At the 3rd Annual Direct Support Professional of the Year (DSPY) Awards, Angela Rivera won the advocacy award for her support of our residents.
Her nomination rose to the top out of 32 DSPY award nominations from local service providers like Gabriel Homes. As a residential counselor, Angela has championed the residents’ abilities to speak up for themselves and feel empowered.
Angela (left) joined Gabriel Homes in 2024 to gain more experience while studying social work. She previously worked as a behavioral technician for kids with autism. When Angela joined Gabriel Homes, the residents welcomed her with open arms and trusted her to help them achieve their goals in independence.
“The DSPY award is a great honor because I never thought I would receive recognition for helping others. I am always motivated to work with the residents, so the award adds to the joy I feel every time I see them.”
Angela Rivera, Residential Counselor, Gabriel Homes
Angela was happy just to be nominated for the award. Her friend, fellow residential counselor Victor Guzman, joined her at the ceremony. Executive director Lynn Davis, whom Angela credits for her win, said that her smile turned into utter shock and joy when the advocacy award revealed her name. When Angela got up for her award, she immediately ran to hug her mentor.
“You could see her face beaming when she won. I’ve seen her grow since her time in the student council. Her DSPY win proves Angela has a bright future ahead.” 
Lynn Davis Executive Director, Gabriel Homes https://www.gabrielhomes.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/2025.09-dspys-angela-rivera-video1.mp4 
Angela’s history of advocacy goes beyond Gabriel Homes.
In high school, she served as class president and was a leader in student engagement. She helped organize school events and spoke up for her classmates at school board meetings.
“Being a leader helped me better understand different people and communities,” Angela said. “I learned that I had a big heart for others and wanted to make them happy.”
Her willingness to challenge herself and make a difference carried over into her work at Gabriel Homes. Angela caught the staff’s attention early on for her ability to connect with the residents and address their needs. One resident, Rich (behind), looked back fondly on performing karaoke duets with her during the Boo Bash and Spring Fling. When nominations opened for the 3rd Annual DSPY Awards, Gabriel Homes’ leadership had no hesitation in nominating Angela for the advocacy award.
“Angela is kind and nice, and she’s a great listener when I tell her about my workdays. The world would be a better place if there were more Angelas.” 
Angie Gabriel Homes Resident 
Providers nominated direct support professionals who best represented each category’s prompt.
A diverse group of volunteers selected by the Northern Virginia Coalition of Providers reviewed submissions for the DSPY categories. The nominees’ 1,000-character submissions highlighted the aspects of their exceptional work as DSPs.
Gabriel Homes submitted the following nomination for Angela:
I enthusiastically nominate Angela for her tireless advocacy and remarkable ability to recognize and nurture the strengths of every resident. Her dedication is not just a duty but a passion. She says, “I always wanted to help others and speak up when their voices weren’t heard.” As a DSP, Angela is relentless in empowering residents to make positive and healthy choices. Among her teammates, she’s clear in her communication: Angela always ensures everyone is informed of any needs residents may have. She makes it a priority to ensure everyone receives the care they need.
One evening, a resident wasn’t confident speaking up for themselves. Noticing their shyness, Angela worked with the resident and became their coach. Through role play, the resident acted out scenarios where they could better advocate for themselves under Angela’s scenarios. The resident learned how to speak up politely, and they became more self-assured when voicing they had disagreements or uncertainties with others.
While Angela is achieving new heights in her career...
... one program coordinator at Gabriel Homes reached a personal milestone. See how Daniel Borges (left)ran a 12K in under an hour with support from Rich (right), a resident at Gabriel Homes, at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Learn More
More news stories at Gabriel Homes:
Angela Rivera Wins DSPY Advocacy Award October 1, 2025 Read More
Powerlifters “Pull” off the Impossible at the 2025 Dulles Plane Pull September 25, 2025 Read More
30th Annual Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament Delivers Championship Numbers September 17, 2025 Read More
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For advanced runners, the average finish times are three hours for marathons and 47 minutes for 10Ks.
Olympic marathoner Shane Flanagan recommends runners train four to five months before competitions.
