Photo for Volunteering at Gabriel Homes Brings Out the Best of Us March 2, 2026 Volunteering at Gabriel Homes Brings Out the Best of Us View this Post
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If you ask the residents one thing they love about Gabriel Homes, some say that no two days look the same thanks to the support of those who dedicate their time to our mission.

Volunteers like the Gabriel Homes Work Crew help with projects like painting or landscaping, while Bill Partlow leads weekly song sessions. Many residents have close friendships with volunteers, so helping out often feels more like hanging out.

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Something New Every Day

Volunteering at Gabriel Homes invites new opportunities to  step up for our residents. One volunteer, Sammy, spends time with the residents through activities they enjoy together. Sammy’s parents own a restaurant in Herndon that the residents frequent, and program coordinator Kassi Fretty invited her to volunteer. A recent Valentine’s Day party saw Sammy painting heart decorations with residents. After the hearts dried, everyone’s works of art hung across the home.

I painted my heart blue and purple. The heart still needed some Valentine’s Day colors, so I put some pink hearts on top of it when I was done. I loved spending Valentine’s Day with people I care about.”

Patrick, Gabriel Homes Resident

The Joy Continues

The residents enjoyed Sammy’s company so much that they invited her back for more art projects. Paint brushes were swapped out for markers, and everyone drew art about spring on construction paper.

I drew lots of flowers since spring is so close. I spend lots of time on the back porch, and I like looking at the flowers when the weather is warmer.”

Shelby, Gabriel Homes Resident
Gabriel Homes residents working on arts and crafts.

It’s Always Fun & Games

Fun and games ensued after the group finished their works of art. As a team, Sammy and the residents tackled several puzzles. Their strategy was to sort pieces by color and pattern, then fit each section into the frame. Once they finished the last puzzle, everyone high-fived each other across the table.

We got through the puzzle quickly because we worked as a team. The hard parts are easier when we help each other.”

Chris, Gabriel Homes Resident

Looking to make a tangible difference on a local level?

Gabriel Homes offers endless ways to volunteer or get involved at gabrielhomes.org. See how you can get involved
Photo for Independence Through Employment at ECHO February 23, 2026 Independence Through Employment at ECHO View this Post
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Hiring adults with disabilities goes beyond doing the right thing — it’s a proven business advantage.

Companies that have people with disabilities on their payrolls earn 1.6 times more revenue, raise two times more profit, and see 25% more productivity from their peers.

Gabriel Homes resident.

Where Independence Shines

Several residents at Gabriel Homes participate in ECHO, a nonprofit that helps connect residents to the workforce and offers guidance from job coaches. Kari (left), one resident at Gabriel Homes, works at the Janelia Research Campus, a major biomedical research center in Ashburn. At her job, Kari provides essential support in the research lab.

“I’m on my feet a lot in the laboratories, so I walk a lot all day. My coworkers and supervisor are fun, kind people. Anyone would dream of working at Janelia!”

Kari, Gabriel Homes Resident
Gabriel Homes residents participating in local events in December. Residents attended the Janelia Research Center's holiday party.

An essential member of the team

Kari’s partnership with ECHO opens the door to stable employment. Her job helps her build new skills with coworkers who empower her. ECHO’s ongoing coaching allows Kari to grow at her own pace, and Janelia’s culture includes her as part of the campus community. Kari often attends functions hosted by Janelia, notably the annual holiday party that features endless food, drinks, and dancing.

“Kari and her ECHO teammates play a vital operational role for our scientific labs,” says. “Without her hard work, our scientists wouldn't be able to do their groundbreaking research. It’s wonderful having her cheerful presence on campus.”

Nathan Soules, DevOps Engineer, Janelia
Members of the Janelia and ECHO communities attend a baseball game together in Washington, D.C. Credit: ECHO

Opportunity benefits everyone

Janelia benefits from hiring participants like Kari because they gain passionate team members who keep the campus running smoothly. Since ECHO provides the training and support, Janelia has reliable help while continuing to build an inclusive, award-winning research environment.

