What are the benefits of a professional organizer?
Research shows that people who live in clutter can be more anxious and have lower self-esteem. A professional organizer can benefit people who want to live comfortably and confidently. Stanford University recommends organizing the places where you work and relax first.
Meet The Handy Ma’am:
Naomi McKeone, owner of The Handy Ma’am, helps Gabriel Homes residents maximize their living spaces. Some residents have lived at Gabriel Homes for over 30 years, and clutter can grow over time when personal needs change and storage becomes limited. To help with organizing, Naomi gives unbiased advice and suggests new, creative ways to store older clothes and decorations.
“Residents know where they can put folded clothes away because I label all their drawers,” Naomi says. “Sometimes I have little work to do on their rooms because they’re great at following my suggestions.”
Some residents join Naomi in sorting items to keep, trash, or donate.
One resident, John, is donating over 100 books and magazines after reviewing his collection with Naomi. His bookshelf and nightstand now have space for new books and photos.
See John organizing with Naomi:
https://www.gabrielhomes.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2025.04.18-jh-organizing-v1.mp4 “Caryn’s and my bedroom looks different from before, and now we know where to put everything away. Going to sleep is much easier when your room is organized.”
Shelby
Gabriel Homes Resident
“Our room had several things lying around that didn’t need to be there. With Naomi’s help, everything was organized perfectly!”
Caryn
Gabriel Homes Resident
Passion to Profession
Naomi found her calling as The Handy Ma’am when her church friends asked for help organizing their clutter during the early pandemic. Organizing was second nature to Naomi since she tidied her home for fun after work. Once she had a steady list of appointments, Naomi’s hobby became her full-time career.
“I am obsessed with organizing,” Naomi says. “Sometimes we’re blind to what’s in front of us, and our passions can become jobs.”
Naomi may offer professional organizing help, but residents are responsible for following through on her advice.
See how residents keep their spaces clean and comfy by seeing what a day in the life may look like at Gabriel Homes.
Learn MoreRecent home spotlights at Gabriel Homes:
Professional Organizer Benefits Gabriel Homes April 23, 2025 Read More Ensuring Quality Housing for Adults With IDD at Gabriel Homes February 24, 2025 Read More Exercise Builds Independence for Adults With IDD February 20, 2025 Read More dddcd
Special Olympics bowling is more than meeting with your buddies every Sunday.
Special Olympics bowling leagues stand out in comparison to sports like soccer or baseball because Special Olympics bowling brings every lane together. Athletes can also use equipment like bowling ramps and grips so everyone can join in on the fun.
See How They Roll:
Kari and January, two residents at Gabriel Homes, bowl each Sunday for the Northern Virginia Special Olympics. Having bowled together for over 25 years, they often share lanes and bowl as a team with their friends.
“I’ve been bowling since middle school, and I’ve gotten much stronger when rolling the ball,” January says. “I still practice before playing, and I’m working to grip the ball better to have more control.”
Athletes in the league say consistency is the hardest part about bowling. Sarah is a longtime friend and league competitor with January and Kari. She likes swinging the ball when she rolls because it helps her focus on the line and pins.
Sarah’s advice for new bowlers:
“Train very seriously. Have your parents teach you. Be on time when it’s your turn to bowl and have focus and concentration.”
Sarah, Special Olympics Bowler
Pins, Pins, Pins:
Looking at goals for this season, Kari wants to hit more pins. She’s yet to bowl a perfect game (bowling 12 strikes in a row), but she wants to improve her posture and movement to get the highest score.
“Bowling’s a hard sport, and we work a lot to roll more strikes and spares,” Kari says. “My coaches give me good advice when I warm up and ask for help.”
Both see drastic improvements in Special Olympics bowling over time.
Working with coaches and friends like Sarah, January and Kari are more confident when they head to the alley every Sunday.
“In the past, both ladies have attended State Games in Richmond during the summer Special Olympics games. Of course, they are cheered on for their strikes and good bowling scores. Bowling is a lifelong sport they can continue to enjoy for many years to come.”
Linda, Kari’s Mom
Special Olympics bowling is also fulfilling for coaches and organizers.
League coordinator Laura Cameron (right), whose daughter competes in the league, worked with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) when she was younger. Now with her daughter and the Special Olympics, Laura is more patient with athletes than before and believes her coaches are the foundation of the league’s success.
