In this newsletter, we're celebrating National Make a Friend Day (February 11, 2025).
At Gabriel Homes, our residents are making lifelong friends at their workplaces and in the community. The February 2025 edition of our monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, celebrates lasting relationships. Thank you to everyone who brightens our residents' days by supporting and empowering them.
The Latest...
"All Are Welcome" at Saint John Neumann (SJN)
Residents who attend SJN participate in the Adaptive Religious Education (ARE) program led by George Dellagiarino. Those who lead ARE sessions are close friends with many of the churchgoing residents.
Learn about the many SJN friendships at gabrielhomes.org/stories, and see more photos of our residents by following us on social media.
Learn about the decades of friendships from SJN
Follow us on social media to see more pictures of our residents:
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Close Friends Since Middle School
Kari (left) and January (right) have been close friends since middle school. As housemates at Gabriel Homes, the two have been complimentary and empowering of one another.
See the story of their friendship at gabrielhomes.org/stories.
Read about their lifelong friendship
Chris, John, and Patrick: Housemates and Friends
Patrick (left photo, left), Chris (right photo, left), and John (right photo, right) have lived together for over a decade and do almost everything as a group. The three enjoy birthday parties the most because they get to celebrate each other.
"The best parties are the ones you have with your friends. I'm happy when I can share my birthday cake with everyone."
John, Gabriel Homes Resident
Learn more about the three musketeers at gabrielhomes.org.
Learn about Chris, John, and Patrick
Community Corner
Women, Wine, and One Word at Pinot's Palette
Leslie Kane, director of the marketing and communications committee on the Board of Directors, hosted "Women, Wine, and One Word" at Pinot's Palette in Herndon. Gabriel Homes bonded and learned more about each other through art.
Read about the evening at gabrielhomes.org/stories.
See why staff chose their words
We want to hear from you!
Do you have a favorite memory with Gabriel Homes? Do you have advice for family members? If there's something you've been longing to share, now is your chance! Email Lynn with your story or idea.
Board Spotlight
Cheryl Richardson
The date of the Daytona 500 (February 16, 2025) is driving closer to us! In this newsletter, we spotlight one of our board members, Cheryl Richardson, a racecar driver herself who participates in driving sessions.
Learn more about where Cheryl trains and why racecar driving fuels her competitive side at gabrielhomes.org.
Learn why Cheryl chases thrills on the tracks
Staff Spotlight
Beth Hoyos
For over 27 years, Beth (second to the right) has worked with our residents and developed lasting work relationships. Many residents have come to deeply trust her because she empowers them to reach their independence.
Learn more about Beth's relationships with residents at gabrielhomes.org/stories.
Learn how Beth connects with residents
Reminder!
Let staff know at least 24 hours in advance if you make plans with your family member. Giving Gabriel Homes notice assures us that every resident is taken care of if they’re not home.
Use the on-call phone number or email staff to notify us.
Remember to email us your feedback if you have any questions, suggestions, or ideas for future editions of The Treehouse.
Feel free to send our newsletter to any friends or family who don’t receive it. Share our newsletter sign-up link so they can join today.
Follow Gabriel Homes on all your favorite social media platforms: Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Threads.
We appreciate donations of any amounts.
Consider making a donation to Gabriel Homes today.
More stories you may have missed:
The Treehouse: February 2025 Newsletter January 31, 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
Racecar Driving in Virginia: Cheryl Richardson Preaches Safety January 27, 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
The Treehouse: January 2025 Newsletter January 6, 2025 Read More
NWFCU Supports Gabriel Homes and Celebrates Community January 3, 2025 Read More
dddcdCompany teambuilding events that incorporate art can improve teamwork, boost creativity, and reduce stress.
Art-based teambuilding events can produce shared goals where co-workers learn to better communicate with each other.
Gabriel Homes staff often think on their feet as creative problem-solvers.