“Kari has been with ECHO for over 25 years, and it’s like a big family for us. I’m grateful for partners like ECHO that strengthen our workforce, and I’m proud of Kari for being a hardworking, independent member of our community.”

Linda, Kari’s Mom

Residents at Gabriel Homes are among the hardest working across Northern Virginia.

See one story about a resident who earned a promotion at gabrielhomes.org. Learn More
Photo for Announcing: All Abilities Block Party at Lake Anne Plaza in Reston February 11, 2026 Announcing: All Abilities Block Party at Lake Anne Plaza in Reston View this Post
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Reston, Va. — February 10, 2026

Gabriel Homes, a leading housing provider for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), is proud to announce the All Abilities Block Party on Saturday, April 11, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Lake Anne Plaza in Reston.

Gabriel Homes residents at 30th Annual Golf Tournament, which took place September 15, 2025.

This first-ever Block Party will celebrate the abilities and inclusion of all members of our community. It will feature fun activities and interactive stations to learn about community resources. And what’s a block party without food? Working with Kalypso Sports Tavern, Gabriel Homes will provide free lunches for all attendees. Community members will be able to meet residents, staff, and board members from Gabriel Homes and learn how they engage and contribute in Reston and beyond.

“The All Abilities Block Party is about visibility and connections. Our residents are active members of our community, and the Block Party gives everyone the chance to celebrate all abilities, including those at Gabriel Homes.”

Lynn Davis, Executive Director, Gabriel Homes
Gabriel Homes resident at the Spring Fling. They are celebrating 30 years living independently at Gabriel Homes.

Event Details:

  • When: Saturday, April 11, 2026, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. 
  • Where: Lake Anne Plaza, Reston, Va. 
  • Cost: Free and open to all who RSVP 

RSVP Today!

RSVP today for the All Abilities Block Party at gabrielhomes.org/party. RSVP Gabriel Homes resident at the Spring Fling. They are celebrating 30 years living independently at Gabriel Homes.

Thank you to our resource fair partners:

The Arc of Northern Virginia, Civitan Fairfax, Cloverleaf Equine Center, Didlake, MindShift Gym, SPARC, and Special Olympics Virginia.

Photo for The Treehouse: February 2026 Newsletter February 11, 2026 The Treehouse: February 2026 Newsletter View this Post
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Everyone Loves a Party!

The February 2026 edition of Gabriel Homes’, monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, is proud to announce the first-ever All Abilities Block Party at Lake Anne Plaza in Reston.

Gabriel Homes residents at 30th Annual Golf Tournament, which took place September 15, 2025.

Announcing the All Abilities Block Party

This first-ever Block Party will celebrate the abilities and inclusion of all members of our community. It will feature fun activities and interactive stations to learn about community resources. And what’s a block party without food? Working with Kalypso Sports Tavern, Gabriel Homes will provide free lunches for all attendees. Community members will be able to meet residents, staff, and board members from Gabriel Homes and learn how they engage and contribute throughout Reston and beyond.

Gabriel Homes resident at the Spring Fling. They are celebrating 30 years living independently at Gabriel Homes.

Event Details

  • When: Saturday, April 11, 2026, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Where: Lake Anne Plaza, Reston, Va.
  • Cost: Free and open to all who RSVP

See the full press release at gabrielhomes.orgRSVP today at gabrielhomes.org/party, and share the link with friends, family, and connections.

RSVP

 

Gabriel Homes resident doing parkour exercises at MindShift Gym in Reston.
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Gabriel Homes residents at MindShift Gym, a parkour gym in Reston.
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Gabriel Homes resident doing parkour stunts at MindShift Gym.
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Gabriel Homes residents exercising at MindShift Gym.
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Residents Show Off Acrobatic Skills at MindShift Gym

Our residents are starting their parkour journeys at MindShift gym, a fitness center in Reston. Weekly lessons feature obstacle courses including ramps and blocks.

“MindShift isn’t like regular exercise because it’s fun! I feel proud of myself for getting stronger after every session.”

