Gabriel Homes is a finalist for Nonprofit of the Year for the 2025 Awards for Chamber Excellence (ACE) in Reston.
Hosted yearly by the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce (GRCC), the ACE Awards honor Reston’s innovators and trailblazers. GRCC members nominate and vote on the finalists for businesses, entrepreneurs, and nonprofits.
Gabriel Homes saw growth and change in 2024 leading to the nomination.
In April, Gabriel Homes unveiled its new logo, a tree sheltered in a home, and launched the new gabrielhomes.org featuring a modern design.
Residents in the spring and fall celebrated two new parties, the Spring Fling and Boo Bash. And for Gabriel Homes’ end-of-year campaign, the community came together and raised 32% more funds than they raised in 2023.
“We are deeply honored to be recognized as a finalist for Nonprofit of the Year at this year’s 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
Gabriel Homes has also used GRCC member benefits to build relationships with local businesses and nonprofits.
By networking and partnering with Northwest Federal Credit Union (NWFCU), some staff have participated in our annual golf tournament, and NWFCU became a gold sponsor in 2024.
“The Chamber is a game changer for businesses and nonprofits. Connections through GRCC enable Gabriel Homes to serve the residents better and expand its services.”
Leslie Kane, Member, Development Committee, Gabriel Homes Board of Directors; Host, Why Not Today Podcast
Congratulations to the finalists in each category. The ACE Awards will be held on June 26 at the Crowne Plaza Dulles Airport Hotel.
Looking to discover more amazing news from Gabriel Homes?
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Join our communityMore news at Gabriel Homes:
The Treehouse: April 2025 Newsletter April 7, 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 Caryn Marks 30 Years of Residence at Gabriel Homes February 18, 2025 Read More Night to Shine Leaves Residents Dazzling February 10, 2025 Read More dddcd
The March 2025 edition of our newsletter, The Treehouse, celebrates physical and mental health.
Our residents make great strides in their health as our community rallies around them. Thank you for joining us in celebrating our residents in this March 2025 newsletter.
Residents Dazzle at Night to Shine
When you head to parties planned by your community, you can build your self-esteem and feel a greater sense of purpose.
The Tim Tebow Foundation rolled out the red carpet for guests with disabilities on February 7 at Night to Shine. Our residents were greeted by professional paparazzi, got their shoes shined and makeup done, and danced the night away.
Check out photos from Night to Shine at gabrielhomes.org, and follow us on social media for more news from our residents.
See the recap of Night to Shine
Follow us on social media to see more pictures of our residents:
Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter ThreadsReston Dentist Keeps Residents' Teeth Healthy
Dr. Amy Ton, cosmetic dentist at Sunrise Dental, prides herself on her one-on-one relationships. Residents are among the office's favorite patients because they brighten the staff's days.
"By getting to know our patients, we're improving their overall health."
Dr. Ton
Learn more about Sunrise Dental and our residents
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Exercise Builds Independence
Fitness differs from person to person. Our residents stay in shape by going on walks, using the treadmill, or going to the gym.
"I like to go on 30-minute walks. The summer and spring are my favorite times of year to go outside."
Sean
Gabriel Homes Resident
See how our residents stay in shape
Healthy Homes Protect Our Residents
Our residents live in quality, healthy homes. Gabriel Homes handles replacements and repairs as needed so residents can focus on their independence.
See how home maintenance keeps our residents healthy at gabrielhomes.org.
Community Corner
One of our residents, Dave, has been competing in a bowling league with close friends.
Learn from fellow bowlers how the sports helps with your concentration, flexibility, and balance at gabrielhomes.org.
See why staff chose their wordsWe 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
Health & Welfare Committee
Quality housing and services become more pressing as residents got older. In response, the Board of Directors formed the Health & Welfare Committee. The committee interviewed families to see how Gabriel Homes could help with future planning.
"Continuity of care is critical for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities."
Sibling of a Resident
See how GHI adapts to changing needs
Staff Spotlight
Mary MacNabb
Mary hit the ground running when she joined Gabriel Homes as a social worker in 2024.
"You need mental and physical health to be a full person. Being there for mental health support helps the residents feel better about themselves and succeed in the world."
Mary MacNabb
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.
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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 Walkable 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
By challenging your body and mind...
... bowling strikes a perfect balance between physical and mental strength. Fitness experts say bowling can improve your flexibility and balance, and psychologists say the sport is keen on concentration and focus.