At “Women, Wine, and One Word,” an event hosted by Gabriel Homes Board member and Why Not Today podcast host Leslie Kane, guests were creative using paintbrushes and canvases. Guests and Gabriel Homes staff grabbed their smocks and brushes at Pinot’s Palette and painted the word that would best guide them through the new year. The evening was the perfect opportunity for an art-based teambuilding event with Gabriel Homes staff.
“The book The One Word by John Gordon inspired me to host this type of paint and sips. Sports teams and schools wrote one word on basketballs or walls, so I wanted to treat one-word projects like New Year’s resolutions.”
Leslie Kane
Director, Marketing & Communications Committee, Gabriel Homes Board of Directors
Learn more about New Year’s resolutions at Gabriel Homes through residents’ individual support plans.
Gwen Murugu, director of residential services at Gabriel Homes, painted “Pivot” leaping off a lily pad.
She quickly has to adapt to many situations in her position and aimed to embrace change in the new year.
“I pivoted when I was working on my lily pad as well,” Gwen said, laughing. “Coming into the event, I had a vision for my project, but some of my brush strokes didn’t go according to plan. I adjusted to my mistakes and fixed them when I got home.”
Learn more about Gwen
Similarly, Kassi Fretty, a program coordinator at Gabriel Homes, painted “Aspire” using yellow and green colors.
Her bright outlook into the new year inspired her word choice. At the end of the session, she appreciated everyone being supportive of one another.
Like Kassi, Executive Director Lynn Davis targeted positivity and productivity in the new year.
Her word, “Release,” was painted on green, pink, and purple stripes. Releasing physical and mental clutter inspired her to create stress-free environments in 2025.
“The Women, Wine, and One Word workshop is an annual favorite. I personally embrace my word every year. Leslie does such a wonderful job expressing the best way to choose and live everyone's word choice. We have done paint and sips together for over ten years, and we have made lasting connections with our amazing guests.”
Robyn McClure, Pinot's Palette
Did you know one of our residents, Sam, also has a creative eye for art?
See pictures of some of his painted works at gabrielhomes.org/stories.
Meet SamMore community stories:
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
Living with close friends can boost happiness, reduce stress, and defeat loneliness.
Friends can more easily share housework and resolve conflicts, which creates more balanced homes.
Chris (left), John (back), and Patrick (front) are best close friends who live together at Gabriel Homes.
The latter has been a resident the longest. Since the new millennium, Patrick has taken newer residents under his wing and built friendships with everyone.
“I do everything with Chris and John when we’re home,” says Patrick. “We play card games like Crazy 8s and Go Fish, and we throw darts and cheer when we hit bullseyes.”
Birthday parties are favorite events among the gentlemen.
John and Caryn had birthday parties in January with their housemates. Chris and Patrick say they like celebrating with friends and eating special meals like pizza and cake.
“The best parties are the ones you have with your friends,” John says. “I’m happy when I can share vanilla birthday cake with everyone. My favorite part of my birthday was opening my new Tony Bennett CD.”
When they’re not throwing parties...
...the group spends time together at men’s night and powerlifting practices. On those evenings, they watch TV with friends like Gabe and Sam at their home. At training sessions at IMP Fitness, the gentlemen warm up next to each other on treadmills and pull weights in the same group. Chris and John compete in the same weight class, but they cheer each other on at competitions.
“John is a great powerlifter, and he pushes me to be stronger,” Chris says. “Powerlifting is more fun when you train with your friends. I’m proud of how much we’ve gotten stronger.”
Gabriel Homes staff praise Chris, John, and Patrick’s bond as close friends and say they always look out for each other.
“Patrick, John, and Chris are a loyal crew to each other. Everybody likes Patrick, Chris is easygoing, and John is caring for others. They click in a special way.” 
Beth Hoyos Director of Quality Improvement and Clinical Oversight
Gabriel Homes promotes work-life balance where residents can live comfortably, go to work, and participate in their favorite activities.
