combined with Marc’s coaching style, has led to several key victories for their team this season.
“I play in the midfield and score several goals each year. Scoring feels great! I’m much better at soccer today thanks to great coaches like Marc.”
Sean, Gabriel Homes Resident
Special Olympics soccer can be an outlet for athletes who crave competition. Amber (first photo, right), one of Sean’s teammates, has played soccer for over 30 years. As a former travel player, Amber has a keen eye for the goal and plays forward.
“Soccer is my passion. Compared to travel, Special Olympics is such a kind place. It lets me meet people with great sportsmanship, and I can do what I love most, competing. I recently scored five goals in two games!”
Amber, Special Olympics Athlete
The same love of sports runs deep in families like Marc’s.
His brother David’s (front) first sport was Special Olympics swimming before picking up softball and soccer. Since Marc took over coaching from his dad, David holds his brother accountable for letting everyone play.
“This season of Special Olympics is one of change,” David says. “Sports like Special Olympics soccer show the magic of the athletes and the beauty of sports.”
Special Olympics leagues are growing rapidly worldwide.
In Virginia, Sean’s powerlifting league went on pause in 2020 due to COVID, but he returned to becoming a perennial state champion against tougher competition. David sees this period of expansion for Special Olympics as a key moment to push for more inclusion for people with IDD.
“The outreach by Special Olympics and support from families are overwhelming. Special Olympics proves that adults with IDD deserve the same opportunities. Let’s get more athletes out there and give them an equal playing field.”
David Egan, Special Olympics Athlete
Special Olympics is one of many ways you can volunteer your time with adults with IDD and Gabriel Homes.
Learn about all the ways you can get involved at gabrielhomes.org. Click Here
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When you’re with a group of friends, you’re more likely to give back.
A growing trend, group volunteering, is reshaping community service. Volunteering with friends or family can bring people closer and make a bigger impact as a group.
The Beginning of the Gabriel Homes Work Crew
Mike Holupka, former chair of the Gabriel Homes board of directors, wanted to use his trades experience at The Anderson Company to help our residents feel more comfortable in their homes. A group of Mike’s retired friends agreed: spending one day a month working on home upkeep together was a fun way to stay active and give back to their community. From there, the Gabriel Homes Work Crew (GHWC) was born.
“We do everything from painting indoors and landscaping outdoors to putting up Christmas decorations. Some of us had electric or plumbing skills, but we were mostly guys who showed up and did whatever needed doing.”
Mickey Femino, Member of the GHWC
Indoors:
At Gabriel Homes, residents decorate their rooms to match their styles. The GHWC is there to help rearrange when their interests change, which sometimes comes with a fresh coat of paint. Two ladies wanted their rooms painted a lavender color. At another home, one resident, a passionate Washington Commanders fan, wanted their bedroom painted burgundy and gold. Once they caught wind of the requests, the GHWC painted the rooms light purple and team colors respectively from wall to wall.
“The Commanders room looked like a hangout space when we were done painting. Covering the walls in burgundy and gold took all day, and the resident loved it as soon as they walked into the room. All the hard work was worth it seeing their reaction to the room.”
Dave Derr, Member of the GHWC
Outdoors:
Mulch days are infamous among the GHWC. Hauling heavy wheelbarrows of mulch and spreading them around the yard can be physically taxing for a group of 70-somethings, some crew members joke. The crew meets at the crack of dawn with coffee and donuts, and they start by picking up sticks and other debris. The Anderson Company lends a truck with a dozen cubic yards of mulch, and the guys wheelbarrow, dump, and rake everything into place.
At the same time, other GHWC members clear the yard with leaf blowers and tidy the shrubbery with trimmers. Trees, plants, and flowers around have the same care to keep the homes vibrant and welcoming year-round. Giving the same TLC to all six homes, the gents wrap up mulch day feeling exhausted but proud of what they accomplished together.
