Register Today!
Reston, Va. — Gabriel Homes, a leading housing provider for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), is opening registrations for the 31st Annual Golf Tournament. The tournament tees off on Monday, September 21, 2026, at Evergreen Country Club in Haymarket, Va. Golfers and volunteers from the Northern Virginia community gather to support Gabriel Homes and raise funds for high-quality services.
Secure Your Spot External Link
Gabriel Homes promises this year’s tournament will be the biggest and best to date. Golfers of all skill levels can enjoy 18 holes and breathtaking scenery within the Bull Run Mountains. Those who want to press their luck for prizes can try skill challenges on the links, or guests can enter to win prizes or 50-50 raffles.
“Our tournament is special because of the people behind it. Golfers, volunteers, residents, staff, and board members show up every year, support another, and are drivers in our mission of independence for adults with IDD.” 
Lynn Davis Executive Director, Gabriel Homes
Golfers of all skill levels are welcome.
Participants can register individually or as a team. Proceeds benefit services and home maintenance so that residents can focus on building their independence and achieving their dreams. Guests can see the direct impact of their donations by meeting many of the residents on the course.
Thank you to last year’s Guardian Angel sponsors:
Secure your spot at the 31st Annual Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament at signupgenius.com
Contact info@gabrielhomes.org if you’re interested in sponsoring the event or volunteering. Register Today
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Rich (right) earned a silver medal for bowling at the Special Olympics Summer State Games. The statewide championships brought athletes together in Richmond to test their skills at the highest level.
Competition for Everyone
Special Olympics bowling offers two categories of competition, Singles and Ramp. Athletes deliver the ball themselves in Singles, and Ramp allows the use of a ramp to deliver the ball. The two divisions open the sport to bowlers of all abilities.
Gabriel Homes spoke with Rich, who competed in singles, about spending the day in Richmond and winning the silver medal. Here’s what he had to say:
What was bowling in Richmond like?“The Special Olympics Summer Games had about 300 people competing in bowling. The championships had to be split between Friday and Saturday so everyone could compete. I went to the Special Olympics bowling state games on the second day because of work.
“The weather was so hot when we were in Richmond! I was happy that bowling was an indoor sport.”
What were your scores when you bowled?“Everyone plays three games, and the league adds the points to decide the winners. I bowled 81, 134, and 105. The second one was one of the best in a long time, and I was proud that I could still bowl that high. My medal felt right because I worked hard on my bowling.
Getting silver sounded like a great result when you faced over 100 people.“I wanted to win the gold, but everyone was excited about me winning silver. It’s who I am: I want to be the best at bowling, and I’ll keep trying until I win.”
How does Special Olympics bowling stand out compared to other sports?“The bowlers and coaches are good people to be around. We sit around and talk about our scores. Sometimes we show off the way we bowl if someone is struggling. There are always some good laughs, and the group is easy to hang out with and talk to. I love bowling because I win lots of medals, but the people bring me back each year.”
What are your goals for next season?“Win the gold medal. The next bowling season starts in September, but I want to practice on my own this summer. I want to get a head start against other bowlers and score even higher by the fall. Let’s beat 134!”
More Action at the Special Olympics Virginia State Games
The same weekend, another resident, Sean (right), competed in the state games for track and field on the state level. See how Sean placed in the shot put, and see photos from the meet, at gabrielhomes.org/stories. See Sean’s Results dddcd
At the Special Olympics Virginia Summer Games, athletes from across the state competed in various sports after months of training and previous matches.
Special Olympics track and field was a central sport of the weekend. The competition ranged from 25- to 5,000-meter runs to long jump and shot put.
Special Olympics Track and Field Competitions
Sean (right), a resident at Gabriel Homes, stepped into the throwing circle and gripped the shot with deep concentration. During the summer games, Sean competed in shot put, softball throw, and short-distance sprints.
“I won two silver medals for the shot put and softball throw,” said Sean. “My friends and coaches cheered loudly for me when I got my medals. I’m proud to be a part of this team.”
Sean, Gabriel Homes Resident
A Team-Wide Effort
Support from teammates and family plays a big role in the athletes’ triumphs. Sean’s team, the Chantilly Electric, cheers their friends from the sidelines, high-fives when someone wins a medal, and pushes one another before the next event.
“I’ve been competing in track and field for about four years, and I won two ribbons last year for the 400- and 800-meter runs. Getting your medal in front of a large crowd feels incredible. I love the Special Olympics because it’s full of amazing people.” 
