In a recent Special Olympics powerlifting tournament for the Virginia state championship...
... every Gabriel Homes resident who participated went home with medals. Residents competed in their respective weight classes in bench presses, deadlifts, and combinations; the latter is a mix of the former two.
Trainers like Tim Figueroa and Seth Abrams helped residents prepare for the tournament by meeting every Tuesday evening at IMP Fitness. At the gym, residents built their strength and learned proper lifting techniques.
“We didn’t settle for participation trophies this time around. The residents trained hard for this event. Seeing them accept their awards, all the trainers were smiling wide.” 
Tim Figueroa Trainer, Special Olympics Powerlifting
Photos from the competition:
Competing in their respective weight classes...
... the residents performed as follows:
- John: 1st place bench press, 2nd place deadlift and combination
- Patrick: 2nd place bench press and deadlift, 3rd place combination
- Sean: 1st place bench press and deadlift, 2nd place combination
- Joe: 1st place bench press, deadlift, and combination
- Chris: 2nd place bench press, deadlift, and combination
- Sam: 1st place bench press, 2nd place deadlift and combination
“I thought the tournament went very well. I had fun competing in all the different events, and it feels good to come out as a champion!” 
Joe Gabriel Homes Resident 
Leading up to the championship...
... residents trained to prepare for commands from Special Olympics officials. The commands in order are “lift,” “down,” “up,” and “rack.” Anybody who ignores the commands is disqualified, so the trainers worked to ensure the residents would hit their marks when they were called up to lift.
“John and I compete in the same weight class from time to time,” Chris said. “We like to push each other to our limits when we face each other, but he’s still one of my best friends at the end of the day.”
“I’m glad to see everything’s back on track. Nothing beats the feeling of seeing the residents' faces shine when they win. They smile from ear to ear.”
Tim, Special Olympics Powerlifting Trainer
With the next season of sports coming up soon...
... catch up on all the latest from Gabriel Homes, including the 2024 golf tournament! Register today at eventbrite.com.
The latest stories from Gabriel Homes
Gabriel Homes Residents Sweep Powerlifting States Competition July 22, 2024 Read More
Baseball Builds Beautiful Bonds July 22, 2024 Read More
Ladies’ Night Celebrates Asian Culture July 16, 2024 Read More
The Treehouse: July 2024 July 15, 2024 Read More
Community Corner: It’s An Annual Tradition! July 12, 2024 Read More
Legacies Last Generations at Gabriel Homes July 11, 2024 Read More
Home Runs Highlight Special Olympics Softball July 9, 2024 Read More
Announcement: Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament 2024 Registration is Now Live July 1, 2024 Read More
dddcdIf you’re looking for a rush of endorphins in your brain, you might want to head to your local stadium.
Studies show that watching live sports can make you feel happier and less lonely.
Let's Play Ball!
Gabe is a resident at Gabriel Homes whose eyes are glued to the TV during the Major League Baseball (MLB) season. Like other residents, Gabe and his family regularly travel to D.C. to watch his favorite team, the Washington Nationals.
“I started following the Nats when they became a team in 2005,” Gabe says. “One of my favorite memories was when they beat the Astros in 2019.”
Bob
Gabe's father
When the first pitch is underway...
Gabe’s focus is uninterrupted until the end of the game. He can list many players off the top of his head and knows how often they get on base. For example, Gabe says Lane Thomas and Jacob Young are good scorers but thinks Jesse Winkler is a better home run hitter.
Gabe doesn’t restrict himself to baseball, though –
– he and his family often watch other sports like hockey with the Washington Capitals and basketball with the George Mason University women’s team. When he was younger, Gabe played basketball and ran track in the Special Olympics.
“It’s fun when Gabe comes over and sees his sisters, nephews, and nieces before games,” Bob continues. “But he takes care of himself and is totally social without us.”
Sports play a major part in many of our residents’ lives!
Read about everyone’s favorite sports teams at gabrielhomes.org/stories.
Read MoreMore stories about our residents:
See the latest news from Gabriel Homes.
