Gabriel Homes is a finalist for Reston Nonprofit of the Year for the 2026 Awards for Chamber Excellence (ACE).
Hosted annually by the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce (GRCC), the 2026 ACE Awards honor Reston’s most innovative and impactful organizations. GRCC members nominate and vote across categories, including businesses, entrepreneurs, committees, and nonprofits.
The Greater Picture:
When staff began gathering Gabriel Homes’ 2025 accomplishments, they were shocked by the numbers. The work, promoting independence and self-advocacy for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), was the same. The data revealed a different story: that ordinary routines quietly added up to thousands of hours of care.
“Working at Gabriel Homes feels like you’re taking care of friends or family. You feel the residents’ emotions, build strong bonds with them, and are proud of every milestone they reach.”
Karen Adams (above photo, right), Residential Counselor, Gabriel Homes
In 2025, Gabriel Homes oversaw...
- 32,519 on-site hours
- 26,325 meals prepared by staff and residents
- 12,000 transportation arrangements
- 73,730 medications administered
- 401 medical appointments coordinated
- 96 meetings on residents’ individual service plans
- Over 300 sports competitions and practices attended by residents
- Over 750 social events attended by residents
The numbers only begin to describe a day in the life at Gabriel Homes. Each breakthrough in a program goal reflects a resident growing in confidence. Support from staff, residents, families, and partners makes independence for people of all abilities a reality.
“I’m learning from the residents to this day,” says Reuben Sidifall, a senior residential counselor. “The residents are independent, hardworking adults today because Gabriel Homes offers them the tools to succeed.”
Special Thanks:
Gabriel Homes sends a special 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. We also thank the GRCC members who reviewed the nomination and selected Gabriel Homes as a finalist.
“We are deeply honored to be recognized as a finalist for Nonprofit of the Year at the 2026 ACE Awards. Our nomination is possible thanks to our staff, who put their heart and soul into fostering independence for our residents.” 
Lynn Davis Executive Director, Gabriel Homes
The Value of Chamber Membership
Gabriel Homes sees the daily value in their partnership with the GRCC. A networking night led to weekly parkour and dance classes for residents at MindShift Gym. Members like Northwest Federal Credit Union and John Marshall Bank now regularly sponsor our annual golf tournament. Also thanks to the GRCC, Gabriel Homes has grown closer with fellow nonprofits like SPARC Solutions, who also work to empower adults with IDD.
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The Latest Stories at Gabriel Homes:
Summer Momentum Pushes Forward at MindShift Gym May 26, 2026 Read More
Gabriel Homes Finalist for ACE Awards 2026 May 22, 2026 Read More
How Residents Beat the Heat Walking in Reston May 22, 2026 Read More
How Residents Beat the Heat Walking in Reston May 22, 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
Stephen Honors His Father at Arlington National Cemetery April 24, 2026 Read More
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May 2026: Beyond the Front Door
The May 2026 edition of Gabriel Homes’, monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, features stories of all the action our residents take part in when they head out. See stories featuring spring-themed parties, trips out of state, and a recap of the first-ever All Abilities Block Party.
The Latest:
Residents Host Spring-Themed Party
The residents at Gabriel Homes #3 celebrated the changing weather by inviting everyone to a Spring-themed party. The highlights of the party included a catered dinner, locally made ice cream, and an Easter Egg Hunt.
See photos of the party and learn who won the egg hunt at gabrielhomes.org.
See photos and highlights of the party
Shopping Fosters Independence
At Gabriel Homes, residents’ spending styles can be the same as many others. Residents have the freedom to decide what to buy and how to budget. Shopping is a part of everyday life at Gabriel Homes.
See all the ways residents spend based on their interests at gabrielhomes.org.