Physical and Mental Health Join in Bowling
Dave, a resident at Gabriel Homes, competes in a friendly bowling league with his friends at Bowlero in Fairfax. The league meets every Wednesday for over 30 weeks. Many bowlers become close friends over the season, and Dave’s outgoingness brings groups together. Teams trash-talk each other, but everyone celebrates together when players roll strikes.
“Players in our league want to get out and have a good time together. People’s lives have changed for the better here because they’re passionate about the sport and the people around them.” 
David Whitcomb League Commissioner, Dave’s Longtime Friend 
The rules for bowling may not change, but players get ready for play in unique ways.
“When I was younger, I couldn’t hit as many pins because I rolled balls underhanded,” Dave says. “David taught me to hold the ball and keep my balance when I rolled like the pros. I trained my brain in bowling like how players train their muscles in the gym.”
Another challenge when bowling is blocking out the alley’s sights and sounds. Some players say alleys are like casinos since both have distracting screens and noises.
“I listen to music when I roll because I can better focus on myself. Music calms me down and stops my brain from overthinking my turn. The type of music doesn’t matter as long as my brain doesn’t wander.”
Steve, Bowler
Moving from the mind to the body, some bowlers work on their form for decades.
Fixing postures and rolling angles, for example, can take years to master. Bowlers recommend returning to alleys consistently and learning techniques from experts.
“I’ve been bowling for over 30 years, and I’ve only gotten better by practicing – a lot. Playing in leagues for years, I’ve figured out my best starting position and stance. Being accurate and consistent have been the biggest challenges.” 
Richard Dave's Teammate 
Dave’s bowling league is diverse in skill level, background, and age.
Every bowler has their reasons for rolling, but the love of the lanes and friends brings players together. Players say there’s an opportunity for anybody in bowling, no matter their demographics.
“Bowling is an ageless sport,” says Shirley, Dave’s close league friend. “Playing is good exercise because bowling uses your body’s finesse, not action. My mom’s 91 years old and is rolling strikes to this day!”
Residents at Gabriel Homes compete in all types of sports, from softball to soccer and more.
Catch up on all our residents’ achievements on and off the field at gabrielhomes.org/stories. See the Latest
dddcdMental Health Matters: Social workers can help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) achieve independence by building bonds, learning about their needs, and empowering them to make good decisions.
Not all group home providers have full-time social workers on staff. However, for adults with IDD, Gabriel Homes sees the value in investing in and emphasizing our residents’ mental health.
Mary MacNabb (back row, center) joined Gabriel Homes as a social worker in 2024.
She hit the ground running in her onboarding to get to know the residents and their dynamics. When she meets with residents, she aims to help them feel comfortable and share their thoughts freely.
See her staff bio “You need mental and physical health to be a full person. For adults with IDD, being there for mental health support helps the residents feel better about themselves and succeed in the world.”
Mary MacNabb
Social Worker, Gabriel Homes
Residents open up to others in different ways.
Some who don’t like making eye contact are more talkative in the car when they and the driver have their sights on the road. Others prefer sitting down and sharing their thoughts with Mary face-to-face.
“When you meet with the residents, you see their needs change over time,” says Beth Hoyos, director of quality improvement and clinical oversight. “Many residents moved into Gabriel Homes when they were young adults. Over time, we spend more time talking about the challenges of aging everyone faces.”
Mary believes the best meetings are when the residents are being themselves.
When residents speak freely with Mary, she can better understand and support their goals. Her biggest early challenge was gaining the residents’ trust, but breakthroughs in building relationships came over time.
“One of my favorite memories was heading to a resident’s room, asking them to catch up, and seeing them smile. They looked comfortable opening up to me, and we finished our conversation feeling more confident together.”
Mary MacNabb, Social Worker, Gabriel Homes
Your community can be a valuable support system alongside mental health professionals.
Join Gabriel Homes in celebrating our residents’ milestones by signing up for our newsletter.
Sign Up TodayMore news at Gabriel Homes:
Caryn Marks 30 Years of Residence at Gabriel Homes February 18, 2025 Read More Night to Shine Leaves Residents Dazzling February 10, 2025 Read More The Treehouse: February 2025 Newsletter February 3, 2025 Read More Community Corner: Teambuilding at Why Not Today’s Art Event January 31, 2025 Read More The Treehouse: January 2025 Newsletter January 6, 2025 Read More dddcd
Residents have lived at Gabriel Homes, Inc. (GHI) for an average of 23 years.