Brady Chantilly Electric
Balancing Physical Preparation With Mental Readiness
The range of events demands athletes combine their strength, balance, and confidence. Being mentally ready is equally as important as the physical side when competing.
“My biggest advice: be brave. I used to be nervous before events, but now I feel excited and love doing Special Olympics. My shot put goes much farther and I run much faster than when I started.”
Jeffrey (second photo, right), Chantilly Electric
Meet more athletes at Gabriel Homes!
Residents at Gabriel Homes compete in a wide range of sports, including soccer, powerlifting, bowling, and more! See more photos of our residents’ medals and stories of their achievements at gabrielhomes.org/stories. See more photos & stories
More sports spotlights at Gabriel Homes:
Sean Shows His Strength at Special Olympics Track and Field June 23, 2026 Read More
Powerlifting Residents Crush the Winter Wrecker Tournament December 19, 2025 Read More
Special Olympics Soccer Is a Calling for Athletes October 22, 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
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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Herndon brought the town together by heating up and cooling down.
Polar Heat on Lynn Street, held in the heart of Downtown Herndon, blended hot and cold themes into a first-of-its-kind festival.
Gabriel Homes residents who live in Herndon were so close to the festival that they walked to it.
Polar Heat on Lynn Street featured two distinct areas. Guests moved freely between the high-energy heat side and the more relaxed cool side. The residents spent most of the time in the heat section, where friends from MindShift Gym showcased an outdoor obstacle course.
“The balancing beams were easy since I’ve been working on them in our classes. I’m much faster climbing over the blocks, too!”
Chris, Gabriel Homes Resident
Hot and Cold Food at Polar Heat on Lynn Street
Food vendors lined up the street with a mix of hot and cold options. The weather was in the mid-80s during the festival, but the hot section stayed busy with a jalapeño-eating contest. Since the weather was warm, residents opted for the ice pops.
“I needed something to cool down after all that exercise! The snacks gave me the energy I needed to see everything else.” 
Caryn Gabriel Homes Resident
Same Town, But Meeting New Faces
Activities throughout the festival gave families plenty to do between music and food. A s’mores station was a delicious treat in the hot section, a snowball fight cooled guests off in the cold half, and local nonprofits and civic groups had interactive stations at their booths. Caryn and her housemates John met the vendors at each booth and collected everyone’s swag.
“Everyone was super nice at Polar Heat. I wish there was another one soon so we could meet more people. Downtown Herndon is such a fun time!”
John, Gabriel Homes Resident
In April, Gabriel Homes held its first-ever All Abilities Block Party...
... a celebration of people with disabilities in the heart of Reston. Like Polar Street, the block party included interactive stations and food options for guests. See a full recap of the event and see how you can get involved for next year’s party at gabrielhomes.org. Learn More
More Stories at Gabriel Homes:
Polar Heat on Lynn Street Connects Residents With Community June 19, 2026 Read More
The Treehouse: June 2026 Newsletter June 3, 2026 Read More
Summer Blockbusters Drive Residents to the Movies June 1, 2026 Read More
Residents Catch Civil War Reenactment in Culpeper May 28, 2026 Read More
Virginia Passes Major Victories for Families of People With IDD May 27, 2026 Read More
Summer Momentum Pushes Forward at MindShift Gym May 26, 2026 Read More
How Residents Beat the Heat Walking in Reston May 22, 2026 Read More
Gabriel Homes Finalist for ACE Awards 2026 May 19, 2026 Read More
The Treehouse: May 2026 Newsletter May 7, 2026 Read More
January Celebrates Easter in Durham, NC May 5, 2026 Read More
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June 2026: Summer Starts With Independence
The June 2026 edition of Gabriel Homes’, monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, sees summer coming toward us faster than ever! See stories featuring trips to the movies and watching movies at home, how an anonymous donor has helped create a valuable partnership, and some breaking news you will not want to miss. See more below.
Breaking News:
Gabriel Homes a Finalist for Nonprofit of the Year
Hosted annually by the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, the 2026 Awards for Chamber Excellence honor Reston’s most innovative and impactful organizations.
Learn About the NominationSpecial thanks to Charles Kapur (left), a senior vice president at John Marshall Bank and member of the GRCC board of directors, for submitting us for an ACE Award.
See the story of our nomination and why Gabriel Homes was nominated at gabrielhomes.org.
Virginia Legislature Passes Major IDD Victories
Dozens of bills supported by families of people with IDD were signed into law. Many victories go into effect this summer.
