Family reunions are relaxing breaks from the mundane and carry on for generations.
Family members can be less socially anxious when they take part in rituals like reunions.
Patrick’s family reunion in South Carolina
Patrick, a resident at Gabriel Homes, attended a family reunion in June in South Carolina with over 30 relatives from across the country. Reunions started for the family in the 1990s, hosted by Patrick’s grandparents, and have been held every several years since.
“Seeing the whole family is great because they care for and love me. Everyone is so kind and fun when we get together and hang out. I love my family, too.” 
Patrick Gabriel Homes Resident 
All Hands on Deck
Different family groups planned parts of the week-long itinerary, which included activities like watching the minor league team Charleston RiverDogs and holding a wine tasting.
“We started planning for South Carolina in the fall,” said Todd, Patrick’s dad. “Our email thread and Google surveys were critical for pulling this thing off.”
Beach Games Galore
Each of the families had rentals right by the beach. With perfect weather nearly every day, many from Patrick’s family enjoyed the sand and sea breeze each morning. Patrick spent most of his time on the coast playing one of his favorite sports, bocce.
“You roll balls and try to get them as close as possible to a smaller target ball in bocce,” Patrick said. “Hitting the target ball is easy when I play. The family got jealous that I kept beating them!”
Patrick
Those who liked competing also got together on the local golf course during the latter half of the trip.
A stellar putter, Patrick helped golfers stay below par with his signature Pat Putts. Patrick took pride in golfing with his family since he got a putter last Christmas.
The highlight of the trip was when the family held trivia night. Everyone who attended secretly shared one fun fact about themselves. Everyone had to match each name with the correct factoid and try to get as many correct as possible.
Champion of Champions
The highest scorer matched nine names and facts correctly, but nobody matched Patrick’s factoid. He flexed his muscles as he revealed he was a gold medal powerlifter.
“Everyone was cheering for Patrick when we learned he was a weightlifting champion. All the answers were funny and unique, and we loved hearing the longer stories behind the brief facts.”
Peter, Patrick’s Uncle
At Gabriel Homes, many of our residents take breaks from their routines and go on adventures with friends and family.
Catch up on some of our residents’ latest travels at gabrielhomes.org/stories. See all the latest
More interests at Gabriel Homes:
Camp Jaycee Shines Over Our Residents’ Summers July 17, 2025 Read More
Living on the Beach: Joe’s Sunny Vacations in South Carolina and Delaware July 9, 2025 Read More
Five Ways Financial Independence Can Empower Adults With IDD July 2, 2025 Read More
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Moving into your cabin at sleepaway camp is like moving into your college dorm.
You’re away from your parents for a stretch of time, and the first nights may feel scary. But once you head back home, you wish you were back at camp!
The Joy of Camp Jaycee
Every July and August, many of our residents pack their bags for Camp Jaycee. The two-week program has constant activities. Itineraries each day are as diverse as each camper’s interests.
“I go to Camp Jaycee every year because it’s the best place in the world,” says Gabe, a resident at Gabriel Homes. “Activities like the pool, nature walks, and dancing are fun because I don’t get to do them every day. Everyone should try sleepaway camp at least once!”
Camp Jaycee Highlights
Residents who love animals say their favorite part of camp is horseback riding. Sam and Chris say the horses feel fast at first, but they quickly get used to the speed. John G. likes how far the horses trot because he can see more of the camp without walking.
To cool off, some residents enjoy Camp Jaycee’s pool the most. The residents’ favorite part of the pool is the diving board. Residents who go to Jaycee say they don’t often use the diving boards at nearby pools, so some try to jump as much as possible at camp.
“Jumping is scary the first time you do it, but you want to get back on it as soon as you swim in the water. Remember to hold your nose and close your mouth when you jump off the diving board!”
Shelby, Gabriel Homes Resident
Music Nights
John H. and Rich are two residents who prefer singing to swimming at Camp Jaycee. Their favorite part of camp is the talent show. John H. says he spends weeks deciding which song to sing. Once he’s called to the stage, John H. jokes he often forgets his song and asks to sing along to ABBA.
Caryn, another admirer of the arts, brightens her home with her artwork.
Often painting, she likes tie-dying shirts at camp. Caryn adds lots of colors to existing shirts and lets them soak in the paint. When she moves from blue to purple dye, she twists and turns the shirt so the colors don’t overlap. Rainbows appear on many of her tie-dyed clothes once she finishes.
