The median employee tenure for men is 4.2 years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
At Gabriel Homes, senior residential counselor Reuben Sidifall bucks the trend of brief tenures.
Moving to Reston from Liberia, Reuben found a gathering with other immigrants from his home country.
A home supervisor from Liberia introduced Reuben to Gabriel Homes. Because of his background in human services, Reuben was hired by the supervisor as a direct support professional.
Twenty-eight years later, Reuben has carried out Gabriel Homes’ mission by empowering our residents to reach their full potential. Staff call him the North Star of Gabriel Homes. The residents have grown to trust Reuben, and Reuben says they are his second family.
Reuben’s story is full of heart, dedication, and a few surprises! Here are four things about Reuben that you may not know:
1. Reuben takes pride in his home country when the world has its eyes on it.
The Olympics and World Cup, for example, expose hundreds of millions of viewers to countries’ cultures and traditions. Reuben looks back fondly on when Liberia was the center of attention. In 1995, the country’s soccer sensation, George Weah, won the prestigious Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year awards. Weah’s star status in the sports world earned him the nickname “King George.” In part thanks to Weah’s goal-scoring success, soccer is the most popular sport in Liberia.
“Sometimes I watch soccer with the residents if there’s a good game on. One of our former residents was a big Liverpool fan. I was happy seeing him smile when they scored.”
Reuben Sidifall
2. Reuben overcame his own fears for the residents when he took them on vacations.
He and the residents often drove out of state for past trips to Florida and Wisconsin. On one summer trip, Reuben faced his fear of heights when he flew out of state with the residents.
“He may not like flying, but he cares about the residents’ best interests,” says Pierrein Kardamie, a residential counselor and Reuben’s daughter. “It means a lot to them and me that he’s willing to sacrifice his interests for us.”
3. Like Father, Like Daughter:
Reuben’s wife and Pierrein’s sister worked together at a different organization. At home, dinner conversations often left Reuben and Pierrein feeling left out. They couldn’t connect with the rest of the family over their workdays. When Pierrein joined Gabriel Homes in 2020, she and her father started sharing more about their workdays at family gatherings.
“My dad and I have gotten closer over the years because of Gabriel Homes,” says Pierrein. “We bond over what’s going on at our shifts and activities we’re planning with the residents.”
Pierrein Kardamie
Residential Counselor, Gabriel Homes
4. Reuben sometimes helps his family prepare dinners.
Bitter leaf soup, a popular Liberian dish, is one of Reuben’s favorite meals. Reuben swears by pairing the soup with fufu, a mashed potato-like starch.
At Gabriel Homes, residents rotate cooking and serving dinner to their housemates each day. Many residents serve delicious meals thanks to Reuben teaching them proper kitchen skills, like using the stove and utensils. One resident, Sean, serves his housemates and powerlifting friends sandwiches and tomato soup for Men’s Night. Reuben lends an extra hand only when Sean asks for help.
Sean
Gabriel Homes Resident
For his decades of service and compassion for our residents...
... Reuben Sidifall was inducted into the Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame in 2024. Read about every inductee at gabrielhomes.org. Meet Our Hall of Fame Inductees dddcd
Having lots of hobbies can teach you a lot about yourself.
Studies show that doing a variety of activities can be good for your mental health and expand your social network. Supporting children to try different passions, like ones found in family adventures, can help them learn life skills like making friends and being active.
Check out Sara’s family adventures:
Sara, a resident at Gabriel Homes, often sees her parents on weekends when she’s not busy with adult social club or her parish, Saint John Neumann. Visits are usually easygoing since the group often prefers watching shows or movies. Sara’s an avid fan of the Harry Potter franchise, so she likes playing one of the many films for everyone.
“The world of Harry Potter is comforting. The books aren’t like anything else. Hermione is my favorite character because she’s a good friend to Harry, and she reads lots of books like me.”
Sara
Gabriel Homes Resident
The Harry Potter series follows Sara’s family on vacations.
When traveling, Sara also loves riding rollercoasters. Her favorite rides are at Harry Potter World at Universal Studios. One intense ride has upside-down sections and loops.