New laws passed in Virginia include:
- Ignoring Social Security Disability Income when deciding who qualifies for Medicaid Waiver services
- Protecting voting rights for adults with IDD under guardianship
- Expanding police training on interacting with drivers with autism
- and more!
Learn more about all the policy victories signed into law gabrielhomes.org.
The Latest:
Residents Catch Civil War Reenactment
David, a newer resident, and Lucy (first and second photos), saw thousands of actors travel from across the country to recreate the First Battle of Bull Run. As a history buff, David has a collection of books and artifacts about the war.
“I’d never seen a reenactment in person before, but it was exciting! Movies like ‘Gettysburg’ don’t show how big these battles really were.”
David, Gabriel Homes Resident
See the full recap of the reenactment
How Resident Take Walks to Beat the Heat
Gabriel Homes proudly boasts that its six homes are near walkable, paved trails. Residents know the trails’ routes by heart, and many take regular walks from their home to another.
When the summer heat picks up, some residents prefer to walk in the morning, evening, or indoors instead of the afternoon.
See all the way residents reach their step goals at gabrielhomes.org.
Follow us on social media for weekly updates, and share your favorite stories with your followers:
Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter Threads LinkSummer Blockbusters Drive Residents to the Movies
A day at the movies differs from resident to resident. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Gabriel Homes rented out the entire Cinema Arts theater. Some residents were so excited to go out that they dressed in suits to mark the occasion.
“I’m much more excited to go to the movies when it’s an event worth dressing for.”
Gabe (right), Gabriel Homes Resident
Check out our residents’ favorite movies at gabrielhomes.org.
Donor Spotlight:
The donor spotlight is the latest addition to our newsletter. Each month, Gabriel Homes will spotlight one person, company, or organization whose donations support independence for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Eead a new story each month to see where your donation makes a tangible difference, and make the goal of independence for people of all abilities a reality with your donation at gabrielhomes.org/donate.
Anonymous Donor Sponsors Local Partnerships
Gabriel Homes residents head to MindShift Gym for weekly parkour and dance classes. Courses meet the residents at their skill level and help them move at their preferred pace. Our residents can use these fantastic programs thanks to the support of an anonymous donor.
“Our family foundation is proud to support Gabriel Homes because of the incredible impact they have on the lives of the individuals they serve. Their focus on independence, dignity, and community integration truly sets them apart.
Gabriel Homes Anonymous Donor
“We hope others will join us in supporting their mission as ongoing donors.”
DONATE
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.
DonateMore stories you may have missed:
The Treehouse: June 2026 Newsletter June 3, 2026 Read More Summer Blockbusters Drive Residents to the Movies June 1, 2026 Read More Residents Catch Civil War Reenactment in Culpeper May 28, 2026 Read More Virginia Passes Major Victories for Families of People With IDD May 27, 2026 Read More Summer Momentum Pushes Forward at MindShift Gym May 26, 2026 Read More How Residents Beat the Heat Walking in Reston May 22, 2026 Read More Gabriel Homes Finalist for ACE Awards 2026 May 19, 2026 Read More The Treehouse: May 2026 Newsletter May 7, 2026 Read More January Celebrates Easter in Durham, NC May 5, 2026 Read More Shopping at Gabriel Homes Fosters Independence May 5, 2026 Read More Residents Host Spring-Themed Party May 5, 2026 Read More Darcy Takes in New Orleans Culture, History, and Food May 4, 2026 Read More dddcdMovie ticket sales peak in the summer.
With more free time and a desire to escape the heat, audiences go to the theaters in higher numbers, and studios release their biggest blockbusters from May to August.
Movies at Gabriel Homes
A day at the movies with the residents of Gabriel Homes looks different from person to person. While some residents channel surf or rent movies at home, others prefer to catch the latest releases and summer blockbusters on the big screen.
“I go to the LOOK theater every Saturday to catch a new flick. They serve real food and drink to your seat. I always look forward to the weekend because it’s a chance to kick my feet up and relax.”
Rich
Gabriel Homes Resident
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Gabriel Homes rented out the entire Cinema Arts theater, an independent Fairfax cinema. Residents hurried to their seats with popcorn and drinks in their hands like it was any other year seeing any summer blockbuster. Housemates sat with each other while socially distancing from other residents. Joe, Sam, Sean, and Gabe (left to right) were so excited to leave their home for the movies that they dressed in suits to mark the occasion.
“Dressing up makes going to the movies feel special. I’m much more excited to go to the movies when it’s an event worth dressing for.”