Rich (first photo), Gabriel Homes Resident

See our residents doing parkour

No Place Like Home at GH3

Gabriel Homes #3, purchased in 1994, has been a haven for families seeking safe, comfortable, and dignified living for their family members with IDD. Many residents have called the GH3 home since the moment they moved in.

While Shelby and Caryn (second photo, left and right respectively) like drinking coffee out back, Sara (third photo) loves the independence of her large bedroom.

Learn about the history of GH3

 

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Gabriel Homes resident.

Follow us on social media for weekly updates, and share your favorite stories with your followers:

Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter Threads Link Esther Eastman Greene (right) hugging a Gabriel Homes resident (left).

Residents Built Confidence With Esther

Esther Eastman Greene (right) worked at Gabriel Homes for 21 years and came to understand each resident’s strengths and needs. As a residential counselor, everyone saw her as a trusted leader.

See how Esther fostered a safe, independent home environment at gabrielhomes.org.

More on Esther

Independence Through Employment at ECHO

Kari (left) works at the Janelia Research Campus, a major biomedical research center in Ashburn. At her job, Kari is part of the grounds team that provides essential support. She furnishes cages for research mice, filling each with food and activities.

“My coworkers and supervisor are fun, kind people. Anyone would dream of working at Janelia!”

Kari

See what a day at Kari's job looks like at gabrielhomes.org.

Gabriel Homes residents participating in local events in December. Residents attended the Janelia Research Center's holiday party.

Gabriel Homes resident writing thank you cards.
Gabriel Homes resident leading cookie decorations in Reston.

Residents Show Thanks to Staff With Cookies

Lucy (first photo) and Rich (second photo), two residents at Gabriel Homes, went the extra mile during the season of giving. With the assistance of program coordinators Daniel Borges and Naomi Pariona, they baked, decorated, and wrote holiday cards for the residential counselors!

“MindShift isn’t like regular exercise because it’s fun! I feel proud of myself for getting stronger after every session.”

Rich (first photo), Gabriel Homes Resident

See how our residents showed their appreciation

Gabriel Homes staff holding their canvases for the One Word event hosted by Pinot's Palette in Dulles.

Staff Pick One Word to Define Their Year

Gabriel Homes staff kicked off the year at the One Word event hosted by former board member Leslie Kane at Pinot’s Palette. The paint and sip art studio welcomed guests from the community to paint a canvas featuring one word to represent 2026.

See which words our staff chose

Upcoming Dates:

Upcoming dates shown in the February 2026 edition of Gabriel Homes' monthly newsletter, The Treehouse. April 11: All Abilities Block Party. Click this image to RSVP today!

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: FacebookLinkedInInstagramTwitterThreads.

We appreciate donations of any amounts.

Consider making a donation to Gabriel Homes today.

Donate

More stories you may have missed:

The Treehouse: February 2026 Newsletter February 9, 2026 Read More

Residents Show Off Acrobatic Skills at Reston Parkour Gym February 9, 2026 Read More

Announcing: All Abilities Block Party at Lake Anne Plaza in Reston February 6, 2026 Read More

Esther Built Residents’ Confidence at Home February 6, 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

Residents Show Thanks to Staff With Cookie Decorations in Reston January 26, 2026 Read More

Painting Purpose That Connects Us – One Word at Pinot’s Palette Dulles January 23, 2026 Read More

The Treehouse: January 2026 Newsletter January 13, 2026 Read More

Urgent Action Needed to Support Virginian Adults with IDD January 9, 2026 Read More

Residents Embrace December with Travel and Local Events January 2, 2026 Read More

Gabriel Homes Residents Share 2026 New Year’s Resolutions December 29, 2025 Read More

Photo for Residents Show Off Acrobatic Skills at Reston Parkour Gym February 9, 2026 Residents Show Off Acrobatic Skills at Reston Parkour Gym View this Post
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Parkour isn’t just for athletes.

People of all abilities and ages stay active with the sport in fun, adaptable ways. By focusing on balance, strength, and movement, some tailored parkour programs meet participants where they’re at with their fitness.

Gabriel Homes resident doing parkour stunts at MindShift Gym.