When he’s not empowering our residents at Gabriel Homes, program coordinator Daniel Borges is at the gym or running,
Daniel ran in the Quantico 12K in August to prepare for the Marine Corps Marathon coming this October. When he crossed the finish line, his final time was 56 minutes and 9 seconds.
“I run at least seven kilometers a day during the week and around 22 on weekends. Running is like therapy to me. Trainings push me to get out of the home and achieve something bigger than myself.”
Daniel Borges
After months of training on sidewalks and road shoulders, Daniel stepped into a new challenge at the Marine Corps 12K in Quantico.
The path consisted of gravel and dirt, which felt strange under his feet. At one point during the run, Daniel felt a tiny twist in his ankle when he stepped on a rock. Thankfully, he was back to his usual running form after his short slowdown.
With the finish line in sight, Daniel spotted his #1 supporter. Rich (left), a resident at Gabriel Homes, waved at and cheered for Daniel during the race’s final stretch. Daniel said Rich was the push he needed to finish after over 50 minutes of grueling running.
Rich always asked about Daniel’s training progress and was excited to see him at the 12K.
Because he had family who served in the military, Rich was in awe of being at the base. His face lit up when they arrived, and he felt proud to be there for someone he cared about.
“I had such a nice time seeing Daniel run — I yelled as loud as I could when I saw him! Being at Quantico for the 12K and meeting all the Marines made me feel like a proud citizen.”
Rich
After the race, Daniel and Rich drove around the base and saw some of the barracks.
Rich ecstatically pointed at everything he saw. The guys finished their morning at Quantico by eating an early lunch on the base.
“Rich came to the 12K to support me first and foremost, and his care for others shows what a loving person he is,” Daniel said. “I knew I couldn’t let him down when I raced, so he was my motivation to keep training and finish in stride.”
Daniel wasn’t the only person at Gabriel Homes with athletic achievements in 2025.
Did you know Special Olympics powerlifters from Gabriel Homes pulled a plane in September? See how our residents combined their strength to move the aircraft at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Click Here
More sports news at Gabriel Homes:
Daniel Borges Finishes Under an Hour at Marine Corps 12K in Quantico September 30, 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
Community Corner: Special Olympics Coaches’ Impact December 1, 2024 Read More
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My Special Olympics story starts in a way that sounds cheesy at first...
...but I promise it’s absolutely true. Back in college, my sorority sisters kept telling me, “You have to volunteer at Special Olympics. It’ll change your life.” I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I decided to give volunteering a try one Thursday night with a group of sisters who went each week.
That evening, I walked into an alley packed with athletes and volunteers. The energy, joy, and kindness were overwhelming. The athletes didn’t know me, but they welcomed me with open arms. They were down-to-earth and full of life. The evening was my first night volunteering at the Special Olympics, and I suddenly found myself in a whole new type of environment. Most of my time at school was spent focusing on myself: seeking my goals, future, and growth. Volunteering for Special Olympics was refreshing because I could focus on others.
I stepped back halfway through the night, looked down all the lanes, and felt something shift within me.
That night was the start of a new chapter.
I knew I wanted to spend the rest of my life empowering the lives of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in any way I could.
The very next morning, I changed my major from business to human development; I later added psychology. I sought out internships in special education. My first opportunity was working with second graders with disabilities at a local elementary school. Then I worked with a young adult with Autism through Virginia Tech’s On Campus Transition Program. How my career would pan out after graduation, I wasn’t sure. One thing was for certain: I wanted to spend my life working with people with IDD.
And I never looked back.
Twelve years later in the professional field, I’ve had the privilege of working in countless spaces with people with IDD. Every experience has taught me something new, like the importance of advocacy, the value of inclusion, and the power of believing in others’ potential. My career goes beyond what I’ve learned; it’s been about connection.
I deeply believe in the abilities of people with IDD. My passion drives every professional and personal decision I make.
At KNH Advocacy
When I work with families on individualized education plan (IEP) packages, I’m always thinking:
- What will make this student feel seen?
- What will help them feel confident?
- How can I show them that I believe in them, so they can believe in themselves?
Volunteering at the Special Olympics did more than introduce me to a community. It gave me purpose and direction. Going to Special Olympics over 12 years ago was the launching point that inspired the work I do every single day. And I couldn’t be more grateful.