Learn more about our amenities at gabrielhomes.org. Learn More
A day in the life at Gabriel Homes:
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
Community Corner: The Strength of Employing Adults with IDD November 4, 2024 Read More
Empowering Adults with Disabilities: Angela Rivera’s Journey October 28, 2024 Read More
dddcdRacecar driving, known for its physical demands, often sees breakthroughs in head protection and restraint systems for driver safety.
Like football or hockey, racecar driving has inherent risks, so research and protection are crucial for athletes’ well-being for tournaments.
Education and accessibility to driving ensures athletes at all levels can take to the road feeling safe and confident.
Cheryl Richardson, a member of the Gabriel Homes Board of Directors, leads high-performance driving education (HPDE) at Summit Point Motorsports Park in West Virginia. Education and racing, according to Cheryl, bring her back to her school days as a teacher and high school athlete.
“Driving rekindles my competitive flame and gives me an outlet on the track. The drivers are friendly and collegial people. We may race against our best times, but we’re also working together on becoming better drivers.” 
Cheryl Richardson Gabriel Homes Board of Directors 
Safety is critical on the tracks.
Cars must pass inspections, and drivers must wear helmets and fire protection suits. Some drivers add extra precautions like helmet harnesses so your head doesn’t fly forward or automatic sprinkler systems in case of fires. Staff use a flag system on the tracks, similar to NASCAR, to manage traffic and road incidents. Drivers who break the rules twice are asked to leave.
Because of the many bells and whistles needed to race...
... competitors can spend lots of money on gas, oil, brakes, and tires, among many maintenance costs. Then there’s the time investment. When the rubber hits the road, Cheryl competes at the Virginia International Raceway in Alton, over four hours away from her home. The track is one of Cheryl’s favorites to drive, but she also races on other tracks out of state like ones in Atlanta or New York.
“The Watkins Glen track in New York is gorgeous, but the margin of error on the road is narrow,” Cheryl says. “The walls are closed in and made of concrete, but I enjoy learning how I can master turning on new tracks. NASCAR did a series at Watkins Glen, so I had fun seeing how they drove compared to me.”
Just like Cheryl teaches safety on racetracks, Gabriel Homes also emphasizes safety for residents and staff. Residents use the buddy system and call the on-call number when they leave and return home. Gabriel Homes also teaches residents how to cook safely and be careful around heat, and residents also learn how to safely combine ingredients when they do their laundry.
Cheryl’s passion for driving mirrors the residents’ passion for independence. When she began teaching, she worked with students with disabilities. Her former students left lasting impressions on her. She learned about Gabriel Homes through a networking event and jumped at the chance to serve on the board. Whether she's on the racetrack or with the board, Cheryl dedicates herself to promoting safety and empowerment for everyone.
If you want to know more about Cheryl or meet other athletes who serve our residents, join our board of directors.
Grow your network and learn from leaders like Cheryl by contacting us at gabrielhomes.org. Contact Us
More board spotlights at Gabriel Home:
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
Karen Brings Personal Perspective to Gabriel Homes Board of Directors October 24, 2024 Read More
Passion Into Action August 14, 2024 Read More
Legacies Last Generations at Gabriel Homes July 11, 2024 Read More
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Inclusive religious groups build bonds with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) through quality services, personalized support, and tailored educational programs.
Inclusive religious groups also can promote belonging and advocate for the rights of individuals with IDD.
“All Are Welcome”
Saint John Neumann (SJN) Catholic Church is a shining example of inclusion for people of all abilities. Following its motto, “All Are Welcome,” SJN seeks out how it can help its members find purpose in themselves or seek out ways they can volunteer.
“Our members can use whatever gifts or passions they have, and we find places where they can use them,” says Jo-Ann Duggan, director of outreach at SJN. “All of us are made differently, so we make spaces for everyone to get involved here, like serving at Mass or starting new ministries.”
