Photo for Special Olympics Powerlifting Champions Return to Practice

December 19, 2024 Special Olympics Powerlifting Champions Return to Practice View this Post

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After sweeping state championships and pulling a plane, Gabriel Homes’ powerlifters are training for the 2025 season.

Returning to Special Olympics powerlifting practice, residents are excited to push their limits and reach new weight benchmarks.

Practice Makes Perfect

Athletes train every week at IMP Fitness in Fairfax. Coaches like Bill Whiteside, Tim Figueroa, and Xandra Varisco, have worked with Gabriel Homes powerlifters for years. Each coach knows the athletes’ limits well and knows when they have opportunities to challenge them.

“This season, I’m teaching the powerlifters more about having proper techniques and controlling their weights,” says Coach Bill. “Athletes have to listen to the commands and have control of their bodies simultaneously. When they’re holding heavy weights, balancing technique and control can be difficult.”

Taking Feedback to Heart

One resident, Joe, is taking cues from Coaches Bill and Tim on his form. After sweeping first prize in bench press, deadlifts, and combinations, he’s working on increasing his weights and squatting lower when he holds them.

“Joe and I are proud of our medals in our weight classes. I’m excited for the new season and ready to defend my titles.” John Gabriel Homes Resident and Powerlifting Champion

Gabriel Homes resident and Special Olympics powerlifting champion at practice.

Congratulations, Sean!

Another resident, Sean, reaches a personal milestone this season. 2024-25 marks his 25th year doing Special Olympics powerlifting. Sean says his favorite part of powerlifting is doing the bench presses because he feels strong when he does them.

“Special Olympics is a huge part of my life,” says Sean. “The coaches are tough but nice people. I get better at powerlifting every year thanks to their help.”

The Powerlifting Team Grows

One rookie coach, Coach Sam Templitz (top), is a fresh face at powerlifting trainings for the residents. He describes himself as a motivator to the athletes by making them feel confident and cheering them on when they reach personal records.

“I’m most excited to see the joy on the athletes’ faces,” Coach Sam says. “Everyone gets energized during practice and events, so they make me feel the same way when I support them.”

More Powerlifting Teams, More Competition Than Ever

Many local Special Olympics teams folded during the pandemic in 2020. Now that competitions are back in full force, Special Olympics powerlifting teams are popping up across Northern Virginia. As a result, powerlifters have more opportunities to compete locally than before. The first competition ahead is against a team in Prince William County.

“I care most about the fact that the powerlifters can compete again,” says Coach Bill. “Our athletes are excited and ready for all the challenges ahead of them.”

Want to know how our residents stay in shape for sports all year long?

See our residents’ highlight reels at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Check Out More Sports Stories

Other Resident Spotlights:

Special Olympics Powerlifting Champions Return to Practice December 17, 2024 Read More

Special Olympics Powerlifting Champions Return for 2025 Season December 17, 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

Photo for New Could Be You! Why You Should Join Our Board of Directors

December 18, 2024 New Could Be You! Why You Should Join Our Board of Directors View this Post

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When you join a board of directors, you expand your network, become a more confident leader, and make a difference for causes you care about.

Gabriel Homes Board of Directors Chair Michele Bolos (left) with a resident (right).

Gabriel Homes Board Member Karen Chapman (left) with a resident (right).

Gabriel Homes Board Member Gary Le Francois (center) with residents (left and right).

Gabriel Homes Board Member Shalini Kapur (left) with Executive Director Lynn Davis (right).

Gabriel Homes board members Cheryl Richardson (left) and Karen Chapman (right).

Gabriel Homes Board Member Jack Mannion (right) with golf tournament attendee.

Joining Our Board of Directors:

At Gabriel Homes, our dedicated all-volunteer Board of Directors brings out the best in aspiring professionals. Diverse members of high character, integrity, and passion help carry out our mission of independence for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Don’t worry if you’re new to board service: Our team supports and guides all new members to showcase their strongest skills and become local trailblazers.