“The athletes are the reason we’re here,” Laura says. “Everyone’s encouraged to have fun. We don’t care who wins or loses. When you’re here, you make new friends and have fun.”
For Coach Kendall Heren...
... weekends are her time to be with people she advocates for. Coach Kendall helps guide parents of adults with IDD through special education hurdles at KNH Advocacy.
“I come back every week because I want to get to know all the athletes. Special education is one of those areas where you always see new types of people. For bowling, coaches should meet a middle ground with players: see where you can encourage independence and help them improve where they’re lacking.”
Coach Kendall
Friendships are the heart and soul of Special Olympics bowling.
Athletes and coaches run toward their friends and hug when they see each other. Lanes of players jump up and down and clap for their buddies when they roll spares or strikes. Every athlete brings something unique to Special Olympics bowling, like personalities and bowling styles.
“Everything is the best part about Special Olympics bowling,” January says. “I get to be with friends like Kari and Sarah, and I have fun cheering with my friends and coaches.”
January made it to states in Special Olympics soccer last year!
See how she and her team shined throughout the season at gabrielhomes.org/stories.
Learn MoreMore sports 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 dddcdOn April 11...
Gabriel Homes held its second annual Spring Fling, a celebration of the residents thanks to your donations. Dranesville United Methodist Church lent its space that had an open floor for dancing.
Residents arrived to the second annual Spring Fling in their favorite outfits, from comfy to business casual.
Gabe, Joe, and Sam wore button-down shirts, and Stephen donned his Garfield tie. Sean and Chris Y. rocked blazers, while his housemate Angie wore a blue cardigan sweater. Caryn wore her sparkly blue shirt, and Darcy put on her ruffled striped top.
“Garfield is one of my favorite comics, so I wear the tie for fun nights like the Spring Fling,.”
Stephen
Gabriel Homes Resident
The evening kicked off with residents and friends getting their photos taken at the balloon arch.
John H. and Rich R. couldn’t stop laughing when they took their photos, and Gabriel Homes staff Beth Hoyos was quick to join Kari and January for their photo.
“The balloon arch is a cool spot for photos! I like getting my photo taken so I can show my family that the Spring Fling is a blast.”
Patrick
Gabriel Homes Resident
Residents then made their way to spin a wheel for prizes.
Depending on the color they landed on, spinners could walk away with one to six trinkets of their choosing. Some residents’ strategies were spinning the wheel hard, and others did delicate spins.
Once everyone got photos done and won prizes, Gabriel Homes staffers Gwen and Naomi kicked the night off with a game of freeze dance. Funky music took to the airwaves as residents toe-tapped and rocked their bodies back and forth. Ultimately, Sean walked away champion of the first round, and Sara took home the gold for the second game.
“I won a fancy egg I could decorate for Easter. Freeze dance was easy for me since I love dancing songs in musicals.”
Sara
Gabriel Homes Resident
Freeze dance!
Everyone returned to their seats for dinner, and all eyes darted toward the vanilla Spring Fling cake for dessert.
While everyone was seated, Gabriel Homes kicked off Easter-themed bingo. The game of luck’s winners included Sean, Darcy, John H., and Sara.
“Bingo is awesome for the Spring Fling. I don’t usually get bingos, but I have more fun playing it with friends.”
Angie
Gabriel Homes Resident
Like last year’s Spring Fling and Boo Bash, residents began to raise the roof with karaoke.
Residents who had their songs planned for weeks made their way toward the front of the queue. Sean started the night singing “Bein’ Green” by Kermit the Frog.
The excitement kept rolling after Sean: January led the Easter Bunny Hop, Shelby sang “Leather and Lace” by Stevie Nicks, Joe and his bass voice performed “I’ve Been Thinking About You” by London Beat, John G. sang “Fly Me to the Moon,” and Rich D. jammed out to “Funkytown.” Residents couldn’t sit still, either, because everyone was on their feet dancing to every performance until their legs wore out.
Chris
Gabriel Homes Resident
By the end of the night, residents left the second annual Spring Fling clamoring for the next dance.
“I didn’t think tonight could be better than last year, but man, was I wrong!” Dave said, laughing. “I couldn’t stop telling Rich how much fun it was. There’s no other night like it.”
Want to help Gabriel Homes with our next dance?