“The best days at camp are when it’s warm in the day and chilly at night,” Caryn says. “Camp Jaycee holds a fireworks show on one special night at camp. The sparks in the sky are beautiful. I like the ‘bang bang’ noises the fireworks make.”
Also during this summer, residents at Gabriel Homes celebrated their independence.
You can read all about it in July’s edition of our monthly newsletter, The Treehouse! See the July 2025 NewsletterThe latest at Gabriel Homes:
The Treehouse: August 2025 Newsletter August 6, 2025 Read More Special Olympics Softball in Loudoun: Rich’s Risky Move Pays Off July 31, 2025 Read More Spontaneous Thinking Sparks the Best Events July 29, 2025 Read More Patrick’s Family Reunion in South Carolina July 23, 2025 Read More Camp Jaycee Shines Over Our Residents’ Summers July 17, 2025 Read More Living on the Beach: Joe’s Sunny Vacations in South Carolina and Delaware July 9, 2025 Read More Residents Celebrate Independence on July 4, 2025 July 7, 2025 Read More The Treehouse: July 2025 Newsletter July 7, 2025 Read More Lucy: A Beacon of Independence at Gabriel Homes July 4, 2025 Read More dddcdThere’s something about the beach that calms the mind.
Living by the ocean has been linked to lower stress and improved mental health. The waves’ rhythms soothe the body, and the open horizon offers a sense of peace you can’t find elsewhere.
The beach holds a special place in Joe’s heart.
Years before moving Gabriel Homes, Joe went on beach vacations along the Atlantic Coast with his family. Long days in the sun are some of Joe’s fondest early memories. Today, his mom and stepdad, Patti and Ken, live by the South Carolina coast; his dad and stepmom, Rick and Pat, lives a half mile from the Delaware shores.
“Our grandparents lived in Cape Cod, so we made lots of beach trips north to see them,” says Stephanie, Joe’s sister. “When we traveled south, we went to beaches in Maryland and North Carolina.”
Joe takes in the weather and scenery when he steps foot on the beach. Sometimes, he’s in the water before the first beach chair hits the sand. The cold morning water doesn’t matter to Joe: He heads to where the water reaches his waist, then looks out at the horizon.
“The water feels cold at first, but it warms up pretty quickly. I like seeing all the boats sailing and planes flying past me.” 
Joe Gabriel Homes Resident
Down South: South Carolina
When Joe and Stephanie see their mom in South Carolina, Joe gets a T-shirt from the local shop en route to the shore. Joe often drags Patti and Ken into the water, even when it’s frigid. When the parents are back in their beach chairs, Joe relaxes alone in the water. He likes waving to his parents and humming tunes to himself.
“Joe and Stephanie’s visits are their peaceful retreats from the routine. Ken and I get water, sun, and waves all year long in South Carolina. There’s nothing like the beach.”
Patti, Joe’s Mom
When the family’s home in the evening, they use the Olympic-sized pool in their neighborhood. The neighbors play music from the 1950s to the 80s by the pool deck. Joe has a knack for knowing the year of release and artist of every song from that era. Patti’s neighbor likes challenging Joe’s knowledge with obscure songs, but Joe has a near-perfect guessing rate.
“The neighborhood does summertime concerts by the pool, so evenings are a win-win for Joe. He’s in the water dancing with friends to the rock ‘n’ roll he grew up with.”
Ken, Joe’s Stepdad
Up North: Delaware
When school is back in session, Joe and Stephanie make their way to Delaware. The water is warm from the summer heat, and the half-mile boardwalk has smaller crowds. Local spots stay open during the offseason, which means the family can enjoy restaurants without long waits. Joe’s favorite tradition is having fried shrimp for dinner, and he always says yes to his meal of choice, burgers.
Everyone’s up and moving again once the plates are cleared. On rainy days, the family goes to the movies or bowling alley. Mini golf is Joe’s top outdoor activity when the weather is clear. Joe has a keen eye for the ball and putts at least one hole-in-one on the course.
“The last time Joe was here, he hit several holes-in-one in a row. Once he learns a sport, he gives it his all.”
Rick, Joe’s Dad
The years go by...
... but the parents say Joe feels the same happiness on the beach as he felt on his first trip.