Gabriel Homes sat down with Chair Michele Bolos to discuss why you should join our board and how you can make a difference for our residents. Here’s what she had to say:

What makes Gabriel Homes the best board to serve on?

“The dedicated board and committee members make the board a special one to serve on. We have a lot of longstanding talented people who serve Gabriel Homes.”

How does serving on the Gabriel Homes board allow you to make a tangible difference in your community?

“Gabriel Homes’ mission from day one is to develop independence and community integration for our residents. I live in the same community as our residents, and I shop at the stores that they work at. So, when I serve Gabriel Homes, I serve my neighbors. What better way to make my community the best it can be.”

How is the board responsible for strategic decision making?

“The board's responsibility is to set the strategic direction of Gabriel Homes. The strategy is a living document that we address and measure every quarter to ensure that the organization stays on path.”

Follow-Up: What are some examples of board-driven success at Gabriel Homes that's kept the organization on path?

“The board recently created a new website to tell our story to a wider audience. We want future families to understand what our organization does for their loved ones if they choose to live in our homes.”

How does serving on the board develop professional and personal skills?

“The board involves members in policies, governance, management, and developing vision. Members don't always come with these skill sets, but there is an opportunity to learn as you serve.”

Follow-Up: How can I bring my unique skills to the table at Gabriel Homes?

“There is an opportunity for members who have skills in policy writing, governance, management, marketing, event planning, and health related issues with the IDD community. If you have a gift in these areas, we have opportunities on our board of directors.”

Follow-Up: Are there opportunities for mentorship or leadership development within the board?

“The board strives to offer leadership positions and development to anyone willing to volunteer their time to our mission. There are many committees you can join and executive board positions you can lead like Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, and/or Treasurer.”

Some worry they don’t have enough experience to serve on boards. How would you respond to those concerns?

“Anyone who has the gift of time can serve on a board of directors. The board members of Gabriel Homes have created charters for the board and each committee so you will know what service means if you commit. As a board member, you will learn about the different aspects of serving on a board, and our leaders will teach you what you need to know.”

How can I join the board?

“If you have an interest in board work, please fill out the Contact Us form at gabrielhomes.org. Someone from the board of directors will contact you to teach you about the different opportunities we offer.”

Are you ready to join the Gabriel Homes Board of Directors?

Fill out a short interest form at gabrielhomes.org, and a member from the board will be in touch with you.

Join Our Board

Meet the members on our board:

New Could Be You! Why You Should Join Our Board of Directors December 12, 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

Photo for Gabriel Homes Residents Decorate Their Homes for Christmas 2024

December 12, 2024 Gabriel Homes Residents Decorate Their Homes for Christmas 2024 View this Post

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75% of U.S. households decorate their homes for Christmas – and Gabriel Homes residents are no exception!

Fresh from celebrating Thanksgiving, residents decorated their homes for Christmas 2024 by hanging lights and tinsel and putting up trees in their living rooms. Some residents decorated their homes with themes in mind, and all went the extra mile when producing their spectacles.

“Dave and I did a Grinch theme for our house. All of our decorations were red and green, so the Grinch was perfect since he’s green and one of our favorite Christmas characters.”

Gabriel Homes resident having decorated his home for Christmas 2024.

Rich D. Gabriel Homes Resident

Gabriel Homes resident with his Christmas 2024 decorated home.

More Christmas 2024 decorations!

John H. and Rich R., two housemates at Gabriel Homes, did a Frosty the Snowman theme. Beyond using lights and tinsel, the two also placed snowmen all over their living room. Frosty lived on tables and across the floor. Most importantly, their Christmas tree was white to represent snow, and snowman ornaments covered it from top to bottom.

Gabe, Joe, John B., Sam, Sean, and Stephen combined themes when decorating their home. Red, blue, green, white, and gold lights shone across their tree while Frosty and Grinch stockings rested on their tables. And for one silly touch, on their dinner table sat the Grinch playing the trombone.

