As 2025 comes to a close, many of us reflect on what we’ve accomplished and what has brought us joy.
December is known for bringing a wave of nostalgia as we reflect on our growth.
One of the best years to date.
Angie (left), a resident at Gabriel Homes, fondly looks back on the past 11 months, marking 2025 as one of her favorite and best years to date. Working at ECHO in Leesburg, Angie continues to impress her peers. Her supervisors specifically praise her for her attention to detail when washing dishes.
“I’ve been filling in for coworkers when they’ve been busy, and they appreciate the extra hands. Sometimes, bosses directly ask me for help, so I’m proud to be someone they can trust.”
Angie
At home, Angie has been a leader in doing housework.
She’s quick to clean after she eats and to take out the garbage before trash day. Her favorite meal she’s cooked this year has been the classic grilled cheese with tomato soup.
“Angie makes the home happier when she’s home. Sometimes when she has harder days, I try to be the one who cheers her up!”
Chris
Gabriel Homes Resident, Angie’s Housemate
Sundays have been Angie’s favorite day of the week this year.
She spends each week with friends at Saint John Neumann Catholic Church for Mass. Angie especially looks forward to the Adaptive Religious Education (ARE) program, led by her friends George Dellagiarino and Chris Brasco. ARE meets every two weeks to teach Gospel lessons and discuss their meanings with participants who have disabilities. Angie jokes she also loves the coffee at ARE sessions.
“Lately, we’ve talked about the feeding miracle, where Jesus fed lots of people with bread and fish.I’ve known George and Chris for quite a while. They’re nice and funny, and they make me proud to be Catholic.”
Angie
Following 2025 as one of the best years to date:
Looking forward to 2026, Angie is excited to go out more and spend more time with her friends. She loves mingling with friends during pancake breakfasts at church and in their community, and she’s proud of being more social and active.
“Angie’s going out much more with friends and suggesting new places to visit,” says Naomi Pariona, a program coordinator at Gabriel Homes. “More than ever, she’s taking charge with her choices and taking pride in her independence.”
Naomi Pariona
Program Coordinator, Gabriel Homes
Gabriel Homes was founded on a then-radical idea that adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, like Angie, could live independently.
Learn how our mission and vision become reality at gabrielhomes.org.
Learn MoreMore resident spotlights:
Why 2025 Was One of Angie’s Best Years to Date December 1, 2025 Read More Route 7 Brewing Caters Thanksgiving Dinner November 27, 2025 Read More Residents Celebrate Veterans Day in Washington, DC November 25, 2025 Read More Every Day Is Christmas at Gabriel Homes November 13, 2025 Read More Residents Give Back at Knights of Columbus in Reston November 3, 2025 Read More 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 dddcd
Route 7 Brewing donated and catered an early Thanksgiving dinner for the residents of Gabriel Homes.
Celebrating the residents’ independence, Route 7 Brewing was proud to give back to its community with Thanksgiving in support of Gabriel Homes’ mission.
Executive director Lynn Davis (right) is friends with the owners, at Route 7.
“Ambar reached out to me about catering our Thanksgiving meal. He and I have spoken about Gabriel Homes and he was very interested to get involved.”
Lynn Davis, Executive Director, Gabriel Homes
“Meeting and catering for the residents of Gabriel Homes was such a heartfelt honor for all of us at Route 7 Brewing. Sharing food, conversation, and genuine connection reminded us why we love serving our community. We left feeling grateful, inspired, and deeply humbled by the warmth we experienced.”
Ambar
The two owners and the head chef all stayed to meet the residents and serve the feast.
Hugs and chatter filled the home once everyone arrived: residents checking in with each other, asking how work was going, and seeing what’s new in their lives. January, for instance, gushed over how excited she was for her job’s holiday party. Stephen spoke about how excited he was to see his brother in Florida for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
“I’m off work for the next couple of weeks, so relaxing is the only thing on my mind. Same as Stephen, I’m seeing some family in Florida for Thanksgiving. I’m excited to get out of the cold and into 80-degree weather.” 
Rich D. Gabriel Homes Resident
When the residents saw the spread, their eyes lit up.
Everyone took a bit of everything as they went through the catering. Sam and Sean said they were thankful for turkey this season. Other residents like Gabe and Caryn excitedly loaded their plates with turkey as well.