“The beach is our favorite pastime,” Stephanie says. “Joe and I spent every summer by the ocean growing up. Coming back to the beach and seeing family feels like we’ve come full circle.”
The May and June 2025 editions of our monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, feature some of the moms and dads of our residents.
Sign up for our newsletter at gabrielhomes.org and share our stories with friends and family.
The latest stories from Gabriel Homes:
Lucy: A Beacon of Independence at Gabriel Homes July 4, 2025 Read More
Five Ways Financial Independence Can Empower Adults With IDD July 2, 2025 Read More
Living on the Beach: Joe’s Sunny Vacations in South Carolina and Delaware July 1, 2025 Read More
Registration Opens for Gabriel Homes 30th Annual Golf Tournament July 1, 2025 Read More
Ruth Cook Announces Retirement from Gabriel Homes June 30, 2025 Read More
Four Residents Celebrate 30 Years Living at Gabriel Homes June 24, 2025 Read More
Special Education Advocate in Virginia Emphasizes Independence June 18, 2025 Read More
Community Corner: Adults With IDD Go the Extra Mile in Independence June 12, 2025 Read More
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
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Gabriel Homes residents celebrated independence on July 4, 2025.
July 4, 2025 was a day of reflecting on and celebrating independence. At Gabriel Homes, our residents take pride in being independent every day.
Independence Day at Gabriel Homes
Residents came together at one of the homes for sparklers and barbecue. Program coordinators Kassi Fretty, Naomi Pariona (second photo, left), and Daniel Borges (second photo, right) collaborated on getting the supplies and cooking the food. Both said the day was rewarding and fun when they saw the sparklers light up in front of the residents’ eyes.
Sam (first photo) looked enamored when he was holding the sparkler. His reactions brought me so much joy.
Naomi Pariona, Program Coordinator, Gabriel Homes
See more photos of our residents celebrating Independence Day:
Gabriel Homes ensured residents were holding sparklers safely and securely.
If you plan to keep the Independence Day celebrations going, The American Pyrotechnics Association has more information on sparklers safety.
Learn More External Link dddcd
The July 2025 edition of our newsletter, The Treehouse, celebrates Gabriel Homes fostering independence for our residents.
Our residents thrive in our community independently and on their terms. The July 2025 edition of our monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, highlights our residents being model citizens of Reston and Herndon in their independence.
The Latest:
Four Residents Celebrate 30 Years Living at Gabriel Homes
Four residents, Caryn, Shelby, Sean, and Gabe (pictured in order), are celebrating 30 years living at Gabriel Homes this year! The quartet might have moved in around the same time, but they have vastly different stories of independence, growth, and triumph.
Read from residents and staff on their journeys at gabrielhomes.org.
Learn More
Residents Dominate Special Olympics States Powerlifting Tournament
Gabriel Homes residents who train in Special Olympics powerlifting crushed the competition with their results June’s states tournament. Everyone who competed walked away with first- or second place medals in their weight classes.
Want to see the results? See how everyone placed at gabrielhomes.org.
More highlights from the tournament:
Registration Opens for 30th Annual Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament
Register individually or as a team. Golfers of all skill levels are welcome. Proceeds benefit services like events and home renovations so residents can focus on building their independence and achieving their dreams.
Read the Full Press Release
Follow us for updates every week on social media:
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Lucy: A Beacon of Independence
Lucy is a leader for her housemates and Gabriel Homes. She knows her routine like the back of her hand and holds others accountable for plans. Many tasks are second nature for Lucy, who can do several without on-site support.
Check out a day in the life of Lucy
5 Ways Financial Independence Empowers Adults With IDD
Our residents take pride spending their paychecks on their favorite clubs and hobbies. See five ways financial independence can empower adults of all abilities at gabrielhomes.org.
“Every Saturday, I head to the movies. Weekends are a nice time to kick my feet up and watch a good show.”
-Rich (right), Gabriel Homes Resident
Community Corner:
Residents Go the Extra Mile in Independence
Since our residents joined Gabriel Homes, they achieved more than they could dream. Many parents speak with pride on their children’s independence.
Flying feels like a huge accomplishment for Chris (first photo). When he gets off the plane, I see him smiling like crazy.
Rick, Chris’ Father
See how parents cheer on our residents
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
Special Education Advocate Spotlights Independence
One of our newest board members, Kendall Heren, has worked in Special Education for nearly 15 years. With her experience working in individual education plans, Kendall helps identify goals for families and educators that set students up for success.