Learn MoreFollow us on social media for weekly updates, and share your favorite stories with your followers:
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Stephen Honors His Father at Arlington National Cemetery
Stephen often reshares memories of his father, who served during World War II. On a trip to Arlington National Cemetery, Stephen shared his father’s war stories as he visited sites like the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
“My father was part of the 45th Infantry, known as the Thunderbirds, when he fought in Italy.”
-Stephen
See photos and stories about Stephen's trip
All Abilities Block Party Draws Families, Neighbors, & Memories
The first-ever All Abilities Block Party, held at Lake Anne Plaza, created a welcoming space where the community could learn, connect, and have fun together, regardless of ability. Entertainment, interactive activities, and resource tables helped bring the vision to life.
See dozens of photos & read the full recap
January Catches Duke Baseball for Easter
This Easter, January (first photo) and her family met with her nephew, Grayson (second photo, left), who plays baseball for the Duke Blue Devils. Wearing Grayson’s jersey while he played, January danced to every player’s walk-up songs and energized the entire stadium.
“Watching baseball is even more fun when you know the players. It’s cool to see Grayson playing with some of the best players in the country!”
January, Gabriel Homes Resident
See photos and read the full story of January and Durham
Darcy Takes in New Orleans Culture, History, and Food
Through Loudoun County Adaptive Recreation, Darcy (both photos, left) packed her bags for a New Orleans trip full of fun, culture, and history. The trip featured famous restaurants, Mardi Gras World, a swamp tour, and much more.
“We had something new to eat every day in New Orleans!
Darcy, Gabriel Homes Resident
See everywhere Darcy visited in New Orleans
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: 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 Stephen Honors His Father at Arlington National Cemetery April 24, 2026 Read More First-Ever All Abilities Block Party Draws Families, Neighbors, and Memories April 22, 2026 Read More The Treehouse: April 2026 Newsletter April 13, 2026 Read More Gabriel Homes Hosts St. Patrick’s Day Party April 7, 2026 Read More Residents Find Confidence in Inclusive Ballet Courses April 3, 2026 Read More Everyone Is Excited for the Gabriel Homes All Abilities Block Party April 2, 2026 Read More Gabriel Homes Proudly Sponsors The Arc’s “A Life Like Yours” March 31, 2026 Read More dddcd
Easter is a holiday rooted in family traditions.
For January, a Gabriel Homes resident, Easter was about something simpler: time with loved ones.
Up and Down the East Coast
Making the trek from Reston, her holiday began in Pennsylvania, where she caught up with her older brothers. The quiet start gave January time to reconnect with family before the weekend grew bigger and busier. But Pennsylvania was merely the first stop on her trip. The siblings boarded a flight to Durham, North Carolina, for Easter Weekend.
Waiting for them at the airport was her nephew Grayson (first photo, left), a pitcher for the Duke Blue Devils baseball team. Grayson had little time to say hi before heading to his first game of the weekend. The short hellos were more than enough for January, since she was looking forward to cheering for the Blue Devils from the stands.
“When January’s in the stands, you want to play your best. Seeing her smile means the world to me.”
Grayson
Pitcher, Duke Blue Devils Baseball
January soaked in every moment. She proudly donned her nephew’s jersey and danced to everyone’s walk-up songs. The Blue Devils’ faces lit up when she waved to them, and she helped energize the crowd when the stadium was quieter.
“Watching baseball is even more fun when you know the players. Grayson is such a good pitcher. It’s so cool to see him playing with some of the best players in the country!”
January
Gabriel Homes Resident
During their last day in Durham, the family went to Cameron Indoor Stadium, home of Duke’s basketball team, for Easter Mass. Everyone spent the rest of the trip walking through the campus and gardens, where the spring flowers were in bloom. Grayson and January spent the day laughing about some of their favorite Easter memories.
“When I was a kid, January would do Easter egg hunts with me. We used to race around my parents’ house trying to find the most eggs. Memories with January are the ones you never forget.”
Grayson
No matter the holiday, January brings the most enthusiasm out of anybody.