See how you can volunteer with us and be a part of the Boo Bash! Learn MoreMore resident spotlights:
The Treehouse: May 2025 Newsletter May 5, 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 dddcd
In the April 2025 edition of our newsletter, The Treehouse, we are springing into the new season!
Join our residents in celebrating the warmer weather in this April 2025 newsletter.
Residents Welcome Spring With Fresh Styles
Wardrobes at Gabriel Homes are swapping from heavy coats to light jackets. Residents are happy they can wear their favorite clothes now that the weather is getting nicer. Almost everyone prefers wearing shorts to pants!
Check out everyone's favorite spring clothes at gabrielhomes.org, and follow us on social media for more news from our residents.
See what our residents are showing off
Follow us on social media to see more pictures of our residents:
Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter ThreadsResidents Enjoy Walkable Trails in Reston
Our residents love the walkable trails around their homes, especially in spring. No two trails are the same from home to home, so everyone can go on new adventures outdoors.
“I like walking in spring because the walks outside are relaxing.”
Lucy
Gabriel Homes Resident
See the trails our residents like to walk
Do you know somebody who's missing out on The Treehouse?
Share our newsletter with five people you know! Send them to gabrielhomes.org and have them sign up at the bottom of the home page.
Gabriel Homes Celebrates Willie Lemay’s Legacy
A key plays on the Gabriel Homes Work Crew, Willie passed away on Feb. 13. Willie served his family and community with a wide smile and happy-go-lucky attitude. On the golf course and at Gabriel Homes, friends have no shortage of laugh-out-loud memories with Willie.
Read memories about Willie from family & friends
Community Corner
Gabriel Homes a Finalist for Nonprofit of the Year
Hosted yearly by the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, Gabriel Homes was selected as a finalist for its growth as an organization and impact on our community in 2024.
Learn more about the nominationWe 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
Shannon Bond-Young
Since joining the board in 2024, Shannon brings a wealth of knowledge with her background as a direct support provider. She serves today as director of the Public Guardianship program at the Arc of Northern Virginia.
“Growth is talking to adults about topics they are uncomfortable with and suggesting ideas or solutions together.”
-Shannon
Staff Spotlight
Rosa Voque-Vasquez
Rosa has cleaned our six homes since 2014. Many residents see her as family because she is naturally friendly and makes their homes cozy.
Cleaning for Gabriel Homes is like cleaning for my family.
Rosa Voque-Vasquez
See the importance of mental health with Mary
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 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 Gabriel Homes Residents Welcome Spring with Fresh Styles March 20, 2025 Read More Rosa Leads Spring Cleanings in Reston March 18, 2025 Read More Residents Enjoy Accessible Trails in Reston March 12, 2025 Read More Gabriel Homes Finalist for Reston Chamber Nonprofit of the Year March 6, 2025 Read More The Treehouse: March 2025 Newsletter March 3, 2025 Read More dddcd
New Mexico, Arizona, Utah, and Colorado make up the Four Corners, the only spot in the country where four states meet.
Travelers can explore the history of the American Frontier and see breathtaking landscapes and sites like at the Monument Valley.
Gabriel Homes Resident Seeks Sites at the American Frontier!
Dave, a resident at Gabriel Homes, vacationed in three of the Four Corner states to see his brother Michael and his mom Barb for his birthday. The brothers spent several days at Michael’s home in New Mexico, but plans quickly went off the rails. Dust storms and heavy winds closed the city’s nearest highway, I-10.
“We had to stay inside because of the storms, so Michael and I celebrated my birthday a day early,” Dave said, smiling. “Michael got me my favorite cake, German chocolate. I quickly ate my two slices!”
When the storms cleared on Dave’s birthday, the brothers made up for lost time.
Dave and Michael went on a six-hour road trip to Surprise, AZ. In Arizona, Dave’s childhood baseball team, the Kansas City Royals, played the Seattle Mariners during spring training at Surprise Stadium. The Royals won 9-6 in part thanks to two-run and three-run home runs hit by centerfielder Joey Wiemer and designated hitter M.J. Melendez, respectively.
“Dave and I had a blast together despite the dust storms,” Michael said. “Our trip brought us back to rides we took as kids. Dad loved loading us into the car and driving us to no place in particular. In this case, seeing our childhood team made the trip special for us.”
Since he was conveniently in Arizona, Dave flew from Phoenix to Utah to see his mom, Barb.