Education for Everyone
George Dellagiarino, an SJN member, runs the Adapted Religious Education (ARE) program. ARE, inclusive sessions held before Mass every two weeks, teaches the Gospel to people with IDD and connects them to Catholicism. Having become friends with many Gabriel Homes residents through the group, George’s favorite memories with the Gabriel Homes residents in ARE include getting invited to Stephen’s birthday parties, watching football with Chris, and talking about the New York Giants with Rich.
“I see the residents the way God sees them,” George says. “They have talents and are compassionate for everyone. You don’t see their level of compassion in many people.”
From SJN to the Special Olympics
Chris Brasco, another leader of ARE, has been friends with several churchgoing residents for over 25 years. Through SJN, he searched for ways he could serve his community. Working in ARE, Chris quickly befriended the residents in the group and discovered he had lots in common with everyone.
Chris didn’t leave his friendships at church – he also volunteered in Special Olympics softball and golf. He once joined Dave and Rich for the Virginia Special Olympics softball states competition, where their team won gold medals.
“Over the years, my involvement with the residents evolved into friendships,” Chris says. “We meet before Mass, talk about our lives, and eat breakfast together.”
Chris continues: “They’re an important part of our community because they’re involved everywhere. Chris Y. shakes everyone’s hands at socials, and Rich welcomes every new member at the Knights of Columbus and church choir.”
Members: The Lifeblood of the Church
A banner hangs at SJN reading a quote from St. Francis de Sales: “Be who you are and be that well.” Jo-Ann says those who join church shouldn’t change who they are to try to be accepted. SJN continues to find ways where adults of all abilities, like the Gabriel Homes residents, can be included.
“Going to SJN is my favorite part of the weekend,” says Lucy, a resident at Gabriel Homes. “I like being involved at ARE, and George and Chris are great leaders and friends.”
At Gabriel Homes, our community rallies around and celebrates our residents’ journeys toward independence.
Join us by signing up for our monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, at the bottom of our home page.
Sign up for The Treehouse dddcd
Lifelong friendships can make you happier and lower your risk of developing chronic diseases.
Many who keep in contact with old best friends, whether from preschool, middle school, college, or later, can improve long-term well-being and support.
Foundation of Their Friendship
Two social butterflies at Gabriel Homes, Kari (left) and January (right), have been best friends since middle school. The duo shared many classes and got to know each other by doing schoolwork together and chatting in the hallways. They were also in the same graduation class at McLean High School.
“After high school, we didn’t see each other as much, but we talked on the phone almost every day,” Kari says. “We would talk for hours about Special Olympics.”
Friendship on and off the Field
January and Kari competed on the same teams in Special Olympics sports, namely soccer and basketball. Coach Pat, one of their teachers, led one of their sports. The two felt they got to know a different side of their coach on the field compared to the classroom.
“We had lots of fun playing in the Special Olympics,” January says. “We became friends with a lot of cool people at matches, and playing together brought Kari and me closer.”
Gabriel Homes Strengthens Their Bonds
Kari was a resident at Gabriel Homes for over a dozen years before January arrived. Since January’s move-in, the two have taken the next step in their friendship by becoming housemates. When they get home from their shifts at ECHO, they and their housemates split household duties around the house, from cooking to cleaning and more.
Living together, January and Kari enjoy playing various games to this day. January’s favorite game is Uno because of the card game’s fast pace, while Kari’s is Candyland thanks to the colorful board and pieces.
“Kari and January are such good friends over 20 years later because they’re different from each other. January is outgoing and always positive, while Kari is much quieter. Both are supportive and complimentary of each other, and their praises make the other feel good about themselves.”
Linda, Kari’s Mom
If you’re looking for a place where lifelong friendships flourish, Gabriel Homes is the perfect spot.
Visit gabrielhomes.org to apply and see if you’re eligible to be a resident.