Gabriel Homes decorating their homes for Christmas 2024.

Colors and Lights Spectacles

Angie and Chris Y., another duo at Gabriel Homes, used a green and blue theme for their decorations. Their tree, covered in green and blue ornaments of all sizes, was adorned with a blue snowflake on top. Chris Y.’s stocking was the centerpiece on the mantle, and dangling snowflakes next to it helped it pop.

“I want to give a huge thanks to my sister. She helped my housemates and me with putting up all our decorations. Our home looks amazing because of her.”
Darcy, Gabriel Homes Resident

Caryn, Chris, R., John G., Patrick, Sara, and Shelby were dreaming of a white Christmas.

On their mantle hung white stockings for each resident, and mini trees and angels rested on top of the stockings. White mistletoes also hung on many of the walls in their shared spaces.

Whether or not you decorate for Christmas in 2024 as much as our residents do, Gabriel Homes wishes you a wonderful holiday season and a Happy New Year.

If you want to learn more about Christmas at Gabriel Homes...

... catch up on our Christmas party, which included inductions into the Hall of Fame.

Check Out the Gabriel Homes Christmas Party

Gabriel Homes, Inc. (GHI), a nonprofit organization promoting independence for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD)...

... announces three inductees to the Hall of Fame as the class of 2024. The Hall of Fame celebrates those whose contributions to Gabriel Homes are significant, substantial, and long-lasting.

Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame class of 2024 inductees. From left to right: Esther Eastman Greene, Reuben Sidifall, Kathleen Connally.

Meet Our Inductees

Representing staff and the board of directors, the following inductees are responsible for empowering residents and creating an inclusive community. The esteemed members of the 2024 class of the GHI Hall of Fame include:

Kathleen Connolly, former GHI board member

Esther Eastman Greene, former GHI residential counselor

Reuben Sidifall, GHI residential counselor

Kathleen Connolly

Connolly, the parent of a former resident at GHI, is a former longtime board member. One of her greatest achievements was being one of the pioneers of the annual Golf Tournament. Her daughter Sarah brought great joy and leadership when she was a resident at Gabriel Homes, and staff and residents often cheer her praises to this day.

“Kathleen, with her family and friends, strengthened our board through everyone’s generosity and expertise,” said Monsignor Bob Cilinski, former president of Gabriel Homes. “She is a champion of life and sees the worth in every person.”

Esther Eastman Greene

Greene worked with GHI for 21 years as a residential counselor. In her tenure, she worked with residents at every home. Greene covered overnight shifts during COVID, and the residents built trust with her through shared accountability and respect.

“I’ve liked how Esther has always been so nice,” says Angie, a Gabriel Homes resident. “Esther and I have known each other for a long time, and she’s always understood me. We’ve always gotten along well.”

Reuben at the 2024 Direct Support Provider of the Year (DSPY) Awards.

Reuben Sidifall

Sidifall, a senior residential counselor, has been with GHI since 1997. He has built strong bonds and relationships with all the residents and has put together trips and vacations for them. Supporting residents through grief and cheering on their achievements, Sidifall has long been considered the North Star of the GHI team for earning everyone’s trust.

“Reuben is a great guy,” says Sean, another resident. “He always helps me when I make dinner for my housemates and makes sure I clean every dish after we eat.”

Inductions were held at the Christmas party at the Reston Community Center. Over 100 guests, including residents, families, staff, the board, and others close to GHI, joined Chair Michele Bolos and Executive Director Lynn Davis in commemorating the inductees.

“I am honored to have been inducted into the Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame. This honor was possible because of the dynamic partnership existing between the residents and me over the years. Seeing the residents grow and develop in attaining their goals of independent living has motivated me in helping to accomplish the mission of Gabriel Homes. To the residents of Gabriel Homes, I share this honor with you.”
Reuben Sidifall, Senior Residential Counselor

I am deeply honored by this recognition. Gabriel Homes holds a special place in my heart.