On one past trip, Sara wanted to ride the vigorous rollercoaster but had little fanfare from the family. Lee stepped up and volunteered to ride with her. Getting off the rollercoaster with Sara, Lee didn’t have a chance to recollect himself because she insisted they ride it again.
“We had a guest pass where we could jump the rollercoaster wait lines. Sara’s uncle was out of it for the day after one of the rides because we were doing them quickly.”
Lee
Lee and Mary, Sara’s mom, raised their children in Richmond.
Virginia’s capital held an annual Tour de Midnight bike ride competition, and Lee and Sara would bike through the city and several parks. In one tournament, Lee and Sara strung their tandem bike with Christmas lights. The father-daughter duo went on to win the best tandem bike award for their decorating.
“Sara was excited when I asked her to do the tour with me that year. It was hard work putting the bike together and pedaling through the city, but we made it to the end in one piece!”
Lee
Sara is an avid reader and learner.
Away from her family adventures and at the College of Adaptive Arts, Sara is learning more about her love of acting in a film studies class. See how education is one of her passions at gabrielhomes.org/stories. More on Sara’s education journeyThe latest stories from Gabriel Homes:
The Treehouse: June 2025 Newsletter June 2, 2025 Read More Residents Share Favorite Memories with Their Dads June 1, 2025 Read More Four Facts About Reuben Sidifall May 30, 2025 Read More Family Adventures With Sara, Old and New May 29, 2025 Read More Faith Leader in Virginia Is a Father Figure to Many May 28, 2025 Read More Things to Do in Memphis: Gabriel Homes Edition May 27, 2025 Read More Sunday Routines in NOVA Bring John and His Family Joy May 22, 2025 Read More Community Corner: Extended Families Improve Communities May 16, 2025 Read More The Treehouse: May 2025 Newsletter May 5, 2025 Read More Preparing Your Child With IDD (and Yourself) for Independence May 2, 2025 Read More dddcd
Nonprofits rarely, if ever, turn into overnight success stories.
Stability can take years as nonprofits work to earn trust with communities and steadily raise funds.
A Faith Leader in Northern Virginia
Reverend Monsignor Bob Cilinski, known by many as Father Bob, joined the Gabriel Homes board of directors in 1990. Many adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) faced, and continue to face, long waitlists for independent homes. Fr. Bob educated himself on systemic barriers for adults with IDD and raised awareness of them in Reston. His greatest challenge on the board was expanding Gabriel Homes’ services so more adults with IDD could enjoy independent lives.
“We had two homes when I joined the board, and we wanted to do everything we could to provide independence to more families. Our goals were to purchase more homes, develop our programs and staff, and find ways residents could be more involved in the community.”
Father Bob Cilinski
The board, which included the faith leader in Virginia, agreed that sharing Gabriel Homes’ story with the community was the best way to fundraise and expand. The Gabriel Homes golf tournament spread the word about the organization and joined the community for a common cause. Golfers saw the impact of their donations when they met the residents on the course. The golf committee, which included Fr. Bob, helped grow the fundraiser into a flagship event by adding more sponsors, volunteers, and golfers over time.
“Fr. Bob was my college chaplain at George Mason University, and he introduced me to Gabriel Homes and the residents. 30 years later, he’s the reason my friends from high school and I come back and golf for Gabriel Homes.” 
Dave Shacochis (second from right) Annual Golfer at the Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament
Fr. Bob stepped down from the board after 33 years. The faith leader continues his work as a pastor at Nativity Catholic Church in Burke, Virginia.
During Fr. Bob’s tenure, Gabriel Homes grew from two homes to six and from five residents to 25. The board added diverse leaders like direct support professionals, accountants, and tradespeople. In recognition of his commitment to our residents, Gabriel Homes inducted the Virginia faith leader into the Hall of Fame in 2023.
“Fr. Bob proves that when you lead with compassion and purpose, the community follows. His legacy to Gabriel Homes isn’t measured in numbers – it’s shown in the lives he transforms.” 
Michele Bolos Chair, Gabriel Homes Board of Directors
Seeing the residents live their dreams was Fr. Bob’s favorite achievement on the board.