More resident spotlights:
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
Gabriel Homes Celebrates Thanksgiving for Adults With IDD November 27, 2024 Read More
“I’m Thankful For:” Gabriel Homes Residents Show Their Thanks November 21, 2024 Read More
Gabriel Homes Residents Get COVID-19 and Flu Vaccines November 14, 2024 Read More
Special Olympics Soccer Shines With January November 7, 2024 Read More
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Building trust with and empowering adults with intellectual developmental disabilities (IDD) is crucial for everyone’s success.
At Gabriel Homes, we strive to provide independent, fulfilling lives for our residents.
Beth Hoyos joined Gabriel Homes in 1998 when she was in school for her Master of Social Work.
Many residents were comfortable with Beth because she previously worked at Adult Social Club. Throughout the 27 years the residents have known Beth, they've come to deeply trust her. Beth builds meaningful relationships with the residents and empowers them to achieve greater independence and well-being.
Gabriel Homes had the opportunity to sit with Beth and learn about her relationships with our residents. Learn about her strategies for building meaningful bonds with over 20 residents across our six homes.
Optionally, you can read the Q&A below using the dropdown menu.
What’s the story of your progression from your first role at Gabriel Homes to where you are today?
“I started with Gabriel Homes while working on my master’s. The weekend work was helpful, and I already knew several residents. From group therapy to individual counseling, I saw myself taking on more responsibilities. I worked my way up over the years and got involved on the administrative side, and I took on the chance to step into a leadership role. My career wasn’t something I saw myself doing at first, but I could never leave Gabriel Homes and the residents behind.”
What’s the key to working and building trust in residential care?
“My job is developing trusting relationships with our residents and their families. I couldn’t possibly be productive with residents or their families if I didn’t develop positive, trusting relationships with them. Over time, my relationships with residents feel like friendships. There were nights where I spent more time with them than my family, and I learned so much about them when I took them to appointments.”
Follow-Up: How do you prefer to connect with the residents?
“One-on-one relationships build the tightest bonds, but I enjoy individual and group situations either way. I have fun with the residents when we’re volunteering at the golf tournament, but like I said, I value the personal time during medical appointments. Residents give more direct answers riding in the car with them because they know I’m there but don’t have to look me in the eye.”
How do you balance professionalism and friendship in your work relationships?
“Having elements of friendship with the residents is part of the job. Friends count on you, listen to you, be with you during hard times, and laugh with you. My relationships with residents are the same as with my friends in many ways.”
How do you aim to be a role model for residents?
“You can’t say, ‘Do as I say, not as I do.’ Nobody buys into that line of thinking. Residents know when you’re asking them to do something you don’t do. In my role, I set positive examples for them and acknowledge when I need to improve.”
Follow-Up: What was a case where you were consistent and set a positive tone?
“Sometimes I took several residents to church on Sundays. When I told them they had to dress nicely for Mass, I dressed the same way. I may not have worn an Armani suit, but I dressed like I was going to church.”
How have you seen residents become more empowered or independent over time?
“Residents naturally age, mature, and become more independent over time. When they pack their lunches or take care of their household and personal responsibilities, they take pride in and feel better about themselves. I see every resident walk taller and speak more confidently today.”
What major life lesson have you learned from the residents?
“The residents have taught me so much over time. I’ve learned to be patient and calm when someone is trying to push my buttons, and I’ve become more punctual and not push tasks off. When life-changing events like COVID have come, I’ve spoken more directly about how Gabriel Homes is adapting, and I’ve been more comfortable discussing topics like grief with residents. Being straightforward is often the best way to communicate with them, even if the subjects are uncomfortable.”
At Gabriel Homes, staff work together to build brighter futures for our residents.