“I remind everyone that we are here for the students so they have the best plan to become independent adults.”
-Kendall Heren
Learn about Kendall’s insights on independence
Staff Spotlight:
Ruth Cook Announces Upcoming Retirement
Ruth (left) took pride in keeping the books and making the world a better place. She enjoyed her independence and felt empowered in her position. Each day was special when staff and residents said hi at her office.
“I will always be grateful that I worked here.”
-Ruth Cook
Read about Ruth and her accomplishments
Upcoming Dates:
![September 15 - 30th Annual Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament. [Posted for Gabriel Homes' monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, July 2025 edition] Secure your spot before it's too late! Click this image to register.](https://www.gabrielhomes.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/2025.07-upcoming-dates-1024x379.png)
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:
Living on the Beach: Joe’s Sunny Vacations in South Carolina and Delaware July 9, 2025 Read More
Lucy: A Beacon of Independence at Gabriel Homes July 4, 2025 Read More
The Treehouse: July 2025 Newsletter July 2, 2025 Read More
Five Ways Financial Independence Can Empower Adults With IDD July 2, 2025 Read More
Registration Opens for Gabriel Homes 30th Annual Golf Tournament July 1, 2025 Read More
Ruth Cook Announces Retirement from Gabriel Homes June 30, 2025 Read More
Four Residents Celebrate 30 Years Living at Gabriel Homes June 24, 2025 Read More
Special Education Advocate in Virginia Emphasizes Independence June 18, 2025 Read More
Community Corner: Adults With IDD Go the Extra Mile in Independence June 12, 2025 Read More
The Treehouse: June 2025 Newsletter June 2, 2025 Read More
Residents Share Favorite Memories with Their Dads June 1, 2025 Read More
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Daily routines might seem meaningless at first.
On one hand, doing the same tasks every day can feel like a chore; on the other, you can find purpose in yourself when you accomplish your to-do list.
Lucy has lived independently at Gabriel Homes since 2009 and is a leader for her housemates. She knows her daily routine like the back of her hand and holds friends and staff accountable for plans. Other occasional tasks like dentist appointments are second nature to Lucy, who can handle many things without on-site support.
“Lucy is on top of everything with her schedule. Our on-call line knows they can rely on her to reach out and share where she’s headed.” 
Naomi Pariona Gabriel Homes Program Coordinator
Her job at the United States Geological Survey (USGS) is a 10-minute bus ride or one-mile walk from her home. Working as an office cleaner through Goodwill Greater Washington for 15 years, Lucy often takes charge of cleaning routes. She folds her rag into perfect squares before cleaning surfaces, and she can clean the office cafeteria in under 30 minutes.
“There aren’t enough workers like Lucy. Her work ethic and productivity are top-notch, and she’s great at going the extra mile with cleaning.”
Kim Gladney, Lucy’s Boss & Project Manager at Goodwill Greater Washington
When her shift is over, Lucy rides the bus back home and takes a short nap. On Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons, Lucy goes on walks with her neighbors, John and Rich. She lives down the street from the guys, who quickly jump into action when she tells them to grab their shoes. Walks are about a mile and a half long, and Lucy tends to pull ahead of the pack. Lucy waits at different traffic signs so John and Rich can catch up to her.
“Sometimes we feel too lazy to walk, but Lucy is good at motivating us. Friends keep each other on track so that we walk again tomorrow!” 
Rich Gabriel Homes Resident
Her housemates get home later in the evening because they have longer commutes. Everyone spends some time alone in their rooms, unwinding after work, before joining for dinner. The housemate who cooks rotates each evening. When Lucy takes the chef’s hat, she prepares the fan-favorite spaghetti with meatballs and vegetables served with a salad.
“I’m better at cooking since moving to Gabriel Homes. Staff like Jackie can be a big help, but I like making spaghetti on my own. Cooking is a nice, easy way to end the day.” 
Lucy Gabriel Homes Resident
Among residents like Lucy, no two days are the same at Gabriel Homes.
Different jobs and interests mean there are endless stories of independence. If you’re thinking about becoming a resident at Gabriel Homes, see what a day in the life might look like and think about how yours may differ.