“At one home, the backyard was swampy because water shot up when it rained. The ground shook when you walked on it! We worked with The Anderson Company to install a drain field in the backyard. Together, the Anderson team dug ditches and installed PVC drains, and the crew laid gravel for a solid base beneath the residents’ feet. The residents started throwing the football more and added a garden in their redone yard.”
Jack Mannion
GHWC and Board Member
The Holidays:
In late fall, on a day when the crew clears the sticks and leaves, the GHWC installs the outdoor Christmas lights. The group drapes the lights on the bushes and trees, and each home shines with spirit during the season of giving. In recent years, the residents have been saving the GHWC some indoor labor by decorating their own Christmas trees with lights and ornaments.
“Before leaving the homes for the day, I look at the lights for a second. I feel a sense of pride that they look good and I’m doing it for good people. The residents teach me about independence and responsibility, and they’re better at those things than most!”
Dave Derr
If you’re passionate about helping your neighbors...
... you can support Gabriel Homes by volunteering for house projects! Your talents can help create more welcoming, comfortable homes for adults with IDD. Contact us today to get started on your first project. Contact Gabriel Homes dddcd
Why I Love What I Do
Hands-on house projects for Gabriel Homes (GHI) in Herndon and Reston are deeply personal in a way that’s hard to describe unless you’ve been there. With over 40 years of experience working on commercial real estate property management, I helped companies operate more efficiently and improved the spaces where businesses sealed the deal. But at GHI, you’re not just fixing a wall or painting a room. You’re improving someone’s home, their quality of life.
History of House Projects in Herndon and Reston
Every project has a face and a story behind it. You walk into our homes and know that residents with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) benefit directly from your work.
Every hammer swing carries a sense of purpose because you know your effort makes a real difference.
I took pride in my professionalism and precision for commercial projects.
Staying on schedule, on budget, and within spec was satisfying in a technical sense. But at GHI, projects go beyond the numbers. The mission is driven by heart. When you don’t show up, a project might get delayed for someone who’s been waiting for something as simple as a functioning bathroom.
Our goal is to keep these homes safe, comfortable, and dignified.
Through September, I’ve volunteered over 250 hours helping with renovations and maintenance this year. The most I’ve volunteered in recent memory was in 2023, with 551 hours.
What keeps me coming back to Gabriel Homes for hundreds of hours each year?
It’s my son Sam (right), his housemates, and all the residents across all the homes. Seeing their faces light up when a project is completed or when they say thank you gives me all the motivation I need.
Volunteering for GHI, doing house projects across Herndon and Reston, gives me a sense of fulfillment no paycheck can match. The work brings my skills, time, and values together. Since I retired from Transwestern in 2018, it became my time to give back. I plan to keep showing up for Sam and Gabriel Homes as long as I am able to do the work and make a difference.
See the latest board spotlights at Gabriel Homes:
Gary Le Francois: Why I Do House Projects in Reston and Herndon October 3, 2025 Read More
Kendall Heren: How Volunteering at Special Olympics Changed My Career Path October 1, 2025 Read More
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 5, 2025 Read More
Shalini Kapur: Friendships Made Serving on the Board of Directors September 2, 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
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
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In the October 2025 edition of our newsletter, The Treehouse, we’re lacing up for victory.
Catch up on our biggest golf tournament to date, watch our powerlifting residents combine their strength by working together, and learn how Special Olympics has been a defining part of our board members’ lives. Check out all these stories and more by reading below in the October 2025 edition of our monthly newsletter, The Treehouse.
The Latest:
30th Annual Golf Tournament Delivers Championship Numbers
Our annual flagship event celebrating our residents and community delivered historic numbers. Gabriel Homes is proud to announce that the 30th Annual Golf Tournament raised over $78,000 and had 118 golfers.
See all photos from the tournament and get a full recap of the day at gabrielhomes.org.