More board spotlights at Gabriel Homes:
Sarah Carwile: How Special Olympics Impacts My Board Service September 19, 2025 Read More
Acting As a Fiduciary and Future Planning for Adults With IDD September 5, 2025 Read More
Shalini Kapur: Friendships Made Serving on the Board of Directors September 2, 2025 Read More
Elaine Bickel: Returning to Gabriel Homes – Our Financial Growth August 29, 2025 Read More
Michele Bolos: How Expectations Change on a Nonprofit Board August 28, 2025 Read More
Why I Keep Coming Back to Gabriel Homes for House Projects August 15, 2025 Read More
Donna Patchett: How The Arc of NOVA Empowers Everyone August 14, 2025 Read More
Special Education Advocate in Virginia Emphasizes Independence June 18, 2025 Read More
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Powerlifters at Gabriel Homes, who recently swept the state powerlifting competition with medals, pulled a 50-ton airplane at the 2025 Dulles Plane Pull.
The 2025 Dulles Plane Pull, a part of an annual festival held by the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, raised over $600,000 for Special Olympics Virginia.
Preparing for the 2025 Dulles Plane Pull
Preparing for the premiere event at Dulles Day, the Special Olympics powerlifting team worked with their coaches on building their strength and improving their form. Patrick, a Gabriel Homes resident and Special Olympics powerlifter who started the morning chatting with buddies on his team, went silent with the group when they were called to the tarmac.
Everyone from Special Olympics powerlifting locked their eyes on the plane. They were ready to put their strength to the test.
“You could see the residents were nervous and excited at the same time. As soon as the powerlifters touched the rope, their nerves washed away. Everyone was ready to pull the plane all at once.” 
Daniel Borges Program Coordinator, Gabriel Homes 
The Special Olympics powerlifting team stood spread out on opposite sides of the rope. Giving every ounce of muscle on each “one-two-pull,” the 737 started rolling almost immediately.
“We all made lots of grunting sounds when we pulled the plane,” said a laughing Chris, a resident and Special Olympics powerlifter. “After we dropped the rope, we saw a huge crowd clapping for us. All of us were smiling the rest of the day.”
Residents who compete in powerlifting say visiting Dulles International Airport for the plane pull is one of the highlights of the year. Since powerlifting is an individual sport, residents in the same weight brackets often compete against each other. For the plane pull, the powerlifting team combines their strength for the same goal: moving the heavy-duty aircraft.
“Pulling the plane was hard, but I felt strong enough to do it since I trained all year with my coaches. I could only pull the plane thanks to all my teammates. No person could pull the plane alone!” 
Patrick Gabriel Homes Resident & Special Olympics Powerlifter 
Since the powerlifting team was the first to pull the plane, the residents saw other spectacles held on Dulles Day.
The residents had up-close looks at the classic car show and saw vintage planes like the F-24 during the afternoon.
Residents at Gabriel Homes show their strength at the Dulles Plane Pull and in their everyday lives.
Work, sports, clubs, and other hobbies fill their calendars every week. Learn about how adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities enjoy purpose-driven lives in Herndon and Reston at gabrielhomes.org. Learn More
The latest sports stories at Gabriel Homes:
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
Community Corner: Special Olympics Coaches’ Impact December 1, 2024 Read More
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My involvement with Special Olympics was the beginning of a deeply meaningful journey in service and advocacy.
Volunteering for the Special Olympics introduced me to a community of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) whose resilience, joy, and accomplishments left a lasting impression. The athletes taught me the value of inclusion, the power of dignity, and the importance of meeting people where they are. These experiences laid the groundwork for my service with Gabriel Homes Board of Directors today.
At Special Olympics, I learned how to support others in ways that encouraged both independence and belonging. I gained experience in coordinating events, communicating across a wide spectrum of abilities, and advocating for inclusive programming. My refined skills, thanks in part to my professional background in nonprofit auditing, applied directly to my work with Gabriel Homes.
Applying experience into action
When I joined the board at Gabriel Homes, I brought a heart committed to empowerment alongside my experience. I understood the importance of celebrating abilities over limitations and creating opportunities for long-term organizational growth. At Gabriel Homes, this has meant contributing to strategic planning, refining governance, and helping to sustain a person-centered care model.