See how she and several friends celebrated Galentine’s Day on February 13 at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Learn MoreMore Resident Spotlights:
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 Volunteering at Gabriel Homes Brings Out the Best of Us March 2, 2026 Read More Independence Through Employment at ECHO February 23, 2026 Read More dddcdAt Gabriel Homes, residents’ spending styles can be the same as many others.
Clothes, food, and personal items meet everyone’s interests and daily needs. Financial independence means residents have the freedom to decide what to buy and how to budget. Shopping is a part of everyday life for residents at Gabriel Homes.
Shopping at Gabriel Homes
Sara, a bookworm at Gabriel Homes, likes growing her library in her room with more books. Her favorite genre is fantasy, especially adoring the Harry Potter series. The Last Fallen Realm, a novel that draws from Korean mythology and folklore, is the newest title in her collection.
“Fantasy books stick with me longer than anything else. I like getting lost in the characters and worlds. The best part about them is the happily-ever-after. You don’t get endings like those in other books.”
Sara
Gabriel Homes Resident
More Stories from Residents
Angie, another resident at Gabriel Homes, shares a love for literature in her own way. She enjoys shopping for pens so she can write short stories with them. Much of Angie’s inspiration comes from news and pop culture.
“I like to write stories about people in college. Writing about classes and friendships is fun because it lets me be creative with everyone. The hardest part is keeping track of lots of characters!”
Angie, Gabriel Homes Resident
Trinkets and More
While some residents shop with goals in mind, others buy items spontaneously. Darcy, another resident, likes shopping for knick-knacks and trinkets. Recent additions to her collection include a trinket of the Disney character Stitch and a Labubu plush.
“Sometimes I like to sew clothes for new dolls. When I came home with my Labubu, I sewed a new jacket for it. My tiny clothes make my collection special and unique!”
Darcy
Gabriel Homes Resident
Want to learn more about daily life at Gabriel Homes?
Residents work or attend vocational programs during the day, and they take care of everyday housework in the evening. Visit gabrielhomes.org to learn more about our residents’ routines. Learn MoreA Day in the Life at Gabriel Homes:
Shopping at Gabriel Homes Fosters Independence May 5, 2026 Read More Residents Find Confidence in Inclusive Ballet Courses April 3, 2026 Read More Gabriel Homes Ups the Ante with Game Night March 9, 2026 Read More Volunteering at Gabriel Homes Brings Out the Best of Us March 2, 2026 Read More Independence Through Employment at ECHO February 23, 2026 Read More Residents Show Off Acrobatic Skills at Reston Parkour Gym February 9, 2026 Read More Independence Through Employment at ECHO February 6, 2026 Read More Shaping a Safe and Welcoming Home for Adults With IDD January 30, 2026 Read More Gabriel Homes Residents Share 2026 New Year’s Resolutions December 29, 2025 Read More Gabriel Homes Goes All-Out in Christmas Decorations at Home December 23, 2025 Read More Every Day Is Christmas at Gabriel Homes November 13, 2025 Read More dddcd
Spring brings a sense of change: more daylight, more energy, and more reasons to step outside.
At Gabriel Homes, the shift can mean breaking out of routines and spending more time with friends.
The residents at Gabriel Homes #3 celebrated the changing weather by inviting everyone to a Spring-themed party. Since the party was on a Friday, many residents reflected on the week with their friends. Chris and John chatted about how they felt strong after powerlifting training, while Caryn talked about all the coffee she served at work.
“I like to kick my feet up and relax on Fridays, but I like being with my friends even more. Watching TV is boring anyway!” 
Shelby Gabriel Homes Resident 
A Favorite Dinner
Dinner followed the post-work chit-chat. Eyes darted toward the catered tacos that the staff was preparing. Nearly every resident stuffed their tortillas with toppings. Ice cream and cake rounded out the meal on a sweet note.
“My favorite parties have a good dinner, and the tacos were delicious! I would’ve had more to eat if I didn’t spend so much time with friends.”