Click here for the golf tournament recap
Follow us on social media for weekly updates:
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Special Olympics Powerlifters Pull off the Impossible at Dulles Airport
When our powerlifting residents aren’t competing in tournaments, they’re preparing to move a heavy-duty aircraft as a team at the 2025 Dulles Plane Pull.
“After we dropped the rope, we saw a huge crowd clapping for us. All of us were smiling the rest of the day.” 
Chris Gabriel Homes Resident and Special Olympics powerlifter
See how our powerlifters put their strength to the test at gabrielhomes.org.
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
Sarah Carwile
Through Special Olympics, Sarah learned how to support others in ways that encouraged independence and belonging. Her volunteering gained her experience in coordinating events and advocating for inclusive programming.
See how her refined skills, combined with her professional background in nonprofit auditing, applied directly to Gabriel Homes.
Check out Sarah’s Special Olympics story
Kendall Heren
One night at Special Olympics bowling changed Kendall Heren’s career path forever. Because of the warmth and acceptance she felt from the athletes, Kendall knew she wanted to make a difference in the lives of people with IDD and their families.
Learn more about Kendall’s love of Special Olympics and her advocacy for people with IDD at gabrielhomes.org.
See how one night changed everything for Kendall
Staff Spotlight:
Angela Rivera Wins DSPY Award for Advocacy
As a residential counselor, Angela (right) has championed the residents’ abilities to speak up for themselves and feel empowered. Her nomination rose to the top out of 32 submissions from local service providers like Gabriel Homes.
Learn more about how Angela is celebrated among Gabriel Homes staff and residents at gabrielhomes.org.
Meet Angela and learn about her DSPY win
Daniel Borges Runs a 12K in 59 Minutes
Outside of Gabriel Homes, program coordinator Daniel Borges (right) leans into his passion, fitness. He recently completed a 12K in Quantico in preparation for the Marine Corps Marathon later this month. Thankfully, Rich (left) was there to cheer Daniel’s every step.
I couldn’t let Rich Down.
Daniel Borges
Learn more about Daniel’s training & Rich’s support
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.
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Consider making a donation to Gabriel Homes today.
More stories you may have missed:
The Treehouse: October 2025 Newsletter October 2, 2025 Read More
Daniel Borges Finishes Under an Hour at Marine Corps 12K in Quantico October 2, 2025 Read More
Angela Rivera Wins DSPY Advocacy Award October 1, 2025 Read More
Kendall Heren: How Volunteering at Special Olympics Changed My Career Path October 1, 2025 Read More
Powerlifters “Pull” off the Impossible at the 2025 Dulles Plane Pull September 25, 2025 Read More
Sarah Carwile: How Special Olympics Impacts My Board Service September 19, 2025 Read More
30th Annual Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament Delivers Championship Numbers September 17, 2025 Read More
The Treehouse: September 2025 Newsletter September 10, 2025 Read More
Acting As a Fiduciary and Future Planning for Adults With IDD September 5, 2025 Read More
Shalini Kapur: Friendships Made Serving on the Board of Directors September 2, 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
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At the 3rd Annual Direct Support Professional of the Year (DSPY) Awards, Angela Rivera won the advocacy award for her support of our residents.
Her nomination rose to the top out of 32 DSPY award nominations from local service providers like Gabriel Homes. As a residential counselor, Angela has championed the residents’ abilities to speak up for themselves and feel empowered.
Angela (left) joined Gabriel Homes in 2024 to gain more experience while studying social work. She previously worked as a behavioral technician for kids with autism. When Angela joined Gabriel Homes, the residents welcomed her with open arms and trusted her to help them achieve their goals in independence.
“The DSPY award is a great honor because I never thought I would receive recognition for helping others. I am always motivated to work with the residents, so the award adds to the joy I feel every time I see them.”
Angela Rivera, Residential Counselor, Gabriel Homes
Angela was happy just to be nominated for the award. Her friend, fellow residential counselor Victor Guzman, joined her at the ceremony. Executive director Lynn Davis, whom Angela credits for her win, said that her smile turned into utter shock and joy when the advocacy award revealed her name. When Angela got up for her award, she immediately ran to hug her mentor.