Serving on the board has shaped my professional and personal development. Professionally, my service has strengthened my leadership, strategic thinking, and collaborative decision-making skills. I’ve become more thoughtful in how I approach problem-solving, especially when the outcomes affect vulnerable populations. Personally, the work grounds me. I remind myself that meaningful progress is often built slowly through relationships, persistence, and deep listening.
Special Olympics and Gabriel Homes have shaped my vision of community, purpose, and service. The throughline between them is the belief that everyone deserves the chance to grow, thrive, and be celebrated. Following my roots, I am proud to serve on a board of directors that helps adults with IDD achieve their dreams.
If you are a young professional looking for leadership opportunities, serving on our board may be the perfect fit!
Learn about all of the committees on the board and how you can get involved at gabrielhomes.org. Serve on Our Board
More sports spotlights at Gabriel Homes:
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
Community Corner: Special Olympics Coaches’ Impact December 1, 2024 Read More
Young Professionals Revitalize Nonprofit Boards November 25, 2024 Read More
Special Olympics Soccer Shines With January November 7, 2024 Read More
Gabriel Homes Powerlifters Pull a Plane at Dulles Airport October 4, 2024 Read More
Gabriel Homes Forecasts the 2024 NFL Season September 12, 2024 Read More
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Reston, Va. — Gabriel Homes, a leading housing provider for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), is proud to announce that the 30th Annual Golf Tournament at Evergreen Country Club raised over $78,000 in support of its mission.
Every foursome:
118 golfers swung into action in celebration of community, competition, and generosity.
Clear skies and 80-degree weather were the perfect backdrop to a strong showing of support for the residents at Gabriel Homes.
Monsignor Bob Cilinski opened the event with remarks, followed by a rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner performed by Mark Forrest. Golfers then made their way to their shotgun start spots as play started across the scenic 18-hole course. Some Gabriel Homes residents volunteered their time by cheering on and meeting the golfers; one resident, Dave, competed in the tournament.
More photos from the Gabriel Homes 30th Annual Golf Tournament:
After five hours on the links, Gabriel Homes golfers, volunteers, staff, and residents came together for dinner.
Those who purchased raffle and prize tickets were glued to their seats as Gabriel Homes announced the lucky numbers for each item. This year’s super prize was an oil painting done by local artist Mike Flynn.
Michele Bolos
Chair, Gabriel Homes Board of Directors
More photos from the Gabriel Homes 30th Annual Golf Tournament:
The highlight of the tournament was the community’s shared passion for giving back.
Proceeds from the event help empower adults with IDD to achieve their goals, including building independence and self-advocacy.
“It’s also important to acknowledge the hard work of our Gabriel Homes staff. The passion and commitment they show to every resident inspires us all.”
Lynn Davis
Executive Director, Gabriel Homes
Gabriel Homes sends a special thank you to this year’s Guardian Angel sponsors:
Thank you to our meal, drink, and gift sponsors:
Looking to be a part of next year’s tournament?
If you are interested in joining us or sponsoring the 31st Annual Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament, email info@gabrielhomes.org for more information. Get involved today!More photos from the Gabriel Homes 30th Annual Golf Tournament:
In the September 2025 edition of our newsletter, The Treehouse, our board of directors is sharing their wisdom and insights based on their diverse backgrounds.
From the growth of Gabriel Homes to how families can benefit from The Arc of NoVa’s services, this edition is full of resources anybody can use. Dive into everything there is to offer in September 2025 edition of our monthly newsletter, The Treehouse.
The Latest:
By Michele Bolos
As chair of the board, Michele has seen the growth of Gabriel Homes’ services and community-wide impact. Her approach to service has changed, proudly serving as an ambassador for Gabriel Homes.
How did moving into a leadership role affect her roles for Gabriel Homes? You’ll have to see for yourself at gabrielhomes.org.
See the roles our leaders take on for Gabriel Homes
By Donna Patchett
Our secretary on the board of directors, Donna also serves on the board of the The Arc of NoVa. The advocacy group champions policies that support the full inclusion of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
You may not know that the Arc has a wealth of information through its resource library and innovative programs.