Since many have been residents since their 20s or 30s, their needs have changed. Quality housing for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) has evolved at GHI with projects that protect them, like shower units.
The GHI Board of Directors asked themselves in 2019: How can we meet the needs of our residents as they continue to age?
Comfortable housing and quality services became more pressing for residents’ safety, something critical for anyone working with adults with IDD. The board’s Health & Welfare Committee helps Gabriel Homes adapt to residents’ needs as they age.
“Staff were asked to assess the residents’ abilities to complete their activities of daily living (ADLs) – where all residents passed 100% of their ADLs,” says “And the board interviewed 10 families of residents aged 45 and older about their plans for hands-on assistance.” 
Jack Mannion Director, Executive and Health and Welfare Committees
Families valued GHI’s services and felt their family members were independent.
The board advised staff to communicate more with families about independence and service criteria for future planning.
“GHI offers independence for adults with IDD. Families should plan for assisted living when needs increase. Life after GHI can feel overwhelming for families. But everyone welcomed clear, realistic expectations about GHI’s mission and services.”
Sooz Perry, Former Co-Director, Health & Welfare Committee
The board was touched by the families’ praise for GHI’s services.
Many families were grateful to see their family members be independent. They were comfortable knowing GHI could handle tasks like appointments and home renovations.
“Continuity of care is critical for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. I’m impressed with Gabriel Homes’ vision and planning to care for residents as they age.”
Sibling of a Gabriel Homes Resident
Our board has four committees: Executive, Health & Welfare, Development, and Infrastructure.
Learn more about how our committees serve GHI’s mission. More on the Board of Directors
The latest from the board:
IDD Professional in Virginia Champions Growth for Gabriel Homes March 26, 2025 Read More
Ensuring Accessible Housing for Adults With IDD at Gabriel Homes February 24, 2025 Read More
Racecar Driving in West Virginia: Cheryl Richardson Preaches Safety January 27, 2025 Read More
New Could Be You! Why You Should Join Our Board of Directors December 18, 2024 Read More
Gabriel Homes Announces Hall of Fame Class of 2024 December 6, 2024 Read More
Young Professionals Revitalize Nonprofit Boards November 25, 2024 Read More
dddcd
Exercise improves social skills, physical and mental health, and can reduce the chance of heart complications.
For adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), exercise can be a stepping stone in reaching their dreams and being independent. Getting strength and energy from regular exercise can build everyone’s confidence.
At Gabriel Homes, residents who work out do so with their interests in mind.
Residents may push boundaries on how far they walk, but they know their limits when lifting weights or using the treadmill.
“I use the bike three times a week for 30 minutes. The pedals keep my legs moving, and I feel good after every time I use it.” 
Stephen Gabriel Homes Resident
During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, many residents didn’t have the chance to walk outside or use the gym to stay active.
Some, however, found workarounds by signing up for Zoom exercise sessions for adults with IDD. Yoga was a favorite among residents since many logged off feeling relaxed once classes finished.
Daylight saving time is coming soon, which means the sun stays out longer in the evenings.
Residents especially are looking forward to the time change for the same reason. Many go on walks in the evenings or on their days off, especially when the sun is out and the weather feels nice.
“I like to go on 30-minute walks to John and Rich’s home. The summer and spring are my favorite times of the year to walk, and the sunlight feels great when I get home. Sometimes I pass John and Rich on my walks!” 
Sean Gabriel Homes Resident 
Fitness differs from person to person, and those who work out build confidence.
At Gabriel Homes, we understand that every resident has their exercise preferences. We celebrate everyone’s choices and work to ensure adults with IDD find joy, purpose, and independence.
Our residents who do Special Olympics powerlifting are back in training for the new season!
See how they’re shaping up for competitions at gabrielhomes.org/stories.
Our residents playing and watching sports - see more!
Chris, John, and Patrick: Housemates and Close Friends at Gabriel Homes January 29, 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
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Gabriel Homes have averaged 23 years of residence per person.
Our six homes across Reston and Herndon have helped adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) become independent, thriving members of our community.
Happy 30 years of residence, Caryn!
Today, Caryn celebrates her 30th anniversary of residence at Gabriel Homes. Over the years, Caryn has become close friends with her housemates, namely Shelby. The two have danced together at parties like the Spring Fling and Boo Bash, and they’ve enjoyed song sessions with their friend Bill every other Thursday.