Inclusive Parkour Gym

Residents at Gabriel Homes are starting their acrobatic journeys at MindShift Gym, a Reston-based fitness center. The gym specializes in parkour, aerial arts, and acrobatics classes designed for all skill levels. MindShift’s owner joined residents on a recent trip and offered a tour of the gym.

“Sessions with Gabriel Homes residents show how people of all abilities can have fun and benefit from participating in movements of all types. We strive to be a very welcoming environment and meet every individual where they are. Living up to our inclusive values is super easy with residents since they're so engaged with the parkour and dance classes!”

Bill Wotowiec, Owner, MindShift Gym

“MindShift doesn’t look like any other gym! You have to use your whole body to move around the obstacle course. I feel tired after each session, but it’s a great way to start the week!”

Patrick, Resident, Gabriel Homes

Gabriel Homes residents exercising at MindShift Gym.

Inclusive Parkour Gym

The residents’ sessions at MindShift start with some warmups, mostly limbering the arms and legs. Once they loosen up, the residents excitedly look toward tackling the gym’s many obstacle courses. Some lessons include running up ramps and jumping over blocks.

“MindShift isn’t like regular exercise because it’s fun! I feel the same as others who leave the gym: proud of myself and much stronger.” Gabriel Homes resident doing parkour exercises at MindShift Gym in Reston. Rich Gabriel Homes Resident

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Gabriel Homes residents at MindShift Gym, a parkour gym in Reston.
Gabriel Homes resident doing parkour exercises at MindShift Gym in Reston.
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No matter the exercise, the instructor checks that all participants are comfortable and confident at the gym. The instructor reteaches the steps if residents are uncertain how to climb over any objects. Some residents say they appreciate the second set of hands if any exercises are too challenging. 

“The instructors are very nice with all of us! They do the exercises step by step with us so we can climb over all the obstacles. Their parkour skills are great, too; sometimes they show off cool tricks all over the gym.”

January, Resident, Gabriel Homes

Practice Makes Perfect

While some residents stay in shape by going to MindShift every week, others also head to the gym for Special Olympics powerlifting training. See how weekly sessions look for our residents at gabrielhomes.org. See our residents powerlifting

More sports stories at Gabriel Homes:

Powerlifting Residents Crush the Winter Wrecker Tournament December 19, 2025 Read More

Special Olympics Soccer Is a Calling for Athletes October 22, 2025 Read More

Daniel Borges Finishes Under an Hour at Marine Corps 12K in Quantico October 2, 2025 Read More

Kendall Heren: How Volunteering at Special Olympics Changed My Career Path October 1, 2025 Read More

Powerlifters “Pull” off the Impossible at the 2025 Dulles Plane Pull September 25, 2025 Read More

Sarah Carwile: How Special Olympics Impacts My Board Service September 19, 2025 Read More

Special Olympics Softball in Loudoun: Rich’s Risky Move Pays Off July 31, 2025 Read More

Community Corner: Special Olympics Bowling Brings Family & Friends Together April 17, 2025 Read More

Community Corner: The Physical and Mental Benefits of Bowling February 28, 2025 Read More

Special Olympics Powerlifting Champions Return to Practice December 19, 2024 Read More

Photo for Esther Built Residents’ Confidence at Home February 6, 2026 Esther Built Residents’ Confidence at Home View this Post
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Living with independence and dignity can make all the difference in someone’s life.

At Gabriel Homes, residential counselors foster a sense of security while guiding residents through new skills and helping them grow more confident in their daily lives.

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Years of Impact at Gabriel Homes

Esther Eastman Greene worked at Gabriel Homes for 21 years and came to understand each resident’s strengths and needs.

“Our residents always strive for new goals, so I gently pushed them beyond their comfort zone while meeting them where they were,” said Esther. “I cheered them on when they doubted themselves, and their smiles were wide when they accomplished something new.”

Esther Eastman Greene (right) hugging a Gabriel Homes resident (left).

Confidence With Residents

As a residential counselor, staff and residents knew her as a principled, trusted leader. 