See how the Arc empowers everyone
Don’t let your friends & family miss 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.
Who is somebody you know who may not follow us on social media? Get your network involved with Gabriel Homes and share your favorite stories:
Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter Threads 
By Alex Buellesbach
Fiduciaries provide support, ensuring adults with IDD have financial security throughout their lives.
Learn from Alex Buellesbach, the founder and managing advisor of Cottage Hill Capital, about fiduciaries’ significant roles in financial and future planning for adults with IDD.
Learn more about fiduciaries’ critical roles
By Elaine Bickel
Fun fact: Our treasurer of the board worked for Gabriel Homes in the 1990s as a part-time bookkeeper!
“When the opportunity arose to return in a board capacity, it felt like a full-circle moment.”
Learn more about the high points of Elaine’s tenure as an employee, and see how her return to the board showed her a broader view of the organization at gabrielhomes.org.
See how our finances have transformed over decades
By Shalini Kapur
As chair of the development committee, Shalini planned to contribute to Gabriel Homes through her network, skills, and ideas. Never did she realize she’d make such impactful relationships with a tight-knit group of leaders!
“Our relationships have made my service more effective
Shalini Kapur
in fulfilling our mission.”
See how interpersonal relationships elevate our board
Staff Spotlight:
Staff Have July 4 Party in Reston With the Residents
When the residents are not traveling, they are celebrating their independence at home. On July 4, program coordinators Naomi Pariona (first picture, left), and Daniel Borges (first picture, right) planned an Independence Day extravaganza.
See how our residents celebrated July 4
Upcoming Dates:
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:
Sarah Carwile: How Special Olympics Impacts My Board Service September 19, 2025 Read More
Acting As a Fiduciary and Future Planning for Adults With IDD September 8, 2025 Read More
Elaine Bickel: Returning to Gabriel Homes – Our Financial Growth August 29, 2025 Read More
Michele Bolos: How Expectations Change on a Nonprofit Board August 28, 2025 Read More
The Treehouse: September 2025 Newsletter August 26, 2025 Read More
Shalini Kapur: Friendships Made Serving on the Board of Directors August 25, 2025 Read More
Why I Keep Coming Back to Gabriel Homes for House Projects August 15, 2025 Read More
Donna Patchett: How The Arc of NOVA Empowers Everyone August 14, 2025 Read More
The Treehouse: August 2025 Newsletter August 6, 2025 Read More
Special Olympics Softball in Loudoun: Rich’s Risky Move Pays Off July 31, 2025 Read More
Spontaneous Thinking Sparks the Best Events July 29, 2025 Read More
Patrick’s Family Reunion in South Carolina July 23, 2025 Read More
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The relationships and friendships I’ve built on the board of directors have been some of the most meaningful and impactful parts of my service.
At first, I thought I’d contribute to Gabriel Homes through my network, skills, and ideas. I never thought I’d find such a tight-knit, supportive group of leaders!
Over time, connections with the board of directors and staff have grown into true friendships. Our relationships have made my service more effective in fulfilling our mission.
By building trust with each other, our conversations become more open and honest. Differences of opinion are easier to navigate because we respect one another. I see firsthand how our board can resolve decisions with grace because we take the time to understand everyone's points of view. We support and listen to each other because we share a deep commitment to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The connection between the board and staff matters equally to me.
I work closely with staff members on everything from events to strategic planning. Our collaborations help me see how our strategies come to life through their work.
When board members and staff communicate clearly, Gabriel Homes becomes a stronger, more united organization. I make it a point to stay approachable, ask questions, and listen to the staff’s insights. Everyone’s perspectives keep my decisions grounded and focused on what matters most: the residents.
Interpersonal relationships elevate a board from functional to exceptional.
Through trust, respect, and open communication, we create a space where everyone feels invested in the outcome. Our shared sense of purpose, strengthened by our connections, keeps me coming back.
Many of the photos in this article are from the Gabriel Homes Annual Golf Tournament.