Joe (pictured above, right), Gabriel Homes Resident
The party led to a competitive finale: an Easter egg hunt orchestrated by staff. Program coordinators and residential counselors hid over 100 eggs in the backyard for residents to track.
As soon as they stepped outside, the residents sought every nook and cranny for eggs.
Sam rushed after eggs resting on the fence, while Angie parsed through ones hiding in the bushes. Shelby ran up the score by going after eggs sitting on the fence.
“Bending myself for eggs is hard since my legs aren’t the same as they were 20 years ago. Darcy was super kind and gave me a couple when I headed inside.” 
Rich Gabriel Homes Resident
Ultimately, Patrick walked away as the champion of the egg hunt with 18.
He found so many eggs that he started carrying some in his pockets! Some residents joked that Patrick won because he knew his backyard so well, but he laughed it off and credited his wits and speed for his victory.
“Finding the most eggs felt great, but the real win was having an awesome party. I spend lots of time indoors during the week, so having friends over and being outside feels even better!”
Patrick, Gabriel Homes Resident
Gabriel Homes hosts parties all year long to bring residents together.
See more stories and photos of our residents making memories at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Learn More
The latest at Gabriel Homes:
Residents Host Spring-Themed Party May 5, 2026 Read More
Darcy Takes in New Orleans Culture, History, and Food May 4, 2026 Read More
Stephen Honors His Father at Arlington National Cemetery April 24, 2026 Read More
January Celebrates Easter in Durham, NC April 22, 2026 Read More
The Treehouse: April 2026 Newsletter April 13, 2026 Read More
Gabriel Homes Hosts St. Patrick’s Day Party April 7, 2026 Read More
Residents Find Confidence in Inclusive Ballet Courses April 3, 2026 Read More
Everyone Is Excited for the Gabriel Homes All Abilities Block Party April 2, 2026 Read More
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From jazz on the Mississippi River to an unexpected meeting with an alligator...
Darcy, a resident at Gabriel Homes, packed her bags for a New Orleans trip full of fun, culture, and history. Her trip to Louisiana was possible through Loudoun County Adaptive Recreation (LCAR), which offers inclusive activities for adults with disabilities.
The first day in the city was a busy one.
Darcy and the group visited the Audubon Aquarium, walked along the French Quarter Riverwalk, and had lunch at Mother’s Restaurant, a historic eatery known for its po’ boys.
Beignets and Jazz
The adventure moved to Mardi Gras World, where the group learned how the iconic parade floats come to life. Then came a stop at Café du Monde, where Darcy enjoyed the famous beignet, a soft French doughnut with powdered sugar. The evening started with time in the heart of the city, the French Quarter, and it wrapped up listening to live jazz during a cruise on the Steamboat Natchez.
“We had something new to eat every day in New Orleans!” Darcy said. “Almost every meal had Cajun seasoning, which tasted spicy. Sugar is usually on top of desserts because Louisiana has lots of sugar mills.”
Darcy, Gabriel Homes Resident
History and culture were the themes of the next day. The morning kicked off with a tour of Saint Louis Cemetery, where Darcy learned about the history of the city and the stories of famous New Orleanians buried there. The afternoon saw the group riding through the city on a double-decker bus, followed by carriage rides through the French Quarter. Ice cream and souvenir shopping closed out the day.
“I bought myself a couple of voodoo dolls at one of the gift shops, and now I wear them around my neck,” Darcy said. “They rest front and center on me, so people ask me about them when I go out.”
One of the last major events of the trip was a swamp tour in the Louisiana Bayou. The group was stunned when an alligator was in their sights. Darcy thought the gator looked scary at first, but she joked that it became her friend for the rest of the ride.
“The alligator was the coolest part of the trip. It was only scary because it was hungry from seeing our snacks. Our boat kept moving, and eventually the gator stopped following us. I never saw one so closely before!”