They spent most of their time together at home, so Dave helped replace home decorations and meal prep. Barb says cooking is one of Dave’s favorite things to do around home.
“We had cold weather with rain and snow here. When the weather was nicer, Dave and I went to Antelope Island in Great Salt Lake. The island has a big herd of bison, but we could only get a photo with the bison statue.”
Barb
Fortunately, there was no shortage of indoor activities until the weather cleared.
The two went to a dinner theater, where actors did a spoof on Star Wars. Dave finished his adventures at a museum attached to the restaurant on the history of Salt Lake’s pioneer past. There, he took photos with a stagecoach and a “Wanted” sign.
“The weather wasn’t great when I saw Mom and Michael, but I got to spend more time with them. New Mexico and Utah are beautiful every time I go.”
Dave
Gabriel Homes Resident
Residents at Gabriel Homes go on adventures across the country and abroad.
See our residents’ latest journeys by signing up for our newsletter at gabrielhomes.org.
Join our communityThe latest news at Gabriel Homes:
The Treehouse: May 2025 Newsletter May 5, 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 dddcd
Professionals who work with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in local nonprofits like in Virginia...
... can offer first-hand knowledge about challenges and recommendations nonprofit boards may face.
An IDD professional serving boards like Gabriel Homes can ensure that adults with IDD are heard and can also lead to fairer policies in Virginia.
Shannon Bond-Young, one IDD professional in Virginia, joined the Gabriel Homes Board of Directors in 2024.
Her career started as a direct support professional (DSP) for adults with IDD. She served adults with IDD in residential, day, and vocational programs and worked in crisis services, counseling, education, and more. Today, she’s the director of the Public Guardianship Program at the Arc of Northern Virginia.
“My style is getting to know adults with IDD personally and treating them like family. We joke with each other, but I’m also a straight shooter because I’m honest about helping adults meet their needs.”
Shannon Bond-Young
When the weather changes from cold to warm...
Shannon sees spring as a time of faith and hope for the people she serves. Some staff work with adults’ challenges over decades, but Shannon assures herself everyone can work through obstacles together.
The Season of Change
In the new season, Shannon and other IDD professional workers in Virginia self-reflect and seek growth. Shannon believes people constantly change, and she sees success as a chance to improve herself.
“My grandma said, ‘You stop changing when you’re dead,’” Shannon says, laughing. “I start a list of things I can add to my life and not be stagnant, because we constantly change.”
People Bloom in Spring, Too!
Blooming flowers and rain showers signal growth in the new season. Shannon says adults with IDD should push themselves to try new things. Using person-centered support, according to Shannon, is a partnership between adults with IDD and their guardians.
“Growth is talking to adults with IDD about topics they’re uncomfortable with and suggesting ideas or solutions together,” Shannon says. “You see them grow when they make their own choices, including small ones like going on dates or changing hair color.”
Personal Spring Goals
Shannon says she’s ready to get to work with Gabriel Homes. As part of the Health & Welfare Committee, Shannon walks away with action items after every board meeting. Some of her goals this season include having accessible resources for adults with IDD and their families and looking at residents’ needs as they continue to get older.
“I love being hands-on with projects for the residents,” Shannon says. “Starting as a DSP and working my way up, I look forward to being a resource people can turn to for Gabriel Homes’ services and recommendations.”
Mental Health Matters
Shannon advocates for a greater focus on mental health for adults with IDD. She explains that people with autism and ADHD often lack support and but can grow with help from mental health resources. As a therapist, Shannon takes pride in providing services and partnering with experts at the Arc to help others with IDD.
“Professionals don’t talk about mental health enough,” Shannon says. “Encouraging more conversations about it and getting help from your community can make a difference in people’s lives.”
The March 2025 edition of our monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, celebrates physical and mental health for adults with IDD.
Read stories about mental health and our residents at gabrielhomes.org/stories, and get future editions in your inbox by signing up for our newsletter. Join The Treehouse Community
More Breaking News at Gabriel Homes:
Rosa Leads Spring Cleanings in Reston March 18, 2025 Read More
Residents Enjoy Accessible Trails in Reston March 12, 2025 Read More
Gabriel Homes Finalist for Reston Chamber Nonprofit of the Year March 6, 2025 Read More
dddcd
William “Willie” Lemay, a key player on the Gabriel Homes Work Crew (GHWC), passed away on Feb. 13.