Thanks to Board and Staff of Gabriel Homes for acknowledging my contributions to our residences. My time spent working in our Homes felt more like spending time with family, and I will always cherish those moments.
Esther Greene

Explore the Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame and meet all classes.

Learn more about the Hall of Fame and our past inductees at gabrielhomes.org.

Learn More

Photo for How Donations for House Maintenance Help Gabriel Homes

December 3, 2024 How Donations for House Maintenance Help Gabriel Homes View this Post

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Budgeting experts say home maintenance can cost you over $6,500 a year.

With costs at record highs and six homes across Reston and Herndon, Gabriel Homes can expect to spend over $39,000 on house repairs each year.

Where your donations for house maintenance make a difference

The rising costs mean your donations make a difference in the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Supporting Gabriel Homes means we can make essential fixes that make residents’ homes safer and more comfortable.

If you want to see how your donations make a difference, here are some success stories of how they impact our residents today:

Renovations:

Our bathrooms had complete makeovers. Old bathtubs and sliding glass doors, which often broke, were removed. Residents had a hard time stepping into tubs to shower, so easy-to-use showers with low-lipped entrances replaced them to accommodate residents who have depth perception difficulties.

Shower controls were also moved to lower spots so residents could control the water temperature before stepping into the shower.

Gabriel Homes renovated bathroom, made possible by donations for house maintenance.

Electrical and Aesthetic Improvements:

All electric outlets and switches were replaced so powered items would be safer to use. Then the walls and ceilings got painted and patched, and new ceramic tiles gave the bathrooms a cleaner, more modern appeal. These improvements made bathrooms more comfortable and appealing for the residents to use.

A New Roof:

One of our homes had water leaking from the roof. Fortunately, the leaks didn’t affect the residents, but Gabriel Homes took swift action to prevent further damage to the house. The new roof installed by Passmore Contracting is expected to last over 30 years. Passmore’s renovations were so exceptional that we had four more roofs replaced across our homes. Donations for house maintenance mean our residents can live comfortably and independently, free to focus on their goals instead of maintenance.

“It’s our responsibility to make sure projects are safe and done right. The new roof will function well for years to come, and now we can move on to new projects.”

Gabriel Homes Board Member Gary doing home renovations for Gabriel Homes.

Gary Le Francois Gabriel Homes Board Member

House maintenance for Gabriel Homes, made possible by donations.

Thank you for your donations for our critical house renovations.

Because of your support, our residents can focus on their goals and live independently. Every donation helps create a better, more inclusive community for everyone. Consider making the gift of a donation to continue making a difference in the lives of our residents. Donate

December 2, 2024 The Treehouse: December 2024 View this Post

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Help us meet our goal this Giving Tuesday!

Because of your donations, we were able to renovate seven bathrooms to make them safer for our residents.

Residents now have easy-to-use shower units and long-lasting roofs over their heads — all because of you.

Thank you for your continued support to Gabriel Homes. Please give the gift of a donation so we can continue maintaining our homes and helping residents achieve their dreams.

Consider the gift of a donation.

Empower our residents this Giving Tuesday for many years to come. Donate

The Latest...

Gabriel Homes resident playing Special Olympics soccer.

January Shines in Special Olympics Soccer

Playing for the Fairfax Diamonds, January is gearing up for the state finals for Special Olympics soccer. She mostly plays forward (known as a striker) and takes feedback to heart from Coaches Tana and Jonathan.

More on January and Special Olympics Soccer

Gabriel Homes residents at MooThru Herndon for an ice cream social.

Gabriel Homes Enjoys Local MooThru Ice Cream

Residents got a tour of the store and learned about the differences between hard- and soft-served ice cream. Many of the toppings residents saw ended up in their bowls after seeing them up close!

See photos from the ice cream social at gabrielhomes.org, and catch up on more photos by following us on social media!

Read about the ice cream social Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter Threads

Gabriel Homes resident enjoying local ice cream at the MooThru in Herndon.