Darcy
Travel and crafting are two of Darcy’s favorite hobbies, and now she’s added something new: dancing!
See how she’s improving her balance through ballet courses at MindShift Gym at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Click Here
A day in the life at Gabriel Homes...
Residents Find Confidence in Inclusive Ballet Courses April 3, 2026 Read More
Gabriel Homes Ups the Ante with Game Night March 9, 2026 Read More
Volunteering at Gabriel Homes Brings Out the Best of Us March 2, 2026 Read More
Independence Through Employment at ECHO February 23, 2026 Read More
Residents Show Off Acrobatic Skills at Reston Parkour Gym February 9, 2026 Read More
Independence Through Employment at ECHO February 6, 2026 Read More
Shaping a Safe and Welcoming Home for Adults With IDD January 30, 2026 Read More
Gabriel Homes Residents Share 2026 New Year’s Resolutions December 29, 2025 Read More
Gabriel Homes Goes All-Out in Christmas Decorations at Home December 23, 2025 Read More
Every Day Is Christmas at Gabriel Homes November 13, 2025 Read More
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Over 16 million Americans served in World War II.
Although fewer than .5% of veterans are with us today, their stories live through their children and grandchildren. Stephen, a resident at Gabriel Homes, often reshares the stories of his father, who served during World War II.
A Day Trip to Arlington National Cemetery
His father came up repeatedly when Daniel Borges, a program coordinator at Gabriel Homes, took Stephen on a trip Arlington National Cemetery. The two rode on a narrated tram tour with stops at sites including President Kennedy’s gravesite and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
“Arlington Cemetery is one of the largest cemeteries in the United States. We learned about lots of famous Americans, and the tour told us what veterans did during each war.”
Stephen
Gabriel Homes Resident
Changing of the Guard
The highlight of the trip was the visit to the Memorial Amphitheater, the home of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The monument, which is the final resting place for and an honor of the unidentified fallen soldiers, performs the famous changing of the guard every thirty minutes in the spring. Stephen and Daniel caught the ceremony as the Old Guard, or tomb guards, changed watch between soldiers.
“The military asks for everyone’s silence when they lead the ceremony, but Stephen could not stop talking about his father’s service!”
Daniel Borges, Program Coordinator, Gabriel Homes
Changing of the Guard
At the end of the tour, Daniel and Stephen saw a section of every military medal imaginable. Stephen said his father and uncle, who served together, received every medal he saw.
“My father was part of the 45th Infantry, also known as the Thunderbirds, when he fought in Italy,” Stephen said. “He was shot in the arm and the doctors wanted to amputate it, but he said no! Doctors and nurses took care of him for a long time in the VA hospital. Thank goodness he was O.K., or else I wouldn’t be here!”
At Gabriel Homes, every resident brings stories worth remembering and sharing.
Join our community by signing up for our monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, to stay up to date on resident stories and events at gabrielhomes.org. Click HereMore stories at Gabriel Homes:
Stephen Honors His Father at Arlington National Cemetery April 24, 2026 Read More January Celebrates Easter in Durham, NC April 22, 2026 Read More First-Ever All Abilities Block Party Draws Families, Neighbors, and Memories April 22, 2026 Read More The Treehouse: April 2026 Newsletter April 13, 2026 Read More Gabriel Homes Hosts St. Patrick’s Day Party April 7, 2026 Read More Residents Find Confidence in Inclusive Ballet Courses April 3, 2026 Read More Everyone Is Excited for the Gabriel Homes All Abilities Block Party April 2, 2026 Read More Gabriel Homes Proudly Sponsors The Arc’s “A Life Like Yours” March 31, 2026 Read More Jim Anderson Inducted into Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame March 31, 2026 Read More 2026: The Year of Dave March 30, 2026 Read More The Treehouse: March 2026 Newsletter March 10, 2026 Read More Gabriel Homes Ups the Ante with Game Night March 9, 2026 Read More Beyond the Mission: How Gabriel Homes Reached New Heights in 2025 March 6, 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
Gabriel Homes drew large crowds for the All Abilities Block Party, a celebration of the inclusion of the Reston community.