In his personal life and the public sector, Willie Lemay served his family, friends, and community and brought joy to everyone he met.
Willie graduated from Mount Vernon High School and earned his bachelor’s at American University.
He started at the United States Postal Service and transitioned to federal law enforcement. His experience prepared him for public sector leadership, where he served as chief of the Federal Protective Service at the General Service Administration.
“We always ran into people Willie knew because he met so many people at work,” said Sandy Lemay, Willie’s wife, laughing. “Whether we went to a different state, a store, or the airport, he’d track them down and say hi, even if he hadn’t seen them in 15 years.”
Friends say Willie’s best traits were his contagious smile and personality.
One of his best friends, Mickey Femino (right), introduced him to GHWC through Past Chairman Mike Holupka. Willie immediately gelled with the crew thanks to his happy-go-lucky attitude. No GHWC task was too large for Willie Lemay, whether he had to trim trees, spread mulch, or paint the homes.
“Willie and another crew member were painting a room one day, and the coat was looking good. They were nearly done when one of them knocked over the paint bucket. Paint was all over the carpet. They got the vacuum to suck the paint up, but they had the setting on exhaust. The paint spread all over the room. The crew then had to clean up the paint for about three hours.”
Mickey Femino
At home, one of Willie’s greatest passions was baseball. Willie played the sport in grade school and coached little league and travel softball for over 40 years. For many years, Willie coached Osbourn Park High School’s varsity softball team. The Nationals and college softball were always on the TV in the garage, and Willie talked endlessly about sports with his family.
“My dad was the reason I was an athlete and loved sports. We were all rooting for the same D.C. teams. My family bought tickets for games and arranged Super Bowl parties at their home. I moved around a lot when I got married, but our family stayed connected talking about sports.”
Lisa Stephens, Willie’s Daughter
When Willie had more free time after retirement, golf became one of his top hobbies.
Willie could compete in a low-impact sport. His first time golfing was on a trip with Mickey, and he was forever hooked on the sport from there. Despite not being an event planner, Willie wrote itineraries for twice-a-year golf trips. The group traveled to Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Ocean City, Md., and golfed at local courses in Prince William County. Willie and members of GHWC were also regular golfers at the Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament.
“Golf was more fun when Willie Lemay was around, and he was better at swinging than he let on. Willie did the Willie Shuffle after every swing, where he did a little turnaround jump with Muhammad Ali’s shuffle. Then, when Mickey hit the ball 50 yards past everyone, Willie sang Blue Bayou by Linda Ronstadt because Mickey’s shots always blew by you. Willie’s smile and humor added another level of fun when we golfed.”
Jack Mannion
Director, Health and Welfare Committee, Gabriel Homes Board of Directors
Mike echoed Jack’s comments on golfing and doing the Willie Shuffle: “The golf course was so much fun with Willie. He always wanted to hit first and do the shuffle. We miss him very much.”
Willie took pride in helping others chase their dreams, be it on the baseball diamond or at our homes in Reston. He never served others for his own credit; he gave back because he loved people.
“Dad was a family-first person. He was always helping around the house and cared about developing deep relationships.”
Lisa Stephens
Gabriel Homes thanks Willie Lemay for his years of service to our homes and residents.
Learn more about Willie’s legacy and read memories from friends at millerfuneralhome.net.
More on Willie External Link dddcd
Refreshing your wardrobe from heavy winter to fresh spring styles can spark fashion ideas and energize you for the new season.
At Gabriel Homes, many residents’ eyes are brightening for the change in seasons so they can change into fresh spring styles. Wardrobes are swapping from heavy to light clothes, and residents are spending more time outside thanks to longer evenings.
Patrick says he’s wearing his Hawaiian shirt more, while Darcy is changing from heavy coats to light jackets and sweatshirts.
“I’m excited about spring because I get to swap out my pants for shorts. Polos are my favorite shirts in spring, but I also like wearing my Camp Jaycee T-shirt since camp is my favorite time of year.” 
Gabe Gabriel Homes Resident
Since flowers are blooming, many residents are locked in on what’s coming up this season.
Sean is looking forward to the Spring Fling and Memorial Day, and Stephen can’t wait to see his older brother in Florida.
“My dad’s picking me up and we’re celebrating Easter together,” says John (left). “It’s nice to dress up for the holidays, but I like wearing my shorts and white shirt around the house in spring.”