Gabriel Homes Residents Sweep Powerlifting States Competition July 25, 2024 Read More The Treehouse: July 2024 July 15, 2024 Read More Legacies Last Generations at Gabriel Homes July 11, 2024 Read More Home Runs Highlight Special Olympics Softball July 9, 2024 Read More Announcement: Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament 2024 Registration is Now Live July 1, 2024 Read More Gabriel Homes Celebrates 42nd Birthday! June 25, 2024 Read More Waiting for a Developmental Disability Waiver? Here’s the Process: June 25, 2024 Read More Dinosaurs, ABBA, and Snickers Cheesecake June 13, 2024 Read More dddcd
The continent of Asia is fast growing...
and the culture – although not shared by all – is vast and diverse. During a recent ladies’ night at Gabriel Homes, the residents celebrated an Asian cultural experience.
Staff and residents decorated the home with Asian-inspired visuals.
The centerpieces of the art direction were flowers. While some of the most recognizable flowers like peonies can take years to bloom, paper and felt versions took minutes for the residents to set.
Swirl streamers were the other main spectacle of the home.
Often looking like streamers you see in football stadiums, the swirls are based on auspicious (or lucky) clouds to show peace and happiness. Residents specifically liked the red and gold streamers, two colors that represent good fortune and prosperity, respectively.
“Ladies’ nights are much more fun when we can change how our homes look,” said January, a resident at Gabriel Homes. “We have new things to talk about, and we can finish with fun games.”
With the help of Residential Counselor Marlene Stevens as chef...
...the group wrapped up the night with a favorite dish: stir fry.
“Marlene's food always tastes great, so the night gets better when we can also learn something new,” said Darcy, another resident.
Have something you want to teach residents?
Looking to help us out with upcoming events? Learn about how you can get involved with Gabriel Homes today.
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The Latest...
Rich Hits Home Run, Fields Two Double Plays at Special Olympics Softball
Rich plays softball in the spring for the Special Olympics. Meeting on Saturday mornings at Eakin Park, Rich plays first base and hits sixth in the batting order. Also, Rich and his coach have been friends for 20+ years!
More photos of Rich playing softball:
Have you been following Gabriel Homes on social media?
If you're not, you're missing out on endless photos from all the fun at Gabriel Homes!
Like and follow us on all your favorite social media platforms of choice: Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter/X, and Threads.
15 years at her job, Lucy shines among her coworkers
Lucy goes the extra mile every day to keep her workplace in safe, healthy, and tip-top shape. She works in cleaning for the United States Geological Survey (USGS) and has her routine down to a science.
Registration Opens for 29th Annual Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament
Enjoy the beautiful scenery and challenging holes at Evergreen Country Club while supporting an important cause. With your support, Gabriel Homes can continue to provide high-quality services to residents so they can focus on achieving their independence and achieving their dreams.
Community Corner
The Golf Tournament tees off at the perfect time of year. Summer turns into fall, so the weather’s really nice. The middle of September is a beautiful time to play golf, and Gabriel Homes is such a great cause to support. We feel a sense of pride seeing the residents, organization, and charity grow over 30 years.
Dave Shacochis, annual golfer, Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament
See his full interview with Gabriel Homes
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.
Spotlights
Board Spotlight
Leslie Kane & Alicia Liddle
Daughters of one of our founders Patrick Kane, both have followed in his footsteps to serve our residents and leave their own legacies.
“My father always wanted to stretch ideas to their limits, so he taught me how to push myself, make connections, and uplift others.”
-Leslie
Staff Spotlight
Kassi Fretty
Kassi recently joined Gabriel Homes as a program coordinator. Since starting the end of May, Kassi jumped right in and started engaging with the residents. She brings a wealth of experience and fresh perspective to Gabriel Homes.
In fact, many of the pictures you see on social media are from Kassi's outings with the residents!
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.
Other Latest Stories:
Ladies’ Night Celebrates Asian Culture July 16, 2024 Read More
The Treehouse: July 2024 July 12, 2024 Read More
Community Corner: It’s An Annual Tradition! July 12, 2024 Read More
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Gabriel Homes is more than independence – it’s also about community.