“The homes are the residents’ homes,” Esther continued. “You don’t feel at home if somebody comes in and takes over. The residents choose their groceries, do their own housework, and spend their free time however they wish. 

Gabriel Homes resident.

Residents felt comfortable at home when Esther worked with them. One of Esther’s proudest moments at Gabriel Homes was seeing the residents improve their cooking skills. Esther especially pushed residents when she taught them how to slice onions. Once they could cut on their own, residents took pride in safely preparing new meals for their housemates. 

“Esther taught me how to make boiled eggs!” said Rich, a resident at Gabriel Homes. “Her pancakes on Good Friday were incredible. When she wasn’t with us, I was trying to copy her recipe.”

Gabriel Homes residents.

The professional relationships became friendships when Esther was ready to retire. She and the residents grew closer during the height of the pandemic: During staff shortages, Esther stepped in for overnight shifts, and the residents felt safe at home under her leadership.

“Esther was one of the nicest people I ever met!” said Angie (left), a resident at Gabriel Homes. “I felt safe with her during COVID, and she made up fun activities around our home so we never felt lonely.”

In 2024, Esther was inducted into the Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame.

See her bio and learn the stories of all our inductees at gabrielhomes.org. Click Here

Other Hall of Fame Spotlights:

Gabriel Homes Announces Hall of Fame Class of 2025 December 12, 2025 Read More How Fr. Gerry Creedon Put Faith into Action at Gabriel Homes December 9, 2025 Read More Faith Leader in Virginia Is a Father Figure to Many May 28, 2025 Read More
Photo for Shaping a Safe and Welcoming Home for Adults With IDD January 30, 2026 Shaping a Safe and Welcoming Home for Adults With IDD View this Post
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For many families, choosing a place where their loved ones with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) can truly feel at home is one of the most meaningful decisions they ever make.

At Gabriel Homes, our homes are more than a roof and four walls — it’s a place where residents feel safe, independent, and dignified. A home is the laughter shared with friends, the quiet of a favorite spot to relax, and the reassuring sense of belonging.

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Gabriel Homes resident.
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No Place Like Home

Gabriel Homes #3, purchased in 1994, has been a reassuring haven for families seeking safe, comfortable, and dignified living for their family members with IDD. Many residents have called the GH3 home since the moment they moved in. 

Caryn and Shelby, two residents who have lived at GH3 for over 30 years, spend their mornings drinking coffee on the back porch. Chris and Patrick, on the other hand, throw the football in the yard. On snowy days, Patrick bundles up and lies on the ground to make snow angels.

“I can do everything I want here. It’s a comfortable place where I hang out with friends or relax alone.” Gabriel Homes resident. Patrick Gabriel Homes Resident

Independence & Comfort

Another housemate, Sara, agrees with Patrick. She loves how she can spend time on her own at GH3. Her bedroom is on the ground floor, which Sara says allows her to feel independent from those who sleep upstairs.

Gabriel Homes residents celebrating Thanksgiving for adults with IDD.
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“My favorite thing to do at home is read my books. It’s easy to read my collection because little noise gets downstairs.”

Sara, Gabriel Homes Resident
Gabriel Homes #3, a welcoming home for adults with IDD in Herndon and Reston.
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Gabriel Homes plaque "The Alhambra House."
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A Home for People of All Abilities

Gary Le Francois, former director of the infrastructure committee on the board of directors, knows the ins and outs of the home as well as the residents do. Since his son Sam moved into GH3 in 2000, Gary has not only witnessed the home’s transformation — he has also used his decades of experience in the trades to help maintain and renovate it.

“Our homes shouldn’t be maintained any differently because the residents have disabilities. They should look and feel like comfortable, safe homes anybody would walk into.”

Gary Le Francois, Father of a Gabriel Homes Resident

Gabriel Homes has six homes across Herndon and Reston.