Fr. Bob saw the residents lead faith groups and make lifelong friends. Residents became more confident and self-assured by becoming team leaders at their jobs and Special Olympics champions on the field.
“I wear the title Father proudly above all the other titles I have been given,” Father Bob said. “Our residents have earthly fathers, and Catholic residents have priests. No matter their faith or parish, residents know they have a spiritual father with me.”
If Fr. Bob’s story inspires you and you’re interested in serving a nonprofit, our board of directors may be your perfect fit.
The board has four committees: executive, health and welfare, development, and infrastructure. See which committee best suits your skills at gabrielhomes.org. Learn More
More board spotlights:
Faith Leader in Virginia Is a Father Figure to Many May 27, 2025 Read More
College and Independent Living Share Common Ground May 1, 2025 Read More
IDD Professional in Virginia Champions Growth for Gabriel Homes March 26, 2025 Read More
Ensuring Quality Housing for Adults With IDD at Gabriel Homes February 24, 2025 Read More
Racecar Driving in West Virginia: Cheryl Richardson Preaches Safety January 27, 2025 Read More
New Could Be You! Why You Should Join Our Board of Directors December 18, 2024 Read More
Gabriel Homes Announces Hall of Fame Class of 2024 December 6, 2024 Read More
Young Professionals Revitalize Nonprofit Boards November 25, 2024 Read More
Karen Brings Personal Perspective to Gabriel Homes Board of Directors October 24, 2024 Read More
dddcdFast facts about Memphis:
- Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis launched their careers in Memphis. Elvis first recorded his music in Sun Studio. If you are looking for things to do in Memphis, the studio offers daytime tours.
- The Memphis Pyramid houses the world’s largest Bass Pro Shop. The megastore features an indoor swamp and bowling alley.
- Since the 1930s, ducks march daily through the Peabody Hotel toward its fountain.
One resident’s parents proudly call Memphis home.
Chris (center) is excited for every trip he takes down south, where he sees his dad, Rick (left), and stepmom, Mandy (right). Rick says Memphis has a “small town feeling in a large city” because the people are friendly and relaxed.
“Chris and I were driving around Memphis one day, and he was looking at the city from the window,” Rick says, laughing. “He looked at me and said, ‘Memphis is my kind of city.’ He made me feel happy about where I chose to live.”
So, what’s the family up to when Chris is in town?
Chris’ five favorite things to do in Memphis (in no particular order):
1. Memphis Barbecue:
Memphis’ famous smoky barbecue consists of pork ribs or shoulders. As a neat eater, Chris keeps his mouth clean and plate orderly. But trips with Rick to Central Barbecue leave Chris’ face covered with barbecue sauce. Since having his first meal there, Chris always asks to make time for lunch at Central.
“Central Barbecue may be messy, but it’s the best barbecue in the world. I get the chicken wings because they’re easier to eat than pork.”
Chris
2. Church Community:
Chris has several friends in Memphis through Rick’s parish, the Church of the Holy Communion. Adults with disabilities regularly meet through the Episcopal Diocese of West Tennessee’s Special Friends Fellowship Club. Chris’ favorite events through the club are holiday parties and disco nights.
“When we’re at services, I like the part where they say, ‘Peace be with you.’ The guests shake hands with each other, and I say hi to everyone around me!”
Chris
3. Chef’s Challenge:
Rick, Mandy, and Chris like trying new challenges at home. During one visit, Chris and his dad threw on aprons and chef’s caps and made spaghetti from scratch. Rick and Mandy returned from vacationing in Italy and learned how to make pasta in Florence. The group agreed that making pasta at home would be a fun way to relive memories in Italy and make new ones with family. Chris took cooking classes and did similar food work at his job, so everyone came equipped with some kitchen experience.
“Chris knew exactly what he was doing. Rolling pasta dough was natural for him since he worked with cookie dough at a bakery. The pasta was delicious in the end!”