Learn how Gabriel Homes invests in developing trust in residential care and strengthening leadership skills at gabrielhomes.org/stories. gabrielhomes.org/storiesA Day in the Life at Gabriel Homes:
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 Community Corner: The Strength of Employing Adults with IDD November 4, 2024 Read More Empowering Adults with Disabilities: Angela Rivera’s Journey October 28, 2024 Read More Gabriel Homes Enjoys Local Ice Cream at MooThru Herndon October 16, 2024 Read More Gwen Murugu: Champion of Independence at Gabriel Homes October 4, 2024 Read More dddcd
The Latest...
New Year, New Job: Caryn Thrives at Ellmore Farmhouse
Caryn started a new job at Ellmore Farmhouse at Frying Pan Park late last year. Since getting comfortable with ServiceSource staff and coworkers, she's taken the lead on serving concessions to customers.
Read more about Caryn's new job at at gabrielhomes.org/stories.
More on Caryn and Ellmore Farmhouse
ISPs: The "New" New Year's Resolutions
Individual Support Plans (ISPs) are like roadmaps for each resident. Like New Year's resolutions, ISPs are goals that set out to improve people's lives.
Learn more about ISPs and how they make a difference for our residents at gabrielhomes.org.
Learn about ISPsDo 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 Shows Off New Holiday Looks!
Our residents gave their homes fresh, festive looks when they decorated their homes for the holidays. From Frosty the Snowman to Grinch themes, every house you entered became a Winter Wonderland.
See dozens of pictures and read more about every house's theme at gabrielhomes.org.
Check out our residents' Christmas decorations
Powerlifters Kick Off New Season of Special Olympics Powerlifting
Fresh from their success in winning state championships and pulling a plane, our powerlifting residents are training for the new season.
"After getting first place in powerlifting, I'm excited to get better and win again!"
-Joe, Gabriel Homes resident and Special Olympics powerlifter
Community Corner
Northwest Federal Credit Union Foundation Donates Commanders Scarves to Residents
By Alicia Liddle, former board member
In our first community-written article, read about NWFCU, the Kane family, and why NWFCU is a proud partner of Gabriel Homes.
Check out our residents' Christmas decorationsWe 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
New Could Be You!
Looking to get involved with Gabriel Homes? Join our Board of Directors! The board oversees resources, strategic planning, and more.
We sat down with Board Chair Michele Bolos to talk about the benefits of serving on the board and answer and pressing questions you may have. Check out our interview at gabrielhomes.org/stories.
See why you should join our boardStaff Spotlight
Gabriel Homes Staff Included in Hall of Fame Class of 2024
Reuben, our senior residential counselor, and Esther, a former residential counselor, were inducted with former board member Kathleen Connolly as the Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame class of 2024.
Meet our newest inducteesReminder!
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: January 2025 Newsletter January 6, 2025 Read More NWFCU Supports Gabriel Homes and Celebrates Community January 3, 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 New Could Be You! Why You Should Join Our Board of Directors December 18, 2024 Read More Gabriel Homes Residents Decorate Their Homes for Christmas 2024 December 12, 2024 Read More Gabriel Homes Announces Hall of Fame Class of 2024 December 6, 2024 Read More How Donations for House Maintenance Help Gabriel Homes December 3, 2024 Read More The Treehouse: December 2024 December 2, 2024 Read More Community Corner: Special Olympics Coaches’ Impact December 1, 2024 Read More Gabriel Homes Celebrates Thanksgiving for Adults With IDD November 27, 2024 Read More Young Professionals Revitalize Nonprofit Boards November 25, 2024 Read More dddcd
Northwest Federal Credit Union (NWFCU) has long been dedicated to supporting organizations within our community.
Our belief is that everyone has something valuable to contribute. By empowering individuals and enriching the lives of families, NWFCU strives to make a meaningful impact.
Proudly Partnered With Gabriel Homes
We are proud to continue supporting the great work done by Gabriel Homes, Inc. (GHI) through event sponsorships, financial assistance, and even special gifts for their Christmas celebrations. To celebrate the holiday season, we’re gifting Washington Commanders/NWFCU scarves to bring warmth and joy to the families we serve.