“Thanksgiving food is always tasty, but this year’s dinner was especially delicious! This year, I’m thankful for beauty, peace, and comfort in the world. The holidays are a good time to celebrate those things.”
Sara, Gabriel Homes Resident
The residents’ bellies may have been full, but their hearts were fuller from being together. At the end of the night, longtime friend Bill Partlow brought his guitar and led one of his famous song sessions for all the residents. Shelby, known for her powerful alto voice, kept the residents on rhythm with maracas singing alongside Bill.
“I’m thankful for all my friends at Gabriel Homes. The food and songs remind me that we’re all family.” 
Chris Gabriel Homes Resident
This Thanksgiving, many residents felt especially thankful for their families.
See how residents’ parents celebrate their milestones in independence at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Learn from our residents’ parents
More spotlights at Gabriel Homes:
Route 7 Brewing Caters Thanksgiving Dinner November 25, 2025 Read More
Residents Celebrate Veterans Day in Washington, DC November 25, 2025 Read More
Every Day Is Christmas at Gabriel Homes November 13, 2025 Read More
Residents Give Back at Knights of Columbus in Reston November 3, 2025 Read More
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
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At Gabriel Homes, community means sharing experiences and creating memories together.
Holidays often spark ideas for exploring and enjoying life beyond home.
A Day in the District
In celebration of Veterans Day, several Gabriel Homes residents visited Washington, DC. Rich, Sam, Stephen, and Sean, (left to second-to-right) were in awe of some of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Since they had the day off work on November 11, the group felt getting some fresh air at the nation’s capital was far better than lounging around at home.
Gabriel Homes program coordinator Daniel Borges (left), who led the trip, said some residents hadn’t been to the district in years. Unlike recent trips to Harper’s Ferry and Shenandoah National Park, the capital is much closer to Reston. Many of our residents’ neighbors work in DC, so the Veterans Day visit helped them connect where their community is shaped.
“D.C. is much bigger than Reston, so we went through and saw lots of landmarks quickly. You can’t find another place in the world like our nation’s capital!”
Stephen, Gabriel Homes Resident
The group first stopped at the United States Capitol and found the perfect central spot for a photo in front of it. Everyone then made their way to the Washington Monument, followed by the Lincoln Memorial and its reflecting pool, and lastly to the World War II Memorial.
“The Washington Monument was my favorite stop because I like how it looks like a pencil! There were tons of flags around the monument in memory of those who served our country. I felt patriotic seeing them.” 
Rich Gabriel Homes Resident 
Wrapping up Veterans Day in D.C.
While the residents would’ve loved to keep visiting sites, the weather got colder during one of the windiest days of the year. The group is already looking forward to a future trip where the weather’s warmer and they can see even more sights.
“D.C. was so cold, and I forgot my gloves and hat!” said Sam. “But the car ride was easy, and I was happy to be out with my friends. Daniel did a great job taking us out.”
This year, some of our residents have taken trips all over the country.
See recent adventures to the American Southwest, New Jersey, South Carolina, and more at gabrielhomes.org/stories. See more stories at Gabriel Homes
More spotlights at Gabriel Homes:
Residents Celebrate Veterans Day in Washington, DC November 25, 2025 Read More
Route 7 Brewing Caters Thanksgiving Dinner November 21, 2025 Read More
Every Day Is Christmas at Gabriel Homes November 13, 2025 Read More
Residents Give Back at Knights of Columbus in Reston November 3, 2025 Read More
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
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Why can’t every day be Christmas?
For some, the season of giving isn’t limited to December. Christmas can also be a source of comfort and connection all year long. At Gabriel Homes, the holiday spirit continues through the passions of our residents.
The Season of Joy
The season of joy lasts all year with John, a resident at Gabriel Homes. John has an extensive collection of Christmas CDs that fills his room with holiday spirit. When his local library carried CDs, John would check out a rotation of different Christmas albums on Sundays. The library stopped carrying CDs when music streaming became more popular, so John started renting Christmas DVDs.
“Christmas is playing 365 days a year with John. When we’re in the car, we’re almost always playing Christmas music and singing along.”
Mark (second photo, right), John’s Dad
John’s favorite type of Christmas music is slow and soothing.
His favorite artist is Nat King Cole, a jazz pianist and R&B singer whose voice NPR calls “liquid, smooth.” Cole’s best-selling “The Magic of Christmas” album sets the cozy mood and gets the most airtime on John’s music player.