Mandy
4. Baseball With the Memphis Redbirds:
Enjoying the American Pastime, Rick takes Chris to baseball games when the Memphis Redbirds are in town. Chris has a couple of baseballs signed by Redbirds players. Some of the players who signed his baseballs have become stars for their parent club, the St. Louis Cardinals.
5. Dancing to the Music:
Memphis is famous for blues, soul, and rock and roll, and it’s home to endless live music. Dozens of artists play daily on Beale Street, but Rick and Chris prefer the hole-in-the-wall clubs over the tourist attractions. Listening to the same music but going to smaller crowds, Chris can dance more comfortably to the artists’ rhythms.
“Chris and I are watching the musicians from the bar at one concert,” Rick laughs. “Suddenly, some ladies pull Chris onto the floor, and everyone’s dancing!”
Our residents travel across the country – sometimes the world – on their vacations!
Catch up on our residents’ adventures at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Read More StoriesMore resident spotlights:
Residents Share Favorite Memories with Their Dads June 1, 2025 Read More Family Adventures With Sara, Old and New May 29, 2025 Read More Things to Do in Memphis: Gabriel Homes Edition May 27, 2025 Read More Sunday Routines in NOVA Bring John and His Family Joy May 22, 2025 Read More Community Corner: Extended Families Improve Communities May 16, 2025 Read More Preparing Your Child With IDD (and Yourself) for Independence May 2, 2025 Read More Sundays in Reston With Chris April 24, 2025 Read More Community Corner: Special Olympics Bowling Brings Family & Friends Together April 17, 2025 Read More Second Annual Spring Fling Raises the Roof April 15, 2025 Read More dddcd
Family routines help everyone feel closer, healthier, and more supported.
A 50-year study from the American Psychological Association finds that family rituals can build bonds during life’s lows and highs.
Sunday Routines in NOVA: Gabriel Homes Edition
John, a resident at Gabriel Homes, sees his dad Mark and mom Ellen for their Sunday routines in NOVA from September to March. Their timeline is unchanged, having spent a lifetime of Sundays together, usually dining and bowling. John competed in Special Olympics bowling over 20 years ago, but the league he was in disbanded.
“All of the athletes and parents wanted to keep bowling, so we formed our own league,” Mark said. “Years later, roughly 30 families come to the same alley and play in family bowling every week.”
Before making their way to the lanes, John and Mark stop at the public library. John takes advantage of his membership by checking out DVDs he wants to watch. Shows like “Arthur” and Disney movies regularly play on TV.
“My favorite movie right now is ‘The Lion King. Timon and Pumbaa are funny characters, and the songs and music are amazing.”
John
John (center) had a safari theme for his birthday in January. Residents wore animal masks similar to many of the characters seen in “The Lion King.”
After going to the library, the family eats quick lunches at McDonald’s. John prefers the Big Mac, fries, and soda, but he also enjoys other sandwiches like the Filet-O-Fish. Lunches give the family the energy they need before they bowl.
Everyone in the family bowling league has a connection to the intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) community. The parents and bowlers have been friends for decades by playing together. John shares his lane with the same group of athletes.
“Friends like Alex are nice, and I care about them. When I don’t see them at the alley, I ask the families near me if the guys are all right.” 
John
John bowls underhanded using both hands. Lined at the center of the lane, John rolls the ball between his legs. Mark says John’s average is up 20 points from when he first bowled in the Special Olympics.
“Ellen and I made John a custom ball. The ball doesn’t have holes so John can roll it easily. He walks back smiling when he gets strikes and spares.”
Mark
After bowling, the family finishes their visits at one of their favorite restaurants in Falls Church, Ireland’s Four Provinces. The family has gone to the restaurant for decades since it’s close to Mark’s home. John is familiar and comfortable with the staff. The head bartender knows John well enough to serve him orange sodas at the bar. The restaurant and bar food’s simple pleasures help make their Sundays complete.
“Mark and Ellen are strong advocates for their son. They connect well with John, and their Sundays bring them closer as a family.” 
Kassi Fretty Program Coordinator, Gabriel Homes
During the week, John trains with several residents at IMP Fitness for powerlifting competitions.