The annual Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament has been a flagship event for almost 30 years, and the momentum hasn’t slowed down. Some golfers have participated since the tourney’s launch! One competitor in particular, Dave Shacochis, has come with his best friends from childhood to every tournament.
Gabriel Homes had the chance to catch up with Dave recently. Here's what he had to say:
How did you learn about Gabriel Homes?
I learned about the golf tournament at some point in the mid-90s through my college chaplain, Fr. Bob Cilinski. Ever since Father Bob introduced me to Gabriel Homes, my best friends have come in from out of state to play in the tournament every year. There’s a lot of fellowship between us because Gabriel Homes is such a great cause that my friends and I are warm to.
For those who may not know about the tournament, run them through the day. What happens each year?
It’s a first-class event, and it’s a full day. You’ve got breakfast and plenty of time to warm up in the morning. There are shotgun starts (meaning all groups of players tee off simultaneously at different holes) and everybody goes off. You’re well hydrated and you have plenty of refreshments all over the place. There’s a nice lunch at the turn and a beautiful dinner after the tournament. At dinner, there are awards ceremonies and generous door prizes and raffles.
The tournament is just a great time. It fills your day and is a wonderful day to spend your Monday. You can’t beat a day on the golf course.
What makes it fun going to each tournament?
It’s the perfect time of year. Summer turns into fall, so the weather’s really nice. The middle of September is a beautiful time to play golf, and again, Gabriel Homes is such a great cause to support. We feel a sense of pride seeing the residents, organization, and charity grow over 30 years.
Evergreen Country Club is an absolute gem. You’re sitting at the foothills of the mountains in Northern Virginia, you’re playing through some beautiful country, and the course is impeccably maintained. It’s a wonderful course to play.
How do you like seeing the residents every year?
It’s a great community of God’s children. The residents have strong bonds with the community, and Reston supports them and allows them to grow.
Gabriel Homes is one of those organizations that, the minute you realize what it is, you understand its importance. Getting to focus on Gabriel Homes is a real gift.
What are some of your favorite memories from the tournament?
You never remember the bad shots. You only remember the good shots. One of my best friends is someone I’ve known my entire life. He may not compete every year, but every time he does play, he wins closest to the pin. My friend isn’t an avid golfer, but he finds that magic every time he visits.
There are many other great stories, and my friends and I make an entire weekend centered around the tournament. The memories are too many to count.
What would you say to someone who’s never golfed for Gabriel Homes?
The tournament is a great day to come out with a group of friends or make new ones. I’ve had a fourth person join our group before, and then you make friends with them over the course of the day. You can golf with a whole range of communities, and the tournament is a beautiful experience. I recommend it to anyone.
Are you ready to tee off for a great cause?
Sign up for the 29th annual Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament today!
Register External LinkMore stories from the community:
Email to Lynn if you have a story or idea you'd like to share!
Community Corner: It’s An Annual Tradition! July 12, 2024 Read More Community Corner: You’ve Got a Friend in Me June 9, 2024 Read More Community Reacts to the New Gabrielhomes.org April 25, 2024 Read More dddcdWhen you get involved in nonprofits, your impact can hit home with those closest to you: namely, your family.
One family has been involved with Gabriel Homes, Inc. (GHI) since its founding in 1982.
Patrick Kane, one Gabriel Homes founder, was a community planner who helped make Reston the welcoming, accessible city it is today. Thanks in part to his leadership, his daughters Leslie and Alicia followed in his footsteps and blazed their own trails with Gabriel Homes.
“Our sister Amanda has Down syndrome, so she was a main reason why my dad helped found Gabriel Homes. Through him, I started writing grants part-time for Gabriel Homes. But I wore many hats here: I once painted a resident’s room in burgundy and gold because he wanted his bedroom decorated in the Commanders’ colors!"
Alicia Liddle
Former Gabriel Homes Staff and Board Member
After landing another job, Alicia took on a new role with Gabriel Homes.