Gabriel Homes resident enjoying local ice cream at MooThru in Herndon.

Gabriel Homes getting a tour at MooThru Herndon.

Gabriel Homes residents celebrating Thanksgiving for adults with IDD.

Happy Thanksgiving From Our Residents!

Before residents left for the long holiday to see friends and family, Gabriel Homes brought everyone together for a Thanksgiving dinner. Many residents were looking forward to the night all week , and some took the day off work to help decorate.

Learn more about the residents' favorite dishes at gabrielhomes.org.

Learn More

Thanksgiving decorations at Gabriel Homes.

Infographic of what Gabriel Homes residents are thankful for ahead of Thanksgiving.

What were residents thankful for this Thanksgiving?

Our residents show their thanks in ways as diverse as they are. The chart breaks down what residents are thankful for, with some sharing thanks for multiple things.

See what our residents are thankful for at gabrielhomes.org.

Community Corner

Gabriel Homes residents powerlifting tournament.

Special Olympics Coaches Learn From Their Athletes

“I learn a lot about myself through coaching. Our athletes may have disabilities, but they don’t hold themselves back. They’re ready to lift, and they’re having fun doing it. We all should learn from them as role models.”

-Coach Bill Whiteside, Powerlifting

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

Sarah Carwile

Director of the Finance Committee, Sarah (right) is a CPA who has a personal passion for IDD advocacy.

“I got involved in the Special Olympics when I was young. Two of my neighbors had IDD, so they inspired me to volunteer for the Special Olympics as a swim and soccer coach.”

-Sarah

Meet Sarah

Staff Spotlight

Gabriel Homes staff at leadership development retreat.

Gabriel Homes Holds Leadership Development Workshop

Gabriel Homes recently held a staff retreat led by Donna Pearring, a leadership development consultant and founder of The DMP Group.

Since Gabriel Homes’ staff grew in 2024, the focus was on learning each other’s strengths and communication styles and using a communication model for clear goals and mutual understanding.

Learn about our workshop

Upcoming Dates:

Dec. 3: Giving Tuesday (gabrielhomes.org/donate). Dec. 5: Gabriel Homes Christmas Party and Hall of Fame Announcements.

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.

Donate

Special Olympics coaches can transform athletes’ lives by helping them to build their physical strength and personal growth.

At Gabriel Homes, many of our residents compete in many Special Olympics sports, from powerlifting to soccer to softball and more.

Some of our residents are state and national champions in their sports. Gold, silver, and bronze medals decorate many residents’ bedrooms. Their success is partly thanks to the Special Olympics coaches who challenge them every week.

Gabriel Homes reached out to Special Olympics coaches on how they coach and what success means to the athletes. Here’s what they had to say:

How do you push the athletes to challenge themselves physically?

“You have to be able to read the athletes and try to decode how they’re feeling. Some days, you can see they’re ready to go, and you can push them further. They’re usually excited to do the weights, even if they don’t know how many pounds they’re lifting. Our job as coaches becomes giving them as much weight as we think they can do.”

Coach Seth Abrams (right): Powerlifting

How have you and the athletes grown together through the Special Olympics?

“I’ve grown with the players I’ve coached thanks to the camaraderie and shared experiences at tournaments. We’ve taken long car rides, and we talk about our lives when we’re driving. The players and I are lifelong friends now, and we help each other when someone needs support.”

Coach Marc Egan (back): Softball

What’s your favorite memory of the Special Olympics?

“One of my favorite things every Special Olympics is during the athletes’ oath and the National Anthem. At Special Olympics events, all the athletes love to sing the Star-Spangled Banner while it’s playing. There is no greater symbol of unity and joy than seeing everyone singing together.”

Coach Sarah Carwile (right): Swimming, Soccer

What’s it like seeing the looks on the players’ faces after matches?