Learn more about training sessions with his coaches at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Learn More
dddcd
How Faith Groups Improve Communities and Others’ Lives
People who serve in volunteer leadership roles tend to live happier lives, according to a 2024 study. Many volunteers feel more fulfilled when they feel they can improve their communities.
Leadership at Gabriel Homes
Some Gabriel Homes residents are in leadership roles through the Knights of Columbus: Family of Man Council in Reston. The Knights are active in the Saint John Neumann Catholic Church (SJN) community. Some brothers may help direct parking on holidays, and others, like Rich, are altar servers or ushers during services. Once a month, the Knights hold pancake breakfasts to raise money for charity.
“Everyone embraces the brotherhood of the Knights. When you need help, more brothers show up than needed.”
David Donnelly
Turnout is especially high when brothers hold monthly evening socials.
The Knights say socials keep the brotherhood intact. Guests catch up on each other’s lives and see if they can help someone facing hard times.
“I give Dave and Rich rides to socials since they live nearby,” Jim says. “On one ride, Dave told me he wanted to golf more. He was a yearly golfer at the Gabriel Homes annual golf tournament, and I golfed with a crew from SJN. Because I got to know Dave, I started taking him to Special Olympics golf trainings.”
Residents help serve the brotherhood as elected officers.
As warden, Dave protects the council’s property and supervises the guards. Rich is an inside guard who lets guests into meetings by checking membership cards. Chris (second from right) was in leadership and took part in business meetings for years before stepping down.
“The residents enjoy being leaders and responding to challenges. They deserve recognition for the work they put into the Knights.”
Bob Balog
The brotherhood aims to better the world through its core values:
charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. The “Family of Man” logo on the SJN council’s badges reflects members’ commitment to their families. Members who are parents like David, Jim, and Bob see the Knights as part of their extended family.
“Brothers do good for their families when they form support groups, open up to each other, and pray for others in good and bad times,” Bob says. “The brothers at Gabriel Homes make a difference because they’re involved with our community.”
“All are welcome,” according to SJN’s motto.
See how several residents are involved with the parish outside of the Knights at gabrielhomes.org/stories.
Learn MoreRecent Community Corner Spotlights:
Community Corner: Extended Families Improve Communities May 16, 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 Community Corner: Teambuilding at Why Not Today’s Art Event January 31, 2025 Read More dddcd
Thank You for Your Support!
A year ago, we sent our very first edition of The Treehouse. We never expected how much it would grow and resonate with you. Today, as we celebrate our one-year anniversary in our May 2025 newsletter, we want to take a moment to reflect on this journey and express our gratitude.
Over the past 12 months, we've shared stories about our celebrations, highlighted your impact on our residents, and built a community of engaged readers who care about building independence for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Your support, feedback, and enthusiasm have made this possible!
Spread the Word
Stepping into The Treehouse's second year, we're excited to bring you even more valuable content, insightful stories, and fresh perspectives. If you enjoy our newsletter, we'd love for you to share it with your family, friends, colleagues, or anyone who may find our newsletter valuable. Your support is how our community grows!
Share this article or send this link: Subscribe Here.
Thank you for being part of our journey. Here's to another great year!
Sincerely, 
Lynn Davis Executive Director, Gabriel Homes
Tell us: What's your favorite part of our newsletter?
Email us at info@gabrielhomes.org and let us know!
The Latest: May 2025
Every Sunday Is Special With Chris
Every Sunday, Chris (right) meets his mom (left), his brother, and his brother's girlfriend for lunch. Everyone meets for lunch at Uncle Julio's in Reston, and Chris' eyes widen when the servers deliver his chicken fajitas.
Check out Chris' Sunday adventures
Residents Shine at Second Annual Spring Fling
This year's Spring Fling was bigger and better than ever. Karaoke was the highlight of the night, and residents sang along and danced to every song. But this year's party also featured games like bingo, spin the wheel, and freeze dance! Read about the unforgettable night at gabrielhomes.org.
Gabe's Mom Champions Independence
Gabe (left) has made massive leaps in independence since becoming a resident 30 years ago. His mom Joan (second to right) has reflected on Gabe's journey and growth.