On a sunny Saturday afternoon, guests of all ages and abilities joined Gabriel Homes and nine resource partners.
The first-ever block party, held at Lake Anne Plaza, created a welcoming space where the community could learn, connect, and have fun together, regardless of ability. Entertainment, interactive activities, and resource tables helped bring the vision to life.
“The All Abilities Block Party was a reminder
Lynn Davis, Executive Director, Gabriel Homes
of what’s possible when inclusion is intentional. Everyone’s time, energy, and belief in an inclusive future make a difference for people of all abilities.”
The highlights for families with young children were the artists and entertainers.
A juggler left guests in awe with her talent and precision, and a bubble artist wowed the crowd with his larger-than-life creations. The lines for glitter tattoos and caricature art stayed full, and attendees admired the artwork painted by Gabriel Homes residents.
“My kids loved the bubbles, and I loved lunch on the water.”
Morgan, parent who attended the block party
“The performers and glitter tattoos were great.”
Susan, parent who attended the block party
The All Abilities Block Party was elevated thanks to the resource partners who proudly stood for inclusion at Lake Anne. Families, self-advocates, and allies learned about disability resources and opportunities at The Arc of Northern Virginia, Civitan, ENDependence Center of Northern Virginia, ServiceSource, and SPARC booths. Cloverleaf Equine Center, MindShift Gym, and Special Olympics Virginia showed inclusive sports and wellness programs for people of all abilities.
“Everyone was so engaging and friendly! I loved learning about Gabriel Homes and the new programs available for my daughter.”
Regina, parent of a person with disabilities who attended the block party
You can still get involved with Gabriel Homes!
Learn more about how you can support inclusive communities by getting involved with our residents at gabrielhomes.org. Learn More
The latest stories at Gabriel Homes:
The Treehouse: April 2026 Newsletter April 13, 2026 Read More
Gabriel Homes Hosts St. Patrick’s Day Party April 7, 2026 Read More
Residents Find Confidence in Inclusive Ballet Courses April 3, 2026 Read More
Everyone Is Excited for the Gabriel Homes All Abilities Block Party April 2, 2026 Read More
Gabriel Homes Proudly Sponsors The Arc’s “A Life Like Yours” March 31, 2026 Read More
Jim Anderson Inducted into Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame March 31, 2026 Read More
2026: The Year of Dave March 30, 2026 Read More
The Treehouse: March 2026 Newsletter March 10, 2026 Read More
Gabriel Homes Ups the Ante with Game Night March 9, 2026 Read More
Beyond the Mission: How Gabriel Homes Reached New Heights in 2025 March 6, 2026 Read More
Gabriel Homes Celebrates Friendship on Galentine’s Day March 5, 2026 Read More
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The Latest:
The April 2026 edition of Gabriel Homes’, monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, shares all the celebrations and parties in store before the first-of-its-kind All Abilities Block Party.
Residents Find Confidence in Inclusive Ballet Courses
Residents are building their confidence and finding joy through ballet courses that promote their movement by trying something new in a supportive space.
“I feel much happier after I dance here. Ballet is a nice challenge, and it feels good to see myself getting better at it.”
Lucy (first photo, front), Gabriel Homes Resident
See our residents dancing in action
2026: The Year of Dave
How often do the stars align for three major milestones? For Dave, 2026 celebrates 30 years living at Gabriel Homes, 30 years working at Walmart, and turning 65!
“It has meant the world to us to see him grow and mature into a wonderful person. Dave feels he is at home, and we know he’s safe and secure at Gabriel Homes.”