“The looks on everyone’s faces are something you never forget. Special Olympics athletes take great pride in their efforts. They walk taller, too, because they’re proud of themselves. Their faces show pure joy, something you only see in the Special Olympics.”

Coach Tana Leasure (back): Soccer

How do you push the athletes to challenge themselves physically?

“I learn a lot about myself through coaching. Our athletes may have disabilities, but they don’t hold themselves back. They’re ready to lift, and they’re having fun doing it.

“When I run into everyday problems, I think about how our players do incredible things in the Special Olympics. We all should learn from them as role models.”

Coach Bill Whiteside (center): Powerlifting

Now that you’ve gotten to know our coaches...

... see highlights of our residents competing in the Special Olympics at gabrielhomes.org/stories.

Thanksgiving fosters social connections, strengthens skills, and promotes emotional well-being for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Before residents left for the long holiday to see friends and family, Gabriel Homes brought everyone together for a Thanksgiving dinner for adults with IDD.

Many residents were looking forward to the night all week.

Some even changed their schedules so they could help with setup. One resident, Dave, took the day off work to help decorate the house for Thanksgiving. He put scarecrows in the front yard to welcome guests and made a pumpkin arrangement to put outside for the door.

Staff and residents showed up throughout the evening after finishing work. Groups of residents who don’t live together caught up with each other in different rooms. Conversations centered around how work was going and what they and their families were doing during the holidays.

“Chris R. and John G. are two of my best friends, but I see them every day since we’re housemates. Friends like Rich R. and John H. are fun because the three of us are always in good moods when we see each other.”

Patrick Gabriel Homes Resident

Many residents had their eyes wide open for everything in front of them.

Angie, John G., Gabe, January, Lucy, and John H. said they liked everything they ate. Shelby and Joe said turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce were their favorites. Residents like Caryn, Kari, Sam, Stephen, Sean, and Rich R., on the other hand, loaded their plates with turkey since it was their favorite part of the holiday meal.

“I love having everything during Thanksgiving,” one resident, Sara, said smiling. “If I list everything, I get hungry all over again.”

Gabriel Homes residents at Thanksgiving.

Everyone enjoyed Thanksgiving’s famous dessert, pumpkin pie, after filling up on turkey and sides. Darcy, another resident at Gabriel Homes, said her favorite part of the night was the pie.

“I want everyone to try having pecan pie for dessert when they celebrate Thanksgiving. If you’re allergic to nuts, you can use oatmeal instead. The pie tastes amazing either way!”
Darcy, Gabriel Homes Resident

Thankfully, no one’s eyes were too large for their stomachs. Everyone went home full of food and joy after our festivities.

Thanksgiving for adults with IDD at Gabriel Homes is possible thanks to the outpouring of support from donors like you.

During this season of giving, consider the gift of a donation to Gabriel Homes and help make new memories for our residents. Donate

Photo for Young Professionals Revitalize Nonprofit Boards

November 25, 2024 Young Professionals Revitalize Nonprofit Boards View this Post

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The average age of nonprofit board members is over 50 years old.

As a result, nonprofit boards need young professionals for fresh insight into financial oversight and strategic planning.

Impact at Gabriel Homes With Young Professionals

Sarah Carwile is one such young professional making an impact on the Gabriel Homes Board of Directors. A CPA with a background in working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), Sarah brings professional and personal insights into Gabriel Homes and adults with IDD.

“I wanted to join a board because I used to audit nonprofits. Joining Gabriel Homes allowed me to stay involved and learn about the other side of how nonprofits operate.”

Sarah Carwile Gabriel Homes Board of Directors

What brought Sarah to Gabriel Homes?

Sarah joined the board in 2023 after meeting Executive Director Lynn Davis at a nonprofit networking event hosted by Leadership Fairfax. As a young professional, she and her accounting skills complemented Elaine Bickel, the board’s treasurer.

“Sarah’s financial skills are a great addition to our boardHer fresh perspective strengthens our financial planning and ensures we’re prepared for the future.”
Elaine Bickel, Gabriel Homes Treasurer

Sarah Carwile (left), Gabriel Homes board member volunteering for the Special Olympics.