"Gabe has come so far and been able to handle much more responsibility."
Joan
Learn more about Gabe's victories
Follow us on social media to see more pictures of our residents:
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Dave Visits Mom at the American Frontier
After seeing the Kansas City Royals play in Spring Training in Arizona with his brother, Dave traveled to Utah and saw his mom, Barb.
"When the weather was nicer, we went to Antelope Island State Park in Great Salt Lake. The park has a big herd of bison."
Barb
See Dave's adventures
Community Corner
Special Olympics Bowling Brings Families Together
Everyone joins the fun at Special Olympics bowling. Athletes like January (left) and Kari improve each season since rolling for over 25 years.
"The athletes are the reason we’re here," says Laura Cameron, league coordinator and mom of a Special Olympics bowler. "When you’re here, you make new friends and have fun."
Learn how bowling brings us together
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
Michele Bolos and Shalini Kapur
Moving your family member to college and moving to independent homes have more in common than you think.
Michele Bolos (first photo, right) and Shalini Kapur (second photo, left), two members of the Gabriel Homes board of directors, and their families reflect on how they raised their oldest daughters to be independent.
Michele's daughter (first photo, left) will attend High Point University, and Shalini's daughter (second photo, second to left) will play softball at Roanoke College.
Read more about the families' next chapters
Staff Spotlight
Naomi McKeone
Owner of The Handy Ma'am, Naomi (left) helps residents make full use of their living spaces. Naomi suggests new, creative ways residents can store their clothes and decorations.
"Sometimes I have little work to do on their rooms because they’re great at following my suggestions." 
Naomi McKeone Owner, The Handy Ma'am
See how Naomi sets residents up for success
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: May 2025 Newsletter May 2, 2025 Read More
Preparing Your Child With IDD (and Yourself) for Independence May 2, 2025 Read More
College and Independent Living Share Common Ground May 1, 2025 Read More
Sundays in Reston With Chris April 24, 2025 Read More
Professional Organizer Benefits Gabriel Homes April 23, 2025 Read More
Community Corner: Special Olympics Bowling Brings Family & Friends Together April 17, 2025 Read More
College Applications and Independent Living Tours Have Common Ground April 16, 2025 Read More
Second Annual Spring Fling Raises the Roof April 15, 2025 Read More
The Treehouse: April 2025 Newsletter April 7, 2025 Read More
Sites at the American Frontier: Exploring New Mexico and Utah March 31, 2025 Read More
IDD Professional in Virginia Champions Growth for Gabriel Homes March 26, 2025 Read More
Gabriel Homes Celebrates Willie Lemay and His Legacy March 21, 2025 Read More
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Independence for adults with IDD can start from the moment they're born.
Surveys show that 3 in 4 parents encourage their kids aged 5-8 to try independent tasks. According to a 2016 study, parents focus most on independence through teaching social skills if their children have intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD).
Gabriel Homes unlocks the door to independence for adults with IDD in Reston and Herndon.
In January, one resident, Gabe, celebrated 30 years of living at Gabriel Homes. His mom, Joan, reflected on how she prepared her son for independence.
Learn more about our servicesEarly Years
Joan (second from right) and Bob (right), Gabe’s dad, taught Gabe how to care for himself physically. His morning routine was getting up, showering, picking clothes, and dressing himself. As he got older, Gabe added making lunch to the routine.
“We reinforced the same routine with Gabe, and he became comfortable doing it day after day. When Gabe moved to Gabriel Homes, staff understood his routine and let him stick to it.”
Joan
Moving to Gabriel Homes
Gabe started preparing for independence as his parents raised his younger sisters. When home alone, Gabe developed habits like locking the doors or contacting his neighbor for emergencies. Once Gabe became a resident at Gabriel Homes, Joan and Bob understood they wouldn’t be around as much.
Gabe tried other habits little by little while keeping his daily routine intact. Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches were Gabe’s meal of choice, but he added other ingredients to the mix. Since Gabe was active all day, he started snacking during his downtime to reenergize himself.