Check out the many amenities our homes have in store at gabrielhomes.org. See Our Homes

More Stories About Our Homes:

Shaping a Safe and Welcoming Home for Adults With IDD January 30, 2026 Read More Gabriel Homes Goes All-Out in Christmas Decorations at Home December 23, 2025 Read More Route 7 Brewing Caters Thanksgiving Dinner November 27, 2025 Read More Residents Give Back at Knights of Columbus in Reston November 3, 2025 Read More Gabriel Homes Work Crew Turns Skills Into Service October 20, 2025 Read More
Photo for Residents Show Thanks to Staff With Cookie Decorations in Reston January 26, 2026 Residents Show Thanks to Staff With Cookie Decorations in Reston View this Post
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A modest idea can turn into a meaningful gesture when you work together to surprise the people you care about most.

Finding simple ways to show your appreciation can bring a home even closer together.

Cookie decorations done by Gabriel Homes residents.

Going the Extra Mile

Lucy and Rich, two residents at Gabriel Homes, went the extra mile during the season of giving. With the assistance of program coordinators Daniel Borges and Naomi Pariona, they baked, decorated, and wrote holiday cards for the residential counselors. The team worked on a wide range of cookies, including sugar, gingerbread, and chocolate cookies, and chocolate bark.

“Making cookies was fun because I was giving back to people I care about. We had to manage lots of dishes all over the kitchen, so we had to work as a team putting the gifts together.” Gabriel Homes resident at the 2nd Annual Boo Bash. Lucy Gabriel Homes Resident Gabriel Homes resident leading cookie decorations in Reston.

The Process

Naomi baked the cookies and brought them in trays to Rich’s home to assemble them. The residents and program coordinators formed an assembly line where they passed the cookies and placed them into tin containers for the recipients. To Lucy and Rich’s excitement, there were plenty of leftover cookies. They added extras to everyone’s tins and ate a few themselves.

“Staff are really important to us because they help us as we help them. They’re with us whether we have good or bad days, and they’re here to make us feel more confident about ourselves.” Rich Gabriel Homes Resident Gabriel Homes resident writing thank you cards.

Forever Thankful

After their final touches on the cookie tins, Rich and Lucy wrote cards thanking the staff for their hard work. Rich said he was so appreciative of staff that he would’ve written a million cards if he had the chance.

“I will always remember the way the residents go above and beyond to show their appreciation to us,” said Angela Rivera, a residential counselor at Gabriel Homes who received one of the cookie tins. “The card and tin have a special place in my home because they were such beautiful gestures!”

Learn About Services at Gabriel Homes

Every resident at Gabriel Homes receives personalized support from staff members so they can live comfortably and independently. Learn more about our services at gabrielhomes.org. See Our Services

Our Residents Thriving in the Community:

Residents Embrace December with Travel and Local Events January 2, 2026 Read More

Gabriel Homes Residents Share 2026 New Year’s Resolutions December 29, 2025 Read More

Why 2025 Was One of Angie’s Best Years to Date December 1, 2025 Read More

Route 7 Brewing Caters Thanksgiving Dinner November 27, 2025 Read More

Residents Celebrate Veterans Day in Washington, DC November 25, 2025 Read More

Every Day Is Christmas at Gabriel Homes November 13, 2025 Read More

Residents Give Back at Knights of Columbus in Reston November 3, 2025 Read More

Gabriel Homes Residents Shine at 2nd Annual Boo Bash October 28, 2025 Read More

Residents Catch Sights of the Shenandoah River and Mountains October 27, 2025 Read More

Photo for Painting Purpose That Connects Us – One Word at Pinot’s Palette Dulles January 23, 2026 Painting Purpose That Connects Us – One Word at Pinot’s Palette Dulles View this Post
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Did you know? The words you choose at the start of the year can shape how you approach your goals.

Psychologists say picking positive words (“keep trying”) instead of harsh ones (“don’t mess up”) can better motivate you toward your goals. At Gabriel Homes, staff turned motivation into action by choosing a word to guide their new year.

Gabriel Homes staff holding their canvases for the One Word event hosted by Pinot's Palette in Dulles.

Painting at Pinot’s Palette Dulles

Gabriel Homes staff kicked off the year with a bright outlook during the One Word event hosted by former board member Leslie Kane at Pinot’s Palette. The paint and sip art studio welcomed guests from the community to paint a canvas featuring their chosen word that represented the new year. Many words at past events centered around growth or fresh starts, such as breathe, emergence, and release.