“I’ve built strong relationships with Alicia and others at NWFCU through the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce. NWFCU made genuine efforts to reach out to Gabriel Homes to support us using their banking products and the work of their foundation.“It’s amazing to see how much NWFCU invests in the community and the pride each employee takes in their work.”
Lynn Davis
Executive Director, Gabriel Homes
NWFCU’s commitment to community support comes from a place of deep personal significance.
When my youngest sister was born with Down syndrome in 1982, it marked a pivotal moment in our family’s journey. She opened our eyes to the world of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
From that moment on, we were blessed to witness firsthand how truly remarkable they are. While the medical community may often define them by their disabilities, we have learned to celebrate their unique abilities and incredible potential they hold.
NWFCU Celebrates Everyone in the Community!
I am honored to be part of an organization like NWFCU, where community support and the celebration of diversity are woven into the fabric of our work. As we continue to empower others and support organizations like GHI, we remain committed to making a positive difference in the lives of individuals and families, both today and in the future.
See how NWFCU makes a difference across our community!
For more information about Northwest Federal Credit Union’s community involvement, visit nwfcu.org.
Learn More dddcd
Job hunting experts say employees most often start new jobs in January and February.
Fresh hiring budgets and momentum from New Year resolutions drive the hiring trends for job seekers.
One Gabriel Homes resident, Caryn, started a new job at Ellmore Farmhouse at Frying Pan Park.
ServiceSource, a nonprofit serving adults with disabilities, was awarded a grant to restore the house and provide employment opportunities.
Employees at Ellmore Farmhouse work in customer service at the Blossom Café and the Blossom Gift Shop. At the café, staff serve food and drinks, while in the gift shop, they manage retail sales. Caryn’s favorite item to serve is her drink of choice, coffee. Coffee orders are prepared by loading cups into the coffee machine, pressing the buttons for the amount, and securing the lids before serving them.
“I like working at the Blossom Café and meeting customers. I bring the food and drinks to them, and I ring them up on the tablet when they pay.”
Caryn, Gabriel Homes Resident
Years of Mentorship
Caryn’s manager, Kenny Smith, has worked with her at previous vocational programs. Since helping her onboard at Ellmore, Kenny has been proud of her growth working in customer service.
“Starting a new job is a transition for everyone,” says Kenny. “Caryn’s eager to participate at her job and is responsive to staff when they teach her the work.”
Come Visit Ellmore Farmhouse at Frying Pan Park!
Since Ellmore Farmhouse’s launch, the ServiceSource team is looking forward to spreading the word and getting new customers at the stores.
“When people see what our employees do, they keep coming back,” says Amy Kreischer (back), community integration specialist at ServiceSource. “They see Caryn in action and know she’s part of their community. Ellmore is in a special part of Herndon since it’s in Frying Pan Park, which attracts thousands of visitors each week. So stop by and say hello after seeing the farm animals!”
All residents at Gabriel Homes go to work or a vocational program during the day.
If you’re interested in becoming a resident at Gabriel Homes, see what you need to qualify at gabrielhomes.org.
A slice of life starring our residents:
Special Olympics Powerlifting Champions Return to Practice December 20, 2024 Read More
New Year, New Job: Caryn Thrives at Ellmore Farmhouse December 19, 2024 Read More
Gabriel Homes Residents Decorate Their Homes for Christmas 2024 December 12, 2024 Read More
Community Corner: The Strength of Employing Adults with IDD November 4, 2024 Read More
Empowering Adults with Disabilities: Angela Rivera’s Journey October 28, 2024 Read More
Gabriel Homes Enjoys Local Ice Cream at MooThru Herndon October 16, 2024 Read More
Gwen Murugu: Champion of Independence at Gabriel Homes October 4, 2024 Read More
Sisters Share Their Passion for Animals August 13, 2024 Read More
Finding Purpose: Chris’ Journey of Faith and Service August 8, 2024 Read More