“Gabe has greatly improved at being independent and managing anxiety. I’ve worked with him on breathing exercises when he’s overwhelmed by large crowds at Reston Town Center. He’s been able to do laundry on his own and can separate light clothes from dark ones. And he can cook a great Hamburger Helper meal!”
Reuben Sidifall
Senior Residential Counselor, Gabriel Homes
Victories Today
Gabe’s favorite time of year is visiting Camp Jaycee, his summer getaway. He goes swimming, rows paddleboats, and plays sports for two weeks of nonstop activity. Gabe says he likes going to Camp Jaycee because he enjoys making new friends outside of Gabriel Homes.
“I come back to Camp Jaycee every year because it’s the best place in the world. The nature walks and dancing are the most fun because I don’t get to do them every day.”
Gabe
Gabriel Homes Resident
Gabe may live away from his parents, but he enjoys quality time with his mom. The two specifically spend time outside or at the movies together. When he sees the whole family, Gabe watches his sisters’ kids, who like running around and playing video games with him.
“Gabe is a grown man,” said Joan. “He has come so far and been able to handle more responsibility. Large crowds can be overwhelming, but he’s much more outgoing with his friends, family, sisters, nephews, and niece than ever.”
Another resident, Caryn (right), also celebrated 30 years as a resident in February!
Read about her favorite memories at Gabriel Homes at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Learn MoreMore resident spotlights:
Preparing Your Child With IDD (and Yourself) for Independence May 2, 2025 Read More Sundays in Reston With Chris April 24, 2025 Read More Community Corner: Special Olympics Bowling Brings Family & Friends Together April 17, 2025 Read More Second Annual Spring Fling Raises the Roof April 15, 2025 Read More Sites at the American Frontier: Exploring New Mexico and Utah March 31, 2025 Read More Gabriel Homes Residents Welcome Spring with Fresh Styles March 20, 2025 Read More Community Corner: The Physical and Mental Benefits of Bowling February 28, 2025 Read More Social Workers Spotlight Mental Health for Adults With IDD February 26, 2025 Read More Exercise Builds Independence for Adults With IDD February 20, 2025 Read More Caryn Marks 30 Years of Residence at Gabriel Homes February 18, 2025 Read More dddcd
College and Independent Living: What They Have in Common
There’s more in common than you think when you send your child off to college or independent homes. Future students and residents have applications, tours, and move-ins before they start living on their own. Families similarly grapple with emotional rollercoasters from a different lens: becoming empty nesters.
Michele Bolos and Shalini Kapur...
... two members of the Gabriel Homes Board of Directors, and their husbands are sending their oldest kids to college for the first time. As their daughters prepare for independence away from home, the parents are reflecting on raising their kids for this moment. Michele and Chris’ daughter is enrolling at High Point University in North Carolina, and Shalini and Charles’ daughter is attending Roanoke College where she will also play softball.
“My girls were independent at early ages because everything was available to them. They could reach for a small milk container in the fridge and pour it with cereal. Their cups, plates, and utensils were low so they could set the table. The girls made their lunches at the counter on footstools!”
Michele Bolos
Chair, Gabriel Homes Board of Directors
Starting Transitions to College and Independent Living:
Michele believes incoming undergrads and residents can be independent when they have safe spaces to learn, fail, and grow. The dignity of risk is a person’s right to make choices and become smarter through their mistakes. A 2011 study finds that looking for personal strengths, weighing the outcomes, and planning for risks lead to more confidence and independence.
“Learning through errors is the best teacher for any person. Failure during sports, like being at the bottom of the lineup, teaches life skills like resilience and hard work.”
Shalini Kapur
Director, Development Committee, Gabriel Homes Board of Directors
Shalini’s daughter learned about independence early on when she started traveling for softball.
Being away from home taught her to advocate for herself and form friendships on her own. She knew she wanted to play softball for undergrad, but Roanoke College stressed that academics came before sports.
“My daughter came this far by going with her gut and making the right decisions. She’ll succeed in college because she’s seen many personalities and has made smart decisions in all stages of her life.”
Shalini Kapur
Michele says independence is ongoing from the time children are born.