“My word, devotion, is a continuation from pivot, which I used last year. This year will focus more time and energy on my personal and professional pivots. I drew flowers in a vase to represent the devotion it takes to nurture flowers.”

Gwen Murugu, Residential Director, Gabriel Homes
Gabriel Homes staff painting at the One Word event at Pinot's Palette in Dulles.

Similar Themes, Unique Expressions

While the words had similar values, the canvases looked nothing alike. Program coordinator Naomi Pariona also leaned into nature when she painted patience draped over a forest in twilight. Assistant director Mariel Cedeño Edge used earth tones such as brown, mustard, and green, to evoke the strength of a tree trunk for her word, grounded.

“To me, the trunk connects foundation to growth. I look forward to channeling those two qualities throughout the year with our residents.”

Mariel Cedeño Edge, Assistant Director, Gabriel Homes
Gabriel Homes staff (left) and resident (right).

Similar Themes, Unique Expressions

One Word also gave staff a chance to focus on their own creativity and think about their goals for the year. The staff’s canvases reflected their shared sense of purpose. Words like patienceimpact, and forward showed the passion for their work and the care they take for themselves.

“Our guests are wonderful at expressing the best way to live their word choices in their art. The best way to make the One Word workshop your own is to let your creativity flow with your paint.”

Robyn McClure, Owner, Pinot’s Palette Dulles

See Our Residents’ Perspectives on the New Year

Residents at Gabriel Homes talked about their goals when sharing their New Year’s resolutions. See what our residents are looking forward to at gabrielhomes.org. Learn More

More Resident Spotlights:

Residents Embrace December with Travel and Local Events January 2, 2026 Read More Gabriel Homes Residents Share 2026 New Year’s Resolutions December 29, 2025 Read More Why 2025 Was One of Angie’s Best Years to Date December 1, 2025 Read More Route 7 Brewing Caters Thanksgiving Dinner November 27, 2025 Read More Residents Celebrate Veterans Day in Washington, DC November 25, 2025 Read More Every Day Is Christmas at Gabriel Homes November 13, 2025 Read More Residents Give Back at Knights of Columbus in Reston November 3, 2025 Read More Gabriel Homes Residents Shine at 2nd Annual Boo Bash October 28, 2025 Read More Residents Catch Sights of the Shenandoah River and Mountains October 27, 2025 Read More Special Olympics Soccer Is a Calling for Athletes October 22, 2025 Read More Special Olympics Softball in Loudoun: Rich’s Risky Move Pays Off July 31, 2025 Read More Patrick’s Family Reunion in South Carolina July 23, 2025 Read More
Photo for The Treehouse: January 2026 Newsletter January 13, 2026 The Treehouse: January 2026 Newsletter View this Post
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The January 2026 edition of Gabriel Homes’ monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, dives into our residents’ achievements and ambitions in the new year.

Learn about our residents’ new year’s resolutions, the latest inductees into the Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame, and the latest tournament results from our Special Olympics powerlifters. You can delve into all these stories and more in the January 2026 edition of our monthly newsletter, The Treehouse.

Residents Share Their New Year’s Resolutions

As they continue to make their mark throughout Reston, our residents are focused on how they can go above and beyond in 2026. See who has their sights set on health and positivity at gabrielhomes.org.

See all our residents’ resolutions

 

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Pierrein (left), residential counselor, with resident.
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Jim Anderson, member of the Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame class of 2025.
Gabriel Homes resident John H.
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Willie Lemay, member of the 2025 class of the Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame.
Tom Stringer, member of the 2025 class of the Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame.

Gabriel Homes Announces Hall of Fame Class of 2025

At last month's Christmas party, Jim Anderson, John H., Beth Hoyos, Willie Lemay, and Tom Stringer (pictured in order) were inducted to the Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame. The five inductees were honored for their significant, long-lasting impacts on Gabriel Homes.