“Thank you to all Gabriel Homes staff, volunteers, and donors who have helped, cared for, and encouraged Caryn. You are loved and appreciated by her entire family.”
Lee, Caryn's Mom
Residential counselors at Gabriel Homes have known Caryn’s warmth working with her.
Pierrein (first photo, center), one counselor, has worked with Caryn since 2020. Similar to Bill, Pierrein and Caryn’s love of music brought them together. Pierrein once played John Denver’s “Country Roads” per Shelby’s request, and Caryn was in awe of the counselor’s singing voice. The song became special between them because they loved singing it together.
“I love what I do at Gabriel Homes with residents like Caryn. I could not ask for a better job.”
Pierrein, Residential Counselor at Gabriel Homes
30 years later, Caryn is still reaching new milestones in her story of independence.
She’s working a new job at Ellmore Farmhouse at Frying Pan Park. In her role, she serves food and drinks to customers at the café and helps shoppers at the consignment store.
“Caryn’s engaged and makes huge breakthroughs at her new job,” says Kenny Smith, Caryn’s manager and mentor at ServiceSource. “I know her well through previous jobs, and I’m proud of her growth years later.”
Our vision is for all adults with IDD, like Caryn, to reach their full potential.
See how independence and success are possible at Gabriel Homes at gabrielhomes.org/stories.
See more resident spotlights:
Exercise Builds Independence for Adults With IDD February 20, 2025 Read More
Caryn Marks 30 Years of Residence at Gabriel Homes February 14, 2025 Read More
Reston Dentist Serves Adults With IDD February 11, 2025 Read More
Night to Shine Leaves Residents Dazzling February 10, 2025 Read More
Chris, John, and Patrick: Housemates and Close Friends at Gabriel Homes January 29, 2025 Read More
Inclusive Religious Groups Empower Adults with IDD January 27, 2025 Read More
Best Friends Since Middle School January 23, 2025 Read More
Building Trust and Empowerment in Residential Care: Insights from Beth January 21, 2025 Read More
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Proper home maintenance, like personal hygiene, can prevent illness, reduce stress, and create safe living spaces.
Stopping mold, mildew, and allergens can protect you and your home from bodily or household damage.
The interiors of our healthy homes:
Residents at Gabriel Homes have the same quality of home care as their families.
Gabriel Homes does replacements and repairs as needed so residents can focus on their goals instead of problems in their homes. Similar to residents actively seeking the best care for themselves, Gabriel Homes promptly addresses any home issues.
“Healthy homes save lives. I get rid of tripping hazards, install proper lighting, and maintain good air quality at every home. We do the same projects here that I do in mine.”
Gary Le Francois
Director, Infrastructure Committee, Gabriel Homes Board of Directors
When housework is too much for one or two people, Gabriel Homes partners with reliable contractors.
Mold, drywall, painting, and lighting pros teamed up during one flooding emergency, with help arriving the day it happened. The cleanup crew spent a day cleaning the basement and then used their equipment to dry the floor within a week. Before residents knew it, their home was back to normal.
“Gabriel Homes understands the urgency of home repairs and doesn’t cut corners. We put the residents first in our work because we want to protect them and leave the home better than before.”
Farhad Rashedi, President of Sully Interiors
“You never know how someone reacts to mold, so we get to the water as fast as possible. We care about Gabriel Homes, so I take care of the residents’ homes the same way I care for my family’s.”
Tara Herbert, Business Development Manager of Infinity Restoration
Residents take pride in keeping their space in tip-top shape.
Housemates agree on schedules to tackle tasks like vacuuming, cleaning the living room or bathroom, and washing dishes.
“I care about organizing my room and having all my CDs on display. I’m confident after I look back on my cleaning, and I feel ready to go about my day.”
Stephen
Gabriel Homes Resident
Are you interested in yourself or a family member becoming a resident at Gabriel Homes?
Fill out our Contact Us form and let us know if you’re interested in touring our homes. Contact UsThe latest stories at Gabriel Homes:
Exercise Builds Independence for Adults With IDD February 20, 2025 Read More Caryn Marks 30 Years of Residence at Gabriel Homes February 18, 2025 Read More Healthy Homes Protect Our Residents February 13, 2025 Read More Reston Dentist Serves Adults With IDD February 11, 2025 Read More Night to Shine Leaves Residents Dazzling February 10, 2025 Read More The Treehouse: February 2025 Newsletter February 3, 2025 Read More Community Corner: Teambuilding at Why Not Today’s Art Event January 31, 2025 Read More Chris, John, and Patrick: Housemates and Close Friends at Gabriel Homes January 29, 2025 Read More dddcd
Going to the dentist keeps you healthy and makes life more comfortable.