“Nat’s voice is relaxing, and the music is timeless,” John says. “I listen to his music over and over. The Christmas album makes my good days better and my tough days easier.”
Celebrating Christmas at the Gabriel Homes Boo Bash
At the 2nd Annual Boo Bash, John brought holiday cheer to the party when he sang “The First Noel” for karaoke. The Christmas joy spread after John’s performance: Sam, another resident, jumped in to sing “Deck the Halls.”
“John’s Christmas spirit is contagious! He loves playing Christmas songs for everyone, and the music brings a cheerful, festive energy throughout the whole home.” 
Kassi Fretty Program Coordinator, Gabriel Homes
Residents at Gabriel Homes decorate their homes for Christmas after Thanksgiving.
See photos of last year’s themed displays at gabrielhomes.org/stories. See Gabriel Homes celebrating Christmas
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The November 2025 edition of Gabriel Homes’ monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, spotlights service from our residents and community.
Learn about the history of house projects with the Gabriel Homes Work Crew, find out how Rich and Dave take part in giving back to their community with the Knights of Columbus, and see how we made full use of Dranesville United Methodist Church’s space for the 2nd Annual Boo Bash! Check out all these stories and more by looking below at our November 2025 edition of our monthly newsletter, The Treehouse.
The Latest:
Residents Shine at 2nd Annual Boo Bash
This year's Halloween party was the biggest and best to date! Residents showed off their costumes, won prizes, and danced the night away. And let’s not forget the highlight of the night: karaoke!
Thank you to Dranesville UMC for lending the space to Gabriel Homes.
See photos of residents in their costumes and check out what they sang at gabrielhomes.org.
Learn more about the 2nd Annual Boo Bash
Gabriel Homes Work Crew Turns Skills Into Service
Former board chair Mike Holupka wanted to use his trades experience at The Anderson Company to keep our homes in the best shape possible. A group of friends joined Mike and formed the Gabriel Homes Work Crew (GHWC). The crew has worked on projects for our residents like painting, landscaping, and redecorating.
See the GHWC in action
Follow us on social media for weekly updates:
Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter Threads Link
Special Olympics Soccer Is a Calling for Athletes
Sean, a resident at Gabriel Homes, has competed in Special Olympics soccer since 1997. His coach, Marc Egan, focuses on building one-on-one relationships with his players.
Some athletes call soccer their passion, while others see Special Olympics soccer as a chance to push for more inclusion for adults with IDD.
See how sports can be a movement
Residents Give Back at Knights of Columbus
The Knights hold monthly pancake breakfasts at Saint John Neumann Catholic Church to raise money for causes such as Gabriel Homes. Residents like Dave (pictured below, right) and Rich (first photo) are in leadership positions and take part in community service for the Knights.
“As warden, I protect the council’s property and help set up meetings.” 
Dave Gabriel Homes Resident
Learn about our residents’ responsibilities as leaders
Residents Visit Harper’s Ferry and Shenandoah National Park
On two quiet days, a few residents at Gabriel Homes took impromptu day trips to Harper’s Ferry and Shenandoah National Park. At Harper’s Ferry, several residents saw breathtaking views and visited historic shops; in Shenandoah, another group walked trails and enjoyed the peaceful outdoors.
“Getting out and seeing the Shenandoah Mountains was a great time.” 
Stephen (left) Gabriel Homes Resident
See photos from our latest adventures
Board Spotlight
Gary Le Francois
With 40+ years in in commercial real estate property management, Gary has helped companies operate more efficiently. Today, he takes his trade skills to improve our residents' home and their quality of life.
Learn about Gary’s pride in his work
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:
The Treehouse: November 2025 Newsletter November 4, 2025 Read More
Residents Give Back at Knights of Columbus in Reston November 3, 2025 Read More
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
Gabriel Homes Work Crew Turns Skills Into Service October 20, 2025 Read More
Gary Le Francois: Why I Do House Projects for Gabriel Homes October 9, 2025 Read More
The Treehouse: October 2025 Newsletter October 6, 2025 Read More
Angela Rivera Wins DSPY Advocacy Award October 3, 2025 Read More
Daniel Borges Finishes Under an Hour at Marine Corps 12K in Quantico October 2, 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
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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