She joined the board of directors, where she helped the nonprofit steer itself toward its success today. From the family side, Alicia helped Amanda join different activities with the residents, like dinners or holiday parties.
“Once you’re in with Gabriel Homes, you’re in,” Alicia joked.
Meet the full boardSeveral years after Alicia’s term with the board ended, Leslie stepped in and chaired the Marketing and Communications Committee. With Leslie’s background in sales and prominence in the Greater Reston community, she set her sights on making Gabriel Homes a household name.
“I want people to see that Gabriel Homes is a great resource for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. My father always wanted to stretch ideas to their limits, so he taught me how to push myself, make connections, and uplift others."
Leslie Kane
In 2022, Leslie started a podcast titled “Why Not Today?”
Leslie's show, named after one of her father's favorite phrases, spotlights guests who share courageous stories.
And Alicia may be outside Gabriel Homes today, but she still supports the organization through her job at Northwest Federal Credit Union (NWFCU). Also a not-for-profit, NWFCU posts volunteer opportunities and invests in its community, including Gabriel Homes.
The Kane family continues to hit new milestones with Gabriel Homes and Reston. Leslie and Alicia have befriended many of the residents at GHI, and Amanda is recognized everywhere she steps across Reston.
Our board of directors comes from all walks of life with unique stories.
See every board member’s story at gabrielhomes.org.
Learn MoreThe latest at Gabriel Homes:
Ladies’ Night Celebrates Asian Culture July 16, 2024 Read More Community Corner: It’s An Annual Tradition! July 12, 2024 Read More Legacies Last Generations at Gabriel Homes July 11, 2024 Read More Home Runs Highlight Special Olympics Softball July 9, 2024 Read More dddcdWhen adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) compete in the Special Olympics, they can develop social and emotional soft skills.
Many residents at Gabriel Homes compete in sports all year...
... from powerlifting to bowling to softball.
Rich, a resident at Gabriel Homes, is a slugger who wrapped up his spring softball season with the Fairfax Cougars. Meeting with the team on Saturday mornings at Eakin Park, Rich plays first base and hits sixth in the batting order.
“I’ve liked the Mets since I was a boy, and baseball is my favorite sport to watch and play. Batting and fielding are always fun for me, even in hot weather.”
Rich
Gabriel Homes Resident
Marc Egan met Rich at the Special Olympics when Marc was 12. Marc’s brother David competed in many sports with Rich. Growing up as an IDD advocate and now as a Special Olympics coach, Marc has built a lifelong friendship with Rich by seeing Nats games together and spending time with each other’s families.
Rich and I have been mentors to each other all my life. We’ve grown closer together because of the camaraderie at games and memories of traveling to different tournaments. On long car rides, we’ve bonded over our admiration for baseball.
Marc Egan
But as the saying goes, there is no “I” in “team.”
Like Rich, teammates like Austin and Matt have competed in the Special Olympics for years. Austin calls every tournament a blast and hopes more people come out to play, and Matt is thankful for chances to play since he didn’t compete as a kid.
“Playing in the Special Olympics is a dream come true,” Matt says. “You get to do something fun with people with IDD, and there’s so much support from the community to play in whatever sport you want.”
If you’re curious about what residents do during the week,
... see what a day in the life is like at Gabriel Homes.
Learn MoreRead more stories about our residents!
Home Runs Highlight Special Olympics Softball July 9, 2024 Read More Gabriel Homes Crushes Powerlifting Competition May 28, 2024 Read More A Striking Success March 2, 2024 Read More dddcd
Gabriel Homes is excited to announce that registration for the 2024 Golf Tournament is officially open!
Register Today
Sign up for a fun-filled day and empower adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Sign Up
Dear friends of Gabriel Homes,
Evergreen Country Club in Haymarket, Virginia, is excited to host our 29th annual Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament on Monday, September 16, 2024.
Each of you have a special place in your heart for Gabriel Homes residents living with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Thank you for your past involvement in this beautiful tradition, and we encourage you to again participate on the third Monday in September to golf on behalf of those with disabilities.