Anyone who skips appointments may face higher risks of tooth decay, gum disease, and oral infections. Dentists may offer longer appointments to better understand and treat patients with IDD who have trouble explaining their mouth pains.
A Favorite Reston Dentist
Many Gabriel Homes residents are patients at Sunrise Dental in Reston. Their dentist, Dr. Amy Ton, prides herself in building personal, one-on-one relationships. Having grown up in Northern Virginia, Dr. Ton wanted to return to her roots after graduating and serve others using her skills.
“On top of oral checkups, we assess our patients’ overall health. We screen for conditions like sleep apnea other doctors may not find. By knowing our patients well, we’re improving their overall health.”
Dr. Amy Ton
Gabriel Homes residents are favorite patients at Sunrise Dental.
Staff ask residents about shirts and jewelry they’re wearing or what their holiday plans are. By getting to know each other, residents are more comfortable showcasing their vibrant personalities, and Sunrise Dental staff can provide more personalized care.
“The residents are warm and polite people,” says Gabriel, a front office associate at Sunrise Dental. “They’re passionate about staying healthy, and we see their oral health progress over time. Our team appreciates how smoothly working with Gabriel Homes’ residents is.”
Residents smiling wide
Residents who get their teeth checked at Sunrise Dental are thankful for the personalized service.
Many say they have good relationships with Dr. Ton and look forward to their next visits.
“Dr. Ton is a great dentist and teeth cleaner. I have a better smile after I see her, and her advice on brushing teeth is helpful for when I leave.”
Sean
Sunrise Dental Patient and Gabriel Homes Resident
Want to learn more about our residents’ adventures in and outside of Reston?
Subscribe to our newsletter for monthly updates on Gabriel Homes and our residents.
SubscribeA Day in the Life at Gabriel Homes:
Social Workers Spotlight Mental Health for Adults With IDD February 26, 2025 Read More Exercise Builds Independence for Adults With IDD February 20, 2025 Read More Reston Dentist Serves Adults With IDD February 11, 2025 Read More Chris, John, and Patrick: Housemates and Close Friends at Gabriel Homes January 29, 2025 Read More Best Friends Since Middle School January 23, 2025 Read More Building Trust and Empowerment in Residential Care: Insights from Beth January 21, 2025 Read More New Year, New Job: Caryn Thrives at Ellmore Farmhouse January 2, 2025 Read More Special Olympics Powerlifting Champions Return to Practice December 19, 2024 Read More Gabriel Homes Residents Decorate Their Homes for Christmas 2024 December 12, 2024 Read More dddcd
Being the center of the party can feel overwhelming, but love from your community can break social stigmas and barriers.
Dressing nicely before you go out improves your self-esteem. And when you head to the party planned by your community, you can feel a greater sense of purpose and belonging.
On Friday, February 7, the Tim Tebow Foundation rolled the red carpet for “Night to Shine.”
Night to Shine, a promenade held at churches across the world, honors and celebrates guests with disabilities aged 14 and older.
Guests who walked Night to Shine’s red carpet were greeted by professional paparazzi.
Those who wanted extra pampering could get their shoes shined or their hair and makeup done by specialists. Everyone who attended partnered with a buddy, like a prom date, who treated them like stars the entire night.
“I felt great when I wore my suit. Night to Shine was one of my favorite nights of the year because I loved all the music they played.”
Joe
Gabriel Homes Resident
The night had more in store for guests than your usual prom:
Attendees also enjoyed catered gourmet dinners. The DJ, dance floor, and lights had everyone leaping out of their seats, and those who wanted breaks could pose at the photo booth.
“I didn’t want to miss a thing when I went to Night to Shine. My favorite parts were the food, karaoke, and dancing.”
Sean
Gabriel Homes Resident
To cap the night, gentlemen left Night to Shine wearing crowns and ladies wearing tiaras.
Night to Shine aimed for guests to feel like royalty for their special night. With the party taking place the Friday before Valentine’s Day, Gabriel Homes residents and others could feel loved and valued by partners, friends, and their community.