More resident spotlights at Gabriel Homes:
Five Ways Financial Independence Can Empower Adults With IDD July 2, 2025 Read More
Lucy: A Beacon of Independence at Gabriel Homes July 1, 2025 Read More
Four Residents Celebrate 30 Years Living at Gabriel Homes June 24, 2025 Read More
Community Corner: Adults With IDD Go the Extra Mile in Independence June 12, 2025 Read More
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
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Financial independence, the transition to adulthood for many including adults with IDD, is possibly the greatest stepping stone to self-sufficiency.
Did you know it can also be the difference-maker for your safety?
Many adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) work with trusted guardians and friends on supported decision-making, the process of advising but not forcing choices. When adults with IDD use supported decision-making for financial independence, they are more likely to be safer from scams and have greater self-determination.
“Financial independence is one piece of the independence puzzle. Your independence opens your potential to handle other tasks more easily, like personal shopping or paying bills.”
Alicia Liddle, Relationship Manager at Northwest Federal Credit Union (NWFCU); sister of Amanda, who has an IDD
Quality of life benefits go beyond dollars and cents. See five ways financial independence can empower adults with IDD, including our residents:
1. You can start slowly with financial independence.
Parents and Gabriel Homes staff slowly introduced tasks to residents’ routines. Some adults with IDD may be more regimented, so their trusted group starts by explaining the benefits and risks of financial independence. Budgeting and spending are taught the same as cooking or doing laundry — one step at a time.
“Our mom convinced Amanda over a long time to move her cash onto one card. NWFCU had a $400 deposit special when members opened a new account, so Amanda was excited about using the money to visit her family out of state. Today, she feels pride putting her paychecks into her bank account and managing her balance.”
Alicia Liddle
2. Learning Medicaid requirements can show you where to save and how to spend.
Medicaid recipients need to stay below $2,000 in assets to continue receiving benefits. Limits are in place because Medicaid is a needs-based program. For greater financial independence, adults with IDD can open special needs trusts and ABLE accounts to save and manage expenses.
“Virginia has different paths to financial independence for adults with IDD on Medicaid as opposed to other states. Someone could lose coverage if their parents died and Social Security Disability insurance put them over the asset limit. Fortunately, we helped pass a law in 2024 where recipients could keep their benefits regardless of the insurance payments.”
Lucy Beadnell, Director of Advocacy, The Arc of NOVA
3. Building a trusted team can teach you how you can be smart with your spending.
You rely on doctors for advice at medical appointments. Advice for financial independence is no different. The nature of some people’s disabilities may mean they have difficulty knowing where to start and whom to trust with money. Adults with IDD who work with family, financial planners, and legal experts can empower everyone to spend with confidence. Our residents save for movie nights and club dues, and they’re diligent about being wise with their paychecks.
Rich D.
Gabriel Homes Resident
“Saving money for fun things outside of work is rewarding. My hard-earned cash goes toward my bowling league and the Knights of Columbus. I feel proud that I can have extra responsibility and treat myself because I know I can have fun without my family’s help.”
Dave
Gabriel Homes Resident
4. Financial independence is ongoing and educational.
There’s a sense of freedom when you make your first purchase using your first bank account. Then come the changes in your budget. Adults with IDD who budget for monthly and personal expenses face many of the same changes. Budgets, for example, may adjust based on new jobs or rising costs. Financial independence grows with change, and you build it with experience.
“Everyone, including adults with IDD, faces challenges and changes, and our finances go along for the ride. You may achieve your goals at different speeds, but you feel peace in making empowered choices to reach them.”
Chris Greenhill, NWFCU Private Relationship Manager
5. Don’t give in to fear.
Lucy says many families fear someone might exploit their children’s finances. Many adults with IDD may have less freedom with their money if accounts have limits. On the other hand, other adults with IDD manage every cent and are afraid to spend it.
“Financial restrictions can feel disempowering. Someone with IDD may like traveling, so saving for vacations can feel important to them. Having clear plans on how to save and spend ultimately creates a safer environment for everyone.”
Lucy Beadnell
At Gabriel Homes, many residents save their money for birthday parties. Staff help pick up the food and decorations, but residents cover the cost. Friends enjoy marking birthdays on their calendars, and residents light up when the party arrives.
“I had the best birthday ever last year. We ate Chinese food, danced to ABBA, and opened a piñata with candy inside it. Then we had my favorite dessert: Snickers cheesecake!”
Rich R.
Gabriel Homes Resident
Learn more...