Barb, Dave’s Mom
See Dave’s greatest achievements
Follow us on social media for weekly updates, and share your favorite stories with your followers:
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Gabriel Homes Sponsors The Arc’s “A Life Like Yours” Benefit Breakfast
Hosted by The Arc of Northern Virginia, Community leaders, families, and self-advocates came together for a powerful morning highlighting inclusion and dignity. The highlights were the moving remarks from a parent and a self-advocate sharing his many achievements.
See all the moments that inspired guestsJim Anderson Inducted Into Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame
The owner of The Anderson Company was inducted for his decades of generosity, leadership, and support that helped shape Gabriel Homes.
“Gabriel Homes would not be where it is today without Jim’s help. He’s made all the difference in all aspects of the organization – the board, staff, sponsors, and most importantly, the residents.”
Monsignor Bob Cilinski (second photo, right)
Learn more how Jim had thoughtful solutions for every challenge at gabrielhomes.org.
Gabriel Homes Hosts St. Patrick’s Day Party
St. Patrick’s Day at Gabriel Homes blended the classic festivities with unforgettable food. Residents proudly donned green shirts, ties, and hats.
“Being with people you care about is what makes holidays special.”
Chris, Gabriel Homes Resident
See highlights from the St. Patrick’s party at gabrielhomes.org.
Everyone Is Excited for the Gabriel Homes All Abilities Block Party
Did you know? Residents will show off their talents at the All Abilities Block Party. Our booths will feature their paintings, drawings, and other projects. Residents will also take the microphone to sing their favorite hits or read their favorite excerpts, and some may lead a few dances.
See everything in store at the All Abilities Block Party at gabrielhomes.org, and remember to RSVP!
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: April 2026 Newsletter April 13, 2026 Read More Gabriel Homes Hosts St. Patrick’s Day Party April 7, 2026 Read More Residents Find Confidence in Inclusive Ballet Courses April 3, 2026 Read More Everyone Is Excited for the Gabriel Homes All Abilities Block Party April 2, 2026 Read More Gabriel Homes Proudly Sponsors The Arc’s “A Life Like Yours” March 31, 2026 Read More Jim Anderson Inducted into Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame March 31, 2026 Read More 2026: The Year of Dave March 30, 2026 Read More The Treehouse: March 2026 Newsletter March 10, 2026 Read More Gabriel Homes Ups the Ante with Game Night March 9, 2026 Read More Beyond the Mission: How Gabriel Homes Reached New Heights in 2025 March 6, 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
St. Patrick’s Day, known for its busy gatherings and bright decor...
... may be exciting and meaningful for some, but it can also cause sensory strain for others. At Gabriel Homes, every celebration makes room for everybody’s needs.
Celebrating St. Patrick’s Day doesn’t mean doing away with tradition; quite the contrary! A recent St. Patrick’s Day party had nearly all residents come together in a familiar, comfortable space, home#3. Shamrocks dressed the walls and green coverings topped the tables. Those who wanted to be in the center of the action met in the living room, while those who needed breaks from the chatter relaxed in the family room.
“I’m always happy having friends over for parties. Being with people you care about is what makes holidays special.”
Chris, Gabriel Homes Resident
In the spirit of the holiday, many residents arrived dressed in green. Stephen, one of our most dapper residents, arrived wearing a green tie. Shelby, Rich R., Sean, and John wore green shirts, Chris and David wore green sweaters, and Rich D. wore his green polo. Residents who didn’t have green in their wardrobes made up for it by wearing green ribbons.
“If you don’t wear green on St. Patrick’s Day, leprechauns pinch you I’ve had my green sweater ready since winter. St. Patrick’s Day is my favorite day to wear it!”
Shelby
Gabriel Homes Resident
This St. Patrick’s Day didn’t have your usual dinner in store, but it became the highlight of the evening. Instead of traditional Irish fare, residents enjoyed Indian dishes catered by Maharani Palace in Herndon. The meal included chicken curry, mango lassi, and garlic naan.
“I couldn’t stop talking about how great the food was! Good food is what matters most on St. Patrick’s Day.”
John
Gabriel Homes Resident