“You could see her face beaming when she won. I’ve seen her grow since her time in the student council. Her DSPY win proves Angela has a bright future ahead.” 
Lynn Davis Executive Director, Gabriel Homes https://www.gabrielhomes.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2025.09-dspys-angela-rivera-video1.mp4 
Angela’s history of advocacy goes beyond Gabriel Homes.
In high school, she served as class president and was a leader in student engagement. She helped organize school events and spoke up for her classmates at school board meetings.
“Being a leader helped me better understand different people and communities,” Angela said. “I learned that I had a big heart for others and wanted to make them happy.”
Her willingness to challenge herself and make a difference carried over into her work at Gabriel Homes. Angela caught the staff’s attention early on for her ability to connect with the residents and address their needs. One resident, Rich (behind), looked back fondly on performing karaoke duets with her during the Boo Bash and Spring Fling. When nominations opened for the 3rd Annual DSPY Awards, Gabriel Homes’ leadership had no hesitation in nominating Angela for the advocacy award.
“Angela is kind and nice, and she’s a great listener when I tell her about my workdays. The world would be a better place if there were more Angelas.” 
Angie Gabriel Homes Resident 
Providers nominated direct support professionals who best represented each category’s prompt.
A diverse group of volunteers selected by the Northern Virginia Coalition of Providers reviewed submissions for the DSPY categories. The nominees’ 1,000-character submissions highlighted the aspects of their exceptional work as DSPs.
Gabriel Homes submitted the following nomination for Angela:
I enthusiastically nominate Angela for her tireless advocacy and remarkable ability to recognize and nurture the strengths of every resident. Her dedication is not just a duty but a passion. She says, “I always wanted to help others and speak up when their voices weren’t heard.” As a DSP, Angela is relentless in empowering residents to make positive and healthy choices. Among her teammates, she’s clear in her communication: Angela always ensures everyone is informed of any needs residents may have. She makes it a priority to ensure everyone receives the care they need.
One evening, a resident wasn’t confident speaking up for themselves. Noticing their shyness, Angela worked with the resident and became their coach. Through role play, the resident acted out scenarios where they could better advocate for themselves under Angela’s scenarios. The resident learned how to speak up politely, and they became more self-assured when voicing they had disagreements or uncertainties with others.
While Angela is achieving new heights in her career...
... one program coordinator at Gabriel Homes reached a personal milestone. See how Daniel Borges (left)ran a 12K in under an hour with support from Rich (right), a resident at Gabriel Homes, at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Learn More
More news stories at Gabriel Homes:
Angela Rivera Wins DSPY Advocacy Award October 1, 2025 Read More
Powerlifters “Pull” off the Impossible at the 2025 Dulles Plane Pull September 25, 2025 Read More
30th Annual Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament Delivers Championship Numbers September 17, 2025 Read More
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For advanced runners, the average finish times are three hours for marathons and 47 minutes for 10Ks.
Olympic marathoner Shane Flanagan recommends runners train four to five months before competitions.
When he’s not empowering our residents at Gabriel Homes, program coordinator Daniel Borges is at the gym or running,
Daniel ran in the Quantico 12K in August to prepare for the Marine Corps Marathon coming this October. When he crossed the finish line, his final time was 56 minutes and 9 seconds.
“I run at least seven kilometers a day during the week and around 22 on weekends. Running is like therapy to me. Trainings push me to get out of the home and achieve something bigger than myself.”
Daniel Borges
After months of training on sidewalks and road shoulders, Daniel stepped into a new challenge at the Marine Corps 12K in Quantico.
The path consisted of gravel and dirt, which felt strange under his feet. At one point during the run, Daniel felt a tiny twist in his ankle when he stepped on a rock. Thankfully, he was back to his usual running form after his short slowdown.