Gabe
Gabriel Homes Resident
Some Gabriel Homes residents gave their thoughts on their favorite movies:
Chris:
“I’ve loved The Little Mermaid since I was a kid. Sebastian the crab is funny, and his song ‘Under the Sea’ is really catchy. Also, Ursula’s a scary villain. My favorite character is Ariel, though. I want to see more of the world like she does at the beginning of the movie.”
More on Chris
Patrick:
“Transformers is the coolest movie I’ve ever seen. A bunch of cars turn into Autobots, led by Optimus Prime. Bumble Bee is the best Transformer because he starts as a Volkswagen but looks strong. I worry about the people who drive the Transformers: What happens to them when the Autobots fall over during a fight? I couldn’t fight inside a Transformer.”
More on Patrick
Joe:
“I grew up watching the old Star Wars movies. Han Solo is cool because he acts tough, but he also cares about his friends. Darth Vader scared me when I was younger: I could never forget his dark costume and deep voice. The best part of Star Wars is that the movies take place in outer space.
More on JoeTrips to the theaters or movie nights at home are two of the endless ways our residents bond.
Catch future stories of how residents shine in their independence by signing up for our free monthly newsletter. Sign UpThe latest stories from our newsletter:
Summer Blockbusters Drive Residents to the Movies June 1, 2026 Read More Residents Catch Civil War Reenactment in Culpeper May 28, 2026 Read More Virginia Passes Major Victories for Families of People With IDD May 27, 2026 Read More Summer Momentum Pushes Forward at MindShift Gym May 26, 2026 Read More How Residents Beat the Heat Walking in Reston May 22, 2026 Read More Gabriel Homes Finalist for ACE Awards 2026 May 19, 2026 Read More The Treehouse: May 2026 Newsletter May 7, 2026 Read More January Celebrates Easter in Durham, NC May 5, 2026 Read More Shopping at Gabriel Homes Fosters Independence May 5, 2026 Read More Residents Host Spring-Themed Party May 5, 2026 Read More dddcd
The First Battle of Bull Run, the first major battle of the American Civil War, was fought in the summer of 1861.
With over 4,500 known casualties from the battle, leaders had to grapple with the possibility that the war could last years.
A Trip to a Civil War Reenactment
Two residents at Gabriel Homes, David and Lucy (first and second photos), saw a Civil War reenactment of the battle in Culpeper, Virginia. Thousands of reenactors traveled from as far as Wyoming and the Midwest to recreate the battle. As a history buff, David has a collection of books and artifacts about the Civil War. He wore a polo, which commemorated the anniversary of the Gettysburg address and the Union’s 1863 victory in the town, to the reenactment.
“I’d never seen a reenactment in person before, but it was exciting to watch! Movies like ‘Gettysburg’ don’t show how big these battles really were. I saw thousands of people in uniform with weapons and gear.”
David, Gabriel Homes Resident
History Repeats Itself
There was a lot of confusion over which side was the Union, who wore gray, or the Confederacy, who wore blue, during the reenactment. The uniforms’ shades mixed in the sunlight, and David and Lucy struggled to tell the sides apart. During the 1861 battle, leaders and soldiers faced the same sense of disorder as they struggled to see friend from foe.
General William T. Sherman wrote when he was a colonel for the Union Army: “This regiment is uniformed in gray cloth, almost identical with that of the great bulk of the secession army, and when the regiment fell into confusion and retreated toward the road there was an [sic] universal cry that they were being fired on by our own men.”
Beyond the battlefield, the group saw authentic military encampments of the war. Rows of canvas tents lined along the grass, and some tents showed gear inside. Rifles from the era stood stacked with the tent rows. Soldiers, some of whom were on horseback, marched past the residents as the actors formed their ranks. Cannons and rifles fired during the afternoon, and David and Lucy walked to the edge of the viewing area to see the large scale of the battle.
“Seeing the gear and equipment was my favorite part of the trip since the battle was loud. Everything looked so old. I couldn’t believe soldiers used those wooden rifles to fight!” 
Lucy Gabriel Homes Resident
After the reenactment, David and Lucy visited the battles’ original site at Manassas National Battlefield Park. The group hiked two miles along mostly wooded trails. With little shade on the battlefield, David and Lucy were desperate to escape the heat. David said that a quick stop for ice cream on the way home was a delicious way to cool down.
“The weather was in the 80s all day, so we had to get ice cream on the way homeI still hope we have the chance to see more battles. There must be a lot of work to show what these battles looked like.” 
David
Another resident, Stephen, honored his father, a World War II veteran, when he visited Arlington National Cemetery.