Your support makes each tournament possible.
We have held this tournament for 28 years and celebrate the amazing outpouring of generosity in support of our residents who meet challenges every day with joy and determination.
I thank each of you for supporting this year’s tournament. We could not keep up the great work of Gabriel Homes without you. Please join me, our board members, staff, and residents on September 16, 2024, for a fun day for a great cause.
Blessings,
Father Bob Cilinski
Honorary Member, Gabriel Homes Board of Directors
Past Tournament Photos:
Directions:
Evergreen Country Club
From I-66 to Exit 40.
Go NORTH on Route 15 (toward Leesburg).
Go 3½ miles and turn left onto Waterfall Road/Route 601.
Take the first right (about ½ mile) onto Mill Creek Road.
Go 1¼ miles and turn left onto Berkeley Drive.
Go ⅓ miles to the club entrance on the right.
Register Today dddcd
Celebrating 42 years of empowerment
Since 1982...
...Gabriel Homes has empowered adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live independently. Thanks to your support, our residents have been able to reach their potential and achieve their dreams.
Your contributions have made a real difference. Donations to Gabriel Homes help us provide vital services like home maintenance and renovations, allowing our residents to focus on their goals. These services are essential for creating a safe and comfortable living environment where our residents can thrive.
Residents flourish because of your impact.
As we celebrate our 42nd birthday, we reflect on the countless lives touched and the progress made. Our success is a testament to the dedication of our staff, the resilience of our residents, and the generosity of our supporters.
Thank you for being part of our journey and helping us create a brighter future for our residents. We look forward to continuing this important work together.
Give the gift of a donation today!
When you donate to Gabriel Homes, we can continue to provide high-quality services so residents can focus on achieving their goals.
The latest success stories at Gabriel Homes:
Announcement: Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament 2024 Registration is Now Live July 1, 2024 Read More
Gabriel Homes Celebrates 42nd Birthday! June 25, 2024 Read More
Waiting for a Developmental Disability Waiver? Here’s the Process: June 25, 2024 Read More
dddcd
Note: Much of the content from this article is based on the Arc of NOVA’s May 20 webinar, “What to Expect While Waiting for a DD Waiver Confirmation.” Visit their website to learn more about free, upcoming webinars.
A Huge Win for IDD Advocacy
Over the next two years, Medicaid Waivers will be approved quarterly for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The budget approved by the Virginia legislature allows Medicaid to accept thousands of applicants through the end of June 30, 2026.
If you’re one of the thousands who need waiver benefits, Gabriel Homes is here to help.
Getting Started
Your main point of contact must be your Community Services Board (CSB) representative. Applicants for benefits are considered for slots based on need according to Virginia Individual Developmental Disability Eligibility Survey (VIDES) assessments done by CSB support coordinators (SCs).
If you don’t know your SC or need their contact information, reach out to us if your family member is a resident at Gabriel Homes. If you’re looking to start the process of applying for benefits or becoming a resident, contact your county's CSB.
Next Steps
After your VIDES assessment, the CSB may then place you on a waitlist based on your results. You must be on the priority one waitlist to be taken off the list and start the process of applying for benefits. Please keep in mind: Waiver approvals can take months, even if you’re on the priority one waitlist.
Once you’re off the waitlist, you’re assigned a Waiver based on the level of support you need and the living situation that suits you best. Thearcofnova.org does a deep dive into the types of waivers and the benefits they provide.
Remember that accepting Waiver benefits is like receiving acceptance to college.
You must reply to all communications and submit your documentation on time, or the Waiver can be withdrawn. The Virginia Department of Medical Assisted Services (DMAS) then lets someone else in the slot instead. You can reapply for benefits if you miss your acceptance window, but your application and waitlist processes start over.
If you have more questions on the Medicaid Waiver process...
...The Arc of NOVA has countless free webinars on YouTube. Also, visit our FAQ page for more questions about applying for and receiving Waiver benefits.
See what a day in the life of a resident is like...
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Lifting Spirits and Fostering Friendships June 6, 2024 Read More
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