The Arc of NOVA’s webinar, “Empowered Budgeting: Practical Strategies for Financial Independence,” shares how you can smartly manage money hosted by budgeting experts from NWFCU. See the full webinar on YouTube.
Click Here dddcd
Register Today!
Reston, Va. — Gabriel Homes, a leading housing provider for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), is opening registrations for the 30th annual golf tournament. The tournament tees off September 15 at 10 a.m. at Evergreen Country Club in Haymarket, Va. The much-anticipated event joins the community to support Gabriel Homes and raise funds for their high-quality services.
Secure Your Spot External LinkIn celebration of golfing for 30 years, Gabriel Homes promises this tournament to be the biggest and best to date. Golfers can enjoy 18 holes and breathtaking scenery within the Bull Run Mountains. Those who want to press their luck for prizes can also try skill challenges on the course or enter prize and 50-50 raffles.
“We’re excited to celebrate 30 years of compassion and competition. Our tournament is special because of our community’s passion for our residents. Since our first tournament, Gabriel Homes has been proud to celebrate the meaningful relationships among our golfers, residents, staff, board, and volunteers.”
Lynn Davis
Executive Director, Gabriel Homes
Golfers of all skill levels are welcome. Participants can register individually or as a team. Proceeds benefit services like events and home renovations so residents can focus on building their independence and achieving their dreams. Attendees 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:
Paul Gallagher All Saints Catholic Church The Anderson Company B&B Signal Catholic Diocese of Arlington Nativity Catholic Church NT Concepts, Inc.Secure your spot at the 30th Annual Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament at signupgenius.com.
Contact info@gabrielhomes.org if you’re interested in sponsoring the event or volunteering. Register Today dddcd
Congrats, Ruth!
Ruth Cook, bookkeeper at Gabriel Homes, announces her retirement after seven years of service. Her retirement starts at the end of September.
During her tenure, Ruth developed easy-to-understand payment tracking systems using spreadsheets. When Gabriel Homes started receiving funds through Medicaid Waiver, Ruth helped with recording the state’s payments. Since eligibility for Medicaid had different requirements from the county, Ruth helped residents and their families monitor bank balances.
“The numbers show the story of what Gabriel Homes is like!”
Ruth Cook, Bookkeeper, Gabriel Homes
Ruth applied for the bookkeeper role after reconnecting with Executive Director Lynn Davis. Lynn’s husband worked with Ruth in the past and knew her to be a trusted worker. Lynn’s trust proved well-placed. During audits, Ruth’s sharp filing, accounting, and attention to detail helped Lynn quickly locate records.
“Gabriel Homes is entrusted with using funds responsibly. Ruth and I balance each other by being detailed with our records and fixing mistakes along the way.”
Lynn Davis
Executive Director, Gabriel Homes
Reconciliations, the process of matching bank statements with company cash records, were Ruth’s favorite monthly tasks. Ruth found comfort in seeing patterns between receipts and reports. But seeing missing expenses or figures that didn’t add up was frustrating. For peace of mind, she stayed diligent about reconciling numbers as soon as the month was over.
“I’ve seen Gabriel Homes’ progress in investing and planning forward. The team works hard to grow, and I’m proud to work on the financial reports they show at presentations.”
Ruth Cook, Bookkeeper, Gabriel Homes
Legacy Beyond Numbers
Ruth took pride in keeping the books and making the world a better place. She enjoyed her independence and felt empowered in her position. Shifts were routine, but each day was special when staff and residents said hi at her office.
“I’m going to miss my good friend,” says Rich (right), a resident at Gabriel Homes. “Some mornings, Ruth shares funny stories over coffee. She has such a great smile and laugh. I wish her all the best in her retirement.”
What’s Next?
Ruth Cook is keeping her options open for her next chapter following Gabriel Homes. Joining her church book club, Ruth’s short-term goal is to read more. In the long term, Ruth wants to travel the country with her husband and learn to watercolor paint.
“I will always be grateful that I worked here. The past seven years were full of the happiest work memories I ever had. I am so happy I can retire while I’m on top.”
Ruth Cook
Bookkeeper, Gabriel Homes
If you think working at Gabriel Homes sounds fun, stay on the lookout for any open positions.