Visit gabrielhomes.org/stories to learn about his father’s service during another major period of American history. Learn More
More interests at Gabriel Homes:
Residents Catch Civil War Reenactment in Culpeper May 28, 2026 Read More
Summer Momentum Pushes Forward at MindShift Gym May 26, 2026 Read More
Darcy Takes in New Orleans Culture, History, and Food May 4, 2026 Read More
Gabriel Homes Hosts St. Patrick’s Day Party April 7, 2026 Read More
Gabriel Homes Ups the Ante with Game Night March 9, 2026 Read More
Painting Purpose That Connects Us – One Word at Pinot’s Palette Dulles January 23, 2026 Read More
Gabriel Homes Goes All-Out in Christmas Decorations at Home December 23, 2025 Read More
Residents Celebrate Veterans Day in Washington, DC November 25, 2025 Read More
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During the 2026 Virginia legislative session, dozens of bills supported by families of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) were signed into law.
Major 2026 Victories in Virginia
Updating Developmental Disability (DD) Waiver protections was a leading priority (and among the victories) for IDD advocacy groups like The Arc of Northern Virginia. As of July 1, 2026, people can keep their DD Waiver services under new conditions for Social Security Disability Income (SSDI). HB37 ensures the state now ignores SSDI when deciding who qualifies for services, including when monthly payments increase after a parent’s death.
“When the parent of an adult with a DD Waiver begins to collect SSDI, the child with IDD may receive benefits based on the parent’s earnings. Benefits may increase when a parent dies. The extra money may put the recipient’s income beyond the limit for qualifying for the waiver. While the extra income may be welcome, it could never be enough to fund waiver services. The new law will ease parents’ minds, knowing that their hard-earned social security benefits will not cause their child to lose their DD waiver.”
Donna Patchett, Chair, Gabriel Homes Board of Directors; Board Member, The Arc of Northern Virginia
Most policies signed into law that positively impact adults with IDD go into effect this summer. Major victories from the 2026 Virginia session include:
- Protecting voting rights for people with IDD under guardianship or conservatorship; courts to decide if a person can understand the act of voting. (HB1014)
- Expanding police and emergency medical training on interacting with drivers with autism, educating drivers about DMV license and registration options, and promoting the Blue Envelope program on the Virginia DMV website. (HB1097)
- Directing the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia to create transition individualized education program (IEP) guidelines so students with IDD can transition into college with accommodations. (HB468)
- Adding protections for people with IDD to have criminal cases potentially paused, dismissed, and wiped from their records. (HB247)
“The heart of disability advocacy is people with lived experience, meaning those with DD and their families. The personal stories these advocates tell about the impact of policies on their lives change hearts, minds, and votes on bills. When we have a legislator willing to take the lead on reform, our advocates show up in big numbers and give public comments, speeches, action alert responses, and join us in Richmond.”
Lucy Beadnell, Chief Advocacy and Policy Officer, The Arc of Northern Virginia
Get Involved With Your Legislator
The Arc of NoVa invites self-advocates and families to meet with legislators this summer to talk about policy concerns. Show your interest in summer legislator meetings by filling out a short form at tinyurl.com/ArcMeetings2026. Sign UpMedicaid DD Waiver: Your Questions Answered
If you’re looking to learn more about the Medicaid DD Waiver, our FAQ explains the application process, eligibility, and more.
Learn MoreCheck out our resident spotlights:
Summer Blockbusters Drive Residents to the Movies June 1, 2026 Read More Residents Catch Civil War Reenactment in Culpeper May 28, 2026 Read More Summer Momentum Pushes Forward at MindShift Gym May 26, 2026 Read More How Residents Beat the Heat Walking in Reston May 22, 2026 Read More Shopping at Gabriel Homes Fosters Independence May 5, 2026 Read More Residents Host Spring-Themed Party May 5, 2026 Read More Darcy Takes in New Orleans Culture, History, and Food May 4, 2026 Read More Residents Find Confidence in Inclusive Ballet Courses April 3, 2026 Read More 2026: The Year of Dave March 30, 2026 Read More Gabriel Homes Ups the Ante with Game Night March 9, 2026 Read More Gabriel Homes Celebrates Friendship on Galentine’s Day March 5, 2026 Read More Night to Shine 2026 Was a Blast for Residents March 4, 2026 Read More dddcd
Summer at Gabriel Homes starts with small changes.
Routines adjust for summer tournaments, camp, and vacations. Living near plenty of trails, our residents take longer walks. Residents have more energy and are ready to get active.