See photos from the party and read the bios of the class of 2025 at gabrielhomes.org.

Powerlifters Crush the Winter Wrecker Tournament

Competing against athletes of all abilities, Joe (first photo) won first place in the push-pull event. His gold medal came thanks to his combined weight in the bench press and deadlift categories. Sean (second photo) then achieved a personal best when he deadlifted 275 lbs.

“My coaches and I train hard for these tournaments, and I'm proud of myself for winning the gold medal.”

Joe

See highlights from the latest powerlifting tournament

Gabriel Homes resident powerlifting at the Winter Wrecker Tournament.
Gabriel Homes resident powerlifting.
Gabriel Homes resident competing in the 2025 Winter Wrecker Powerlifting tournament.
Cr 2025.12.06 Special Olympics Powerlifting Tourney3

2024.09 Plane Pull 20240830

Services, Housing, and More on the Line in Virginia Legislature

The Arc of Virginia and Northern Virginia warn that without legislative action, people with IDD risk losing supports that make independence possible. 

See the Arc's policy priorities for the Virginia General Assembly in 2026 at gabrielhomes.org.

See how you can support adults with IDD

Gabriel Homes Goes All-Out in Christmas Decorations

Our residents and the Gabriel Homes Work Crew (GHWC) spread the holiday spirit across our homes. While residents decorated their trees and walls indoors, GHWC members trimmed shrubs, cleared leaves, and set up the outdoor lights.

“My hope is the residents feel joy and happiness viewing these beautiful lights on their homes.”

Mike Flynn, GHWC Member
Ao Rr 2025.12.09 Decorations At Gh6118
Ao Rr 2025.12.09 Decorations At Gh642
Ao Rr 2025.12.09 Decorations At Gh620
Gabriel Homes residents setting up Christmas lights.
Ao Rr 2025.12.09 Decorations At Gh675
Ao Rr 2025.12.09 Decorations At Gh671
2025.12.08 Ghwc Christmas Lights110
2025.12.08 Ghwc Christmas Lights107
2025.12.08 Ghwc Christmas Lights134
2025.12.08 Ghwc Christmas Lights79
2025.12.08 Ghwc Christmas Lights83
2025.12.08 Ghwc Christmas Lights142

 

See photos of all the Christmas decor

 

Gabriel Homes residents (center) and staff (left and right) participating in local events in December. Residents attended the Janelia Research Center's holiday party.
Gabriel Homes resident holding a dog in Florida.
2025.12.12 Bull Run Festival Of Lights4
Jw Kg 2025.12 Janelia Holiday Party6
Cc Sg 2025.12.20 Ghi Nutcracker9
2025.12.12 Bull Run Festival Of Lights13
Gabriel Homes resident relaxing at a local pool.
2025.12.12 Bull Run Festival Of Lights35
2025.12.12 Bull Run Festival Of Lights24
Gabriel Homes resident holding artwork up in Florida.

Residents Travel All Over in December

At last month's Christmas party, Jim Anderson, John H., Beth Hoyos, Willie Lemay, and Tom Stringer (pictured in order) were inducted to the Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame. The five inductees were honored for their significant, long-lasting impacts on Gabriel Homes.

See photos from the party and read the bios of the class of 2025 at gabrielhomes.org.

See all our residents’ adventures

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.

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More stories you may have missed:

The Treehouse: January 2026 Newsletter January 13, 2026 Read More

Urgent Action Needed to Support Virginian Adults with IDD January 9, 2026 Read More

Residents Embrace December with Travel and Local Events January 2, 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

Powerlifting Residents Crush the Winter Wrecker Tournament December 19, 2025 Read More

Gabriel Homes Announces Hall of Fame Class of 2025 December 12, 2025 Read More

The Treehouse: December 2025 Newsletter December 10, 2025 Read More

How Fr. Gerry Creedon Put Faith into Action at Gabriel Homes December 9, 2025 Read More

Four Gabriel Homes Board Members Conclude Service at Year’s End December 5, 2025 Read More

Why 2025 Was One of Angie’s Best Years to Date December 1, 2025 Read More

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