Learn more at gabrielhomes.org/careers. Apply TodayMore News at Gabriel Homes:
Registration Opens for Gabriel Homes 30th Annual Golf Tournament July 1, 2025 Read More Ruth Cook Announces Retirement from Gabriel Homes June 30, 2025 Read More Gabriel Homes Residents Dominate Special Olympics States Powerlifting Tournament Results June 20, 2025 Read More The Treehouse: June 2025 Newsletter June 2, 2025 Read More The Treehouse: May 2025 Newsletter May 5, 2025 Read More Second Annual Spring Fling Raises the Roof April 15, 2025 Read More dddcd
Residents at Gabriel Homes take pride in their journeys toward independence.
Independence continues for years at Gabriel Homes.
Many of the residents’ stories at Gabriel Homes have lasted decades at our homes in Reston and Herndon. On average, residents have called us home for over 22 years, nearly double the usual length of U.S. homeownership.
Four residents, Caryn, Shelby, Sean, and Gabe, are celebrating 30 years of living at Gabriel Homes this year! The quartet might have moved in around the same time, but they have vastly different stories of independence, growth, and triumph.
First-hand account of our residents' growth years later:
Reuben Sidifall, senior residential counselor at Gabriel Homes, joined the staff in 1997; Beth Hoyos, director of quality improvement and clinical oversight at Gabriel Homes, started in 1998. The residents may have lived independently at Gabriel Homes three years before Reuben and Beth's start dates, but few other staff have been able to see them grow into the confident decision-makers they are today.
“I’ve seen Caryn, Shelby, Sean, and Gabe grow and develop into independent adults. Their success has motivated me to help accomplish Gabriel Homes’ mission.” 
Reuben Sidifall Senior Residential Counselor, Gabriel Homes
Shoutout to Shelby!
“I’m happy here for 30 years. I work hard every day, and I save money for special trips and events. My friends and I celebrated my birthday in June, and I bought KFC for everybody. Caryn, Patrick, John, Sara, and Chris are great housemates. We get along well and are respectful of each other’s personal spaces.”
Shelby
“Shelby brought a breath of fresh air with her musical talents and sweet personality 30 years ago. Today, her loving outlook is unchanged. She’ll always remind you what holiday is coming up and what color you should wear that day. Watching Shelby make independent choices that lead her to her goals is what makes my job feel so rewarding.”
Beth Hoyos
Cheers to Caryn!
“The past 30 years have been amazing. Shelby and I moved in at the same time, and we’ve become best friends who understand each other. I’ve gotten much better at cooking, and I can now make delicious pasta – ask John!
Caryn
“I’m also a more talented artist. I like making flags using red, white, and blue construction paper. You can see lots of my work around home!”
“Caryn was determined to live on her terms when she moved to Gabriel Homes. In 30 years, she’s learned to speak up for herself and her friends. Caryn leads by example by handling her housework and other personal tasks independently. If you see her, ask her to teach you sign language!”
Beth Hoyos
Salute to Sean!
“Thirty years can come and go. I do more with the residents than ever, from adult social club to Special Olympics and movie nights. When I make dinner on Men’s Night, the guys like my sandwiches and tomato soup. The staff are great, too. They spend so much time driving us for trips and getting to know us better.”
Sean
“Sean perfectly reflects our mission by living a full, independent life. Since moving to Gabriel Homes, he’s become a leader for his housemates. Sean holds staff and residents accountable for being on time and having their essentials before leaving home. He’s grown so much over time, and he hasn’t planned to stop learning!”
Beth Hoyos
Give It up for Gabe!
“I’ve liked living here for 30 years. When I get home from work, I watch the Washington Nationals or Baltimore Orioles on the basement TV. I’m now much better at fixing the TV if it’s not showing anything. When I cook dinner, my housemates really like my Hamburger Helper. Reuben is a big help in the kitchen!”
Gabe
“Gabe has greatly improved at being independent and managing his anxiety. I’ve worked with him on breathing exercises when he’s gotten overwhelmed at large crowds. He’s been able to do laundry on his own and is great at separating the light clothes from dark ones. And he can cook a great Hamburger Helper meal!”
Reuben Sidifall
Gabriel Homes keeps its homes in tip-top shape to protect our residents and meet changing needs.
See our success stories working with trusted housing partners at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Check out more stories
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Community Corner: Extended Families Improve Communities May 16, 2025 Read More
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Sites at the American Frontier: Exploring New Mexico and Utah March 31, 2025 Read More