After months of winter routines, summer feels like a chance to loosen up physically and mentally. MindShift Gym fits naturally into the seasonal shift.
Each week, Gabriel Homes residents head to MindShift for weekly parkour and dance classes. The gym isn’t about moving in any right way. Courses are adaptable: they meet the residents at their skill level and help them move at their preferred pace. Some days may involve balance beams, while others may involve large obstacles. No matter what residents choose, the participation matters most.
“Adaptability is our best feature at MindShift. We aim to be a welcoming space so people of all ages, sizes, and abilities can be active.”
Harry, Instructor, MindShift Gym
How MindShift Courses Are Changing This Summer:
The lessons change, but the goal stays the same: building confidence through movement. Practicing with obstacles becomes a way to build trust, like trust in your body, the instructor, and yourself. Residents cheer each other on and clap when someone tries or accomplishes something new; sometimes they race to go first on the obstacle course. What started with hesitation has become enthusiasm.
“I’m much better at balancing on the beam than when I started. My goal this summer is to get better at jumping. Sometimes I do stretches at home so that I’m ready for class!” 
Patrick Gabriel Homes Resident 
Partnerships foster success.
Gabriel Homes first connected with MindShift at a networking night hosted by the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce. The partnership is possible through the funding of a generous anonymous donor, whose support provides access to community-based programs that build independence and confidence.
“Our family foundation is proud to support Gabriel Homes because of the incredible impact they have on the lives of the individuals they serve. Their focus on independence, dignity, and community integration truly sets them apart. Each month, their newsletter reminds us that our support is making a real difference. We hope others will join us in supporting their mission as ongoing donors.”
Generous Anonymous Gabriel Homes Donor
This summer, MindShift is offering summer camps for people of all skill levels and abilities.
Their courses include learning parkour basics like jumping and swinging, then putting those skills to the test on an obstacle course. Mindshiftgym.com/camps has additional information on the programs, schedule, registration, and more. Learn More
Our residents’ growth in their independence and confidence doesn’t happen by chance.
Milestones are possible because of the donors, volunteers, and partners at Gabriel Homes. Learn all the ways you can join our community at gabrielhomes.org. Get Involved
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If you’ve ever tried going for a walk in the middle of a Virginia summer, you know the story.
The weather is hot and humid at noon, so people adjust their walking schedules to avoid the heat. In climates like Reston, people tend to walk during the cooler parts of the day, namely mid-morning and early evening, when the outdoors is more bearable.
Getting Outdoors
Gabriel Homes proudly boasts that its six homes are near walkable, paved trails. The paths are part of Reston’s broader network of trails that connect neighborhoods and encourage everyday exercise. Residents know the trails’ routes by heart, and many take regular walks from their home to another.
Walking Nearly Every Day in Reston
Lucy is famous among the residents for the miles she can walk without tiring. She easily reaches 10,000 steps each day through her work cleaning at the United States Geological Survey. At home after her shifts, she and David, another resident, walk around their neighborhood using the sidewalks. The two usually walk about two miles per outing.
“Going on walks with friends is important because you can count on each other to go outside. We can exercise our hearts and legs and get some nice, clean air. Seeing birds, bugs, and flowers teaches you about your environment, and you see what’s new around you.”
David, Gabriel Homes Resident
Getting Outdoors
On days off work, Dave, another resident, heads to David’s home and back home twice a day using the paths and sidewalks. The route is about two miles total, so Dave walks in the morning and later afternoon to avoid the burn from the worst of the summer heat. Since he spends much of the workday outside pushing shopping carts indoors, Dave looks forward to breathing in fresh air on his days off.
“My legs feel great after long walks. I’ve been doing these walks for a long, long time, and I feel healthier than ever doing them!”
Dave
Gabriel Homes Resident
Walking Nearly Every Day in Reston
When the sun is too brutal for walking outside, some residents step indoors at Dulles Town Center. Mall walking has become a popular way for some to meet with friends and exercise indoors. Residents like to look into the shops from the main path, while others walk with goals in mind. Some trips may add a stop or two at a favorite shop.
Many also take part in dance and parkour classes at MindShift Gym and compete in Special Olympics sports. Catch up on all the ways residents build healthy habits at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Click Here“I like to stop at Bath and Body Works and smell the candles. If I have money on me, sometimes I buy some ice cream in the mall. My favorite shop there sells purple yam-flavored ice cream. It sounds funny, but you have to try it!”
Chris, Gabriel Homes Resident