Sarah Carwile (left), board member at Gabriel Homes, at the Special Olympics.

What drives Sarah toward IDD?

Two of Sarah’s neighbors had IDD, so she learned about disability advocacy from a young age. In high school, Sarah did the Best Buddies program, which creates friendship and leadership opportunities for students with IDD. She joined the Special Olympics around the same time, thanks to her experience managing the high school swim team. By her senior year, Sarah became a head coach for the Special Olympics swim team.

“I stayed with Special Olympics throughout college and branched out into other sports like soccer and basketball,” Sarah said. “My coaching style treats athletes like any other. I tailor my coaching to each player’s strengths and cheer them on when they compete.”

Sarah’s favorite memories with the Special Olympics are during the Star-Spangled Banner. While crowds quiet down during performances, Special Olympics athletes enthusiastically sing along to the anthem. To Sarah, their singing is a greater symbol of unity than silence.

How should nonprofits reach younger professionals like Sarah?

Sarah serves on the Young Professional Committee for Special Olympics Northern Virginia. Many professionals don’t know where to start when they want to give back to their communities, according to her. She suggests nonprofits should find more events like Leadership Fairfax’s and challenge younger leaders’ limits.

“Many younger people worry they don’t have enough experience to serve on boards,” says Michele Bolos, chair of the Gabriel Homes Board of Directors. “But they have new ideas and fresh mindsets that they can offer to nonprofits. Boards need emerging professionals so we can stay dynamic and be responsive to our communities.”

Are you a young professional, or do you know one interested in serving on a nonprofit board?

Learn more about the Gabriel Homes board and its committees at gabrielhomes.org. Get Involved

Surveys show that Americans are most thankful for family and friends during Thanksgiving.

At Gabriel Homes, residents show their thanks in ways that are as diverse as they are.

Many show thanks to those close to them, and others celebrate good news in their lives. Everyone’s gratitude is unique and heartfelt.

Gabriel Homes asked the residents what they were thankful for this Thanksgiving. The graphic breaks down what everyone said, including those who were thankful for several things.

Cheering on Our Families & Friends

Many show their appreciation for family and friends. Sean, Gabe, John B., Chris Y., Angie, Lucy, and Darcy echo the same joy for their loved ones. Kari, January, and Rich R. share the same thanks, and the three give extra shoutouts to Gabriel Homes staff for their hard work in helping them live independently.

Rich R.’s gratitude continues: He is also thankful for his housemate, John H., who celebrates life itself. Rich D., like John H., gives thanks living a good life in 2024, and he also celebrates losing weight. Dave, Rich D.’s housemate, also takes joy in having a good year.

Gabriel Homes resident at Dulles Plane Pull.

Gabriel Homes resident at powerlifting training.

Gabriel Homes resident powerlifting at tournament.

The powerlifters are thankful for...

John G., who’s thankful for family, also appreciates music and his job at Blossom Café. He works in food preparation, retail operations, and customer service, and he says he loves all parts of his work.

Chris R. is thankful for powerlifting, where he often competes with John G. The two train every week at IMP Fitness, and they cheer each other on when they lift in tournaments.

Patrick, Chris R. and John G.’s housemate, is thankful for his family. Since his family isn’t nearby, Patrick appreciates his new picture frame. The frame has a slideshow of photos of his family.

Thankful for What You Love

Two residents, Sara and Joe, also take pride in their prized possessions. While Sara is thankful for the Harry Potter series, Joe is thankful for his toys.

Of course, families and friends come together at Thanksgiving and enjoy the food in front of them. Sam is thankful for turkey in November, and Shelby loves chocolate for dessert. Caryn, meanwhile, is grateful for her bursts of energy thanks to coffee. Stephen, on the other hand, is thankful for his clean teeth after seeing the dentist, so he’s ready for this year’s feast.