Switching to fresh spring styles can be exciting, but Sam says he’s missing winter already.
While he’s happy to wear more polos and T-shirts like others, he enjoys bundling up for colder weather.
“I’m fine with the changing weather. Wearing my dress is fun for church, and I can be more creative with my clothes when I work or go outside.”
Lucy, Gabriel Homes Resident
January and Kari’s favorite parts of spring are the outdoor birds and critters.
Both say their favorite birds are owls and robins, and they try to snap photos when they see birds flying.
“Going outside in the spring is awesome,” January says. “I like wearing a green shirt that I got seeing family in Portland, Oregon, and shorts are way more fun to wear than pants.”
With new seasons come new adventures.
Check out upcoming stories from our residents by signing up for our newsletter at gabrielhomes.org.
Stories From Our Community:
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
Community Corner: Special Olympics Coaches’ Impact December 1, 2024 Read More
Community Corner: The Strength of Employing Adults with IDD November 4, 2024 Read More
Community Corner: Security for Your Siblings When You’re Out of State October 7, 2024 Read More
Board Member and Golf Enthusiast September 5, 2024 Read More
Community Corner: Boosting Your Brand With Gabriel Homes August 22, 2024 Read More
dddcd
Spring cleanings improve productivity and creativity by turning clutter into clear, focused workspaces.
The home’s clean slate can spark outside-the-box ideas for the new season.
Rosa Voque-Vasquez has cleaned our six homes since 2014.
Doing cleanings in Reston and Herndon and by getting to know the residents, Rosa has formed personal bonds with them. She often spends extra time chatting with them about family and fixing small issues like fixing toilets or sinks or cleaning carpet spots.
“Cleaning for Gabriel Homes is like cleaning for my family. I organize their spaces because every room should look better than it was before.” 
Rosa Voque-Vasquez
When she started doing cleanings in Herndon and Reston, Rosa was unsure how she could connect with the residents.
Over time, her natural friendliness and interest in residents’ lives helped break the ice between them. Today, some residents see Rosa as family because she makes their homes feel cozy and visits them at Christmas parties.
“Our home looks amazing after Rosa sees us. She’s also a good friend because she’s kind to Rich and me. We’ve learned Spanish like ‘cómo está’ and ‘muy bien’ from her.” 
John Resident, Gabriel Homes
With her clients, Rosa sees the importance clean homes have on people’s quality of life. She believes adults of all abilities deserve tidy homes and the right to live dignified lives. Her work, residents and staff say, makes a difference in everyone’s daily lives.
dddcd“Rosa is more than generous to Gabriel Homes. She’s invested in our residents’ well-being and helps them take pride in their living spaces.”
Lynn Davis, Executive Director, Gabriel Homes
Walkable trails, like many found in Reston, are better for your health and relationships.
Everyone, including Gabriel Homes residents, can enjoy nature comfortably when the Reston trails are walkable, have wide paths, and are free of debris.
Gabriel Homes was founded in Reston because its inclusive community offered opportunities for people of all abilities.
Groups like the Reston Accessibility Committee push for inclusivity across the city. With walkable trails in their backyards, our residents can explore the outdoors safely and independently.
“I like walking in the spring the most because the weather is warm but not too hot. The trails clear my mind after work, and walks outside are relaxing.”
Lucy
Gabriel Homes Resident
The Reston Trails
Residents cherish the walkable trails around their homes, especially in spring. John and Rich walk with Lucy on their days off. The group are close friends who hold each other accountable for walking. Their usual trail is in the heart of the neighborhood, and the group says hi to everyone who crosses their paths.
“We walk over a mile and a half together. My legs feel great because the trails aren’t too hard and we step outside daily.”
Rich
Gabriel Homes Resident
No two Reston trails are the same from home to home.
Sean lives over a mile and a half away from John and Rich, but his favorite path is a 30-minute trek each way to and from their home.
“Our backyard has an easy trail that gets onto the main sidewalk toward John and Rich’s home. Rich is kind when I see him. He offers me a glass of water when I stop by. I usually have one or two drinks before I head home.”
Sean, Gabriel Homes Resident
In the heart of Reston, residents enjoy comfortable homes and supportive neighbors. Their easy-to-use trails allow people of all ages and abilities to stay active and connected. Every step is a step toward healthier, more inclusive lives.