From holding bottles to walking to driving, kids learn independence throughout their lives. To Michele, children’s victories build on top of each other to develop into the big day: moving out and starting the next chapter of their lives as adults.
“When my oldest joined Gabriel Homes and when my youngest went to college, I knew they would be all right,” says one parent of a resident. “I couldn’t control their situations any longer, but them being on their own was the best possible result. My kids became successful in their own ways.”
Like yourself, residents at Gabriel Homes have ongoing independent journeys.
Read about breakthroughs large and small every week at gabrielhomes.org/stories.
Catch the Latest & GreatestMore Board spotlights:
College and Independent Living Share Common Ground May 1, 2025 Read More College Applications and Independent Living Tours Have Common Ground April 16, 2025 Read More IDD Professional in Virginia Champions Growth for Gabriel Homes March 26, 2025 Read More Ensuring Quality Housing for Adults With IDD at Gabriel Homes February 24, 2025 Read More Racecar Driving in West Virginia: Cheryl Richardson Preaches Safety January 27, 2025 Read More New Could Be You! Why You Should Join Our Board of Directors December 18, 2024 Read More dddcdStudies show people who spend lots of time with family can have higher life expectancies.
Catching up and having strong support systems with family can provide a sense of belonging, which is critical for keeping mental health in shape.
Sundays in Reston
One resident at Gabriel Homes, Chris, is a social butterfly when he’s home with his housemates. There’s plenty of activity during the week since Chris works and powerlifts. But he holds true to his ritual every Sunday afternoon, where he meets with his mom and brother for lunch.
“We do lunch at Uncle Julio’s, and Chris gets chicken fajitas every time. The restaurant is a great hangout place for us, and we love watching the Reston-Herndon area grow over the years.”
Jackie, Chris’ Mom
Family outings are a lifelong tradition for Chris and his brother (right).
The family did Friday outings when the boys were younger. When the brothers moved out, Sundays fit everyone’s schedules best. Chris’ brother’s girlfriend became a regular addition to the group when the pair started dating, and she brought extra fun and conversation to Sunday lunches.
“Sundays with my family are the highlight of mine and my girlfriend’s weeks,” Chris’ brother says. “They’re full of jubilance and laughs, and we love being in each other’s presence before the hard workweeks.”
The group likes talking about music and movies they’ve seen.
Residents make trips to the movies with their housemates at University Mall. When they have their Sundays in Reston lunches, Chris and Jackie play trivia flashcard games on his favorite movies. One card reads, “Who are Harry Potter’s best friends?” and Chris answers, “Ron and Hermione!”
“My favorite movie right now is The Little Mermaid because the songs are great and Ariel is really nice,” Chris says. “I also like the Home Alone movies, Dennis the Menace, and Jurassic Park.”
When everyone’s ready to head their separate ways...
... Chris often asks Jackie to play music in the car. Chris tends to be a man of few words, but he belts every lyric when there’s music.
“There’s lots of freedom and expression in music, and Chris strings so many thoughts together when he sings. We sing Christmas carols during the holidays and campfire songs in the summer. Chris’ childhood favorite songs, like ones from Mary Poppins, play the most in the car.” Jackie
Did you know Chris won the bronze medal in the Special Olympics USA games?
See how Chris trained for the competition and exceeded expectations in a WJLA news spotlight. More on Chris
More sports spotlights at Gabriel Homes:
Community Corner: Special Olympics Bowling Brings Family & Friends Together April 17, 2025 Read More
Community Corner: The Physical and Mental Benefits of Bowling February 28, 2025 Read More
Special Olympics Powerlifting Champions Return to Practice December 19, 2024 Read More
Community Corner: Special Olympics Coaches’ Impact December 1, 2024 Read More
Young Professionals Revitalize Nonprofit Boards November 25, 2024 Read More
Special Olympics Soccer Shines With January November 7, 2024 Read More
Gabriel Homes Powerlifters Pull a Plane at Dulles Airport October 4, 2024 Read More
Gabriel Homes Forecasts the 2024 NFL Season September 12, 2024 Read More
Board Member and Golf Enthusiast September 5, 2024 Read More