With the finish line in sight, Daniel spotted his #1 supporter. Rich (left), a resident at Gabriel Homes, waved at and cheered for Daniel during the race’s final stretch. Daniel said Rich was the push he needed to finish after over 50 minutes of grueling running.
Rich always asked about Daniel’s training progress and was excited to see him at the 12K.
Because he had family who served in the military, Rich was in awe of being at the base. His face lit up when they arrived, and he felt proud to be there for someone he cared about.
“I had such a nice time seeing Daniel run — I yelled as loud as I could when I saw him! Being at Quantico for the 12K and meeting all the Marines made me feel like a proud citizen.”
Rich
After the race, Daniel and Rich drove around the base and saw some of the barracks.
Rich ecstatically pointed at everything he saw. The guys finished their morning at Quantico by eating an early lunch on the base.
“Rich came to the 12K to support me first and foremost, and his care for others shows what a loving person he is,” Daniel said. “I knew I couldn’t let him down when I raced, so he was my motivation to keep training and finish in stride.”
Daniel wasn’t the only person at Gabriel Homes with athletic achievements in 2025.
Did you know Special Olympics powerlifters from Gabriel Homes pulled a plane in September? See how our residents combined their strength to move the aircraft at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Click Here
More sports news at Gabriel Homes:
Daniel Borges Finishes Under an Hour at Marine Corps 12K in Quantico September 30, 2025 Read More
Powerlifters “Pull” off the Impossible at the 2025 Dulles Plane Pull September 25, 2025 Read More
Sarah Carwile: How Special Olympics Impacts My Board Service September 19, 2025 Read More
Special Olympics Softball in Loudoun: Rich’s Risky Move Pays Off July 31, 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
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My Special Olympics story starts in a way that sounds cheesy at first...
...but I promise it’s absolutely true. Back in college, my sorority sisters kept telling me, “You have to volunteer at Special Olympics. It’ll change your life.” I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I decided to give volunteering a try one Thursday night with a group of sisters who went each week.
That evening, I walked into an alley packed with athletes and volunteers. The energy, joy, and kindness were overwhelming. The athletes didn’t know me, but they welcomed me with open arms. They were down-to-earth and full of life. The evening was my first night volunteering at the Special Olympics, and I suddenly found myself in a whole new type of environment. Most of my time at school was spent focusing on myself: seeking my goals, future, and growth. Volunteering for Special Olympics was refreshing because I could focus on others.
I stepped back halfway through the night, looked down all the lanes, and felt something shift within me.
That night was the start of a new chapter.
I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life empowering the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in any way I could.
The very next morning, I changed my major from business to human development; I later added psychology. I sought out internships in special education. My first opportunity was working with second graders with disabilities at a local elementary school. Then I worked with a young adult with Autism through Virginia Tech’s On Campus Transition Program. How my career would pan out after graduation, I wasn’t sure. One thing was for certain: I wanted to spend my life working with people with IDD.
And I never looked back.
Twelve years later in the professional field, I’ve had the privilege of working in countless spaces with people with IDD. Every experience has taught me something new, like the importance of advocacy, the value of inclusion, and the power of believing in others’ potential. My career goes beyond what I’ve learned; it’s been about connection.
I deeply believe in the abilities of people with IDD. My passion drives every professional and personal decision I make.
At KNH Advocacy
When I work with families on individualized education plan (IEP) packages, I’m always thinking:
- What will make this student feel seen?
- What will help them feel confident?
- How can I show them that I believe in them, so they can believe in themselves?
Volunteering at the Special Olympics did more than introduce me to a community. It gave me purpose and direction. Going to Special Olympics over 12 years ago was the launching point that inspired the work I do every single day. And I couldn’t be more grateful.
More board spotlights at Gabriel Homes:
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 5, 2025 Read More
Shalini Kapur: Friendships Made Serving on the Board of Directors September 2, 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
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