Want to join in on the fun as a golfer, sponsor, or volunteer? See everything there is to know about the tournament at gabrielhomes.org/golf. Click Here
More spotlights from the board:
Sarah Carwile: How Special Olympics Impacts My Board Service September 19, 2025 Read More
Acting As a Fiduciary and Future Planning for Adults With IDD September 8, 2025 Read More
Elaine Bickel: Returning to Gabriel Homes – Our Financial Growth August 29, 2025 Read More
How Expectations Change on a Nonprofit Board of Directors August 28, 2025 Read More
Shalini Kapur: Friendships Made Serving on the Board of Directors August 25, 2025 Read More
Why I Keep Coming Back to Gabriel Homes for House Projects August 15, 2025 Read More
Donna Patchett: How The Arc of NOVA Empowers Everyone August 14, 2025 Read More
Special Education Advocate in Virginia Emphasizes Independence June 18, 2025 Read More
Faith Leader in Virginia Is a Father Figure to Many May 28, 2025 Read More
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Thirty years ago, I saw an ad in my parish’s bulletin for a nonprofit that needed a bookkeeper.
My children were little, and I wasn’t working outside of the home. Having extra time on my hands, I applied for the role and ended up working at Gabriel Homes for about five years.
Setting Gabriel Homes up for Financial Success
Working at Gabriel Homes was a privilege that left a lasting impression on me. I helped formalize our accounting with the new software at the time. The most exciting days were the days we expanded. Gabriel Homes had four homes when I started, and we bought two more before I left. The bookkeeping and financial growth reflected Gabriel Homes’ care, compassion, and commitment to the residents.
Compared to when I was an employee, serving on the board offers a broader view of the organization as a whole. Gabriel Homes is more focused and thoughtful on its growth, with more ways to bring in funding and plan for the future. There is now a solid system in place to support financial planning, oversight, and accountability.
Equally important is our financial transparency. What was once a small operation in the ‘90s is now a system with clearly defined financial policies, regular reporting, and board-level engagement in budgeting and audits. Transparency around finances has strengthened trust among our families, donors, and community, and it helps the board to make more informed decisions.
My time on the board concludes at the end of the year.
Since returning to Gabriel Homes in 2016, we’ve made steady progress in building a foundation for the future. We are in a strong financial position thanks to the hard work of many people. I’m proud of where Gabriel Homes is and am excited for what’s ahead.
The Gabriel Homes Hall of Fame recognizes long-standing supporters of our mission.
Learn about others who have dedicated decades of their time in service to Gabriel Homes at gabrielhomes.org.
See Our Hall of FameMore spotlights from the board:
Sarah Carwile: How Special Olympics Impacts My Board Service September 19, 2025 Read More Acting As a Fiduciary and Future Planning for Adults With IDD September 8, 2025 Read More Elaine Bickel: Returning to Gabriel Homes – Our Financial Growth August 29, 2025 Read More How Expectations Change on a Nonprofit Board of Directors August 28, 2025 Read More Shalini Kapur: Friendships Made Serving on the Board of Directors August 25, 2025 Read More Why I Keep Coming Back to Gabriel Homes for House Projects August 15, 2025 Read More Donna Patchett: How The Arc of NOVA Empowers Everyone August 14, 2025 Read More Special Education Advocate in Virginia Emphasizes Independence June 18, 2025 Read More Faith Leader in Virginia Is a Father Figure to Many May 28, 2025 Read More dddcd
First Impressions
When I first joined the Gabriel Homes board, I expected to support an organization providing residential services to adults with developmental disabilities. What I didn’t fully anticipate was how deeply rooted the mission is in every aspect of the organization. The compassionate staff, the families’ dedication, and the strong focus on resident’s growth and dignity all reflect the commitment to independence for everyone.
Over time, I’ve seen Gabriel Homes grow not just in services but in impact.
We’ve become more intentional about advocacy, expanded our community presence, and continued evolving our programs to meet increasingly complex needs. I’ve also watched our leadership grow more strategic, while never losing sight of the heart of the work: the residents.
My understanding of what board service meant has also changed.
I initially thought of it as governance and oversight. I now see that it includes a fiduciary responsibility to our donors and a partnership in our fundraising efforts. Throughout our community, our leaders are ambassadors for an organization that truly changes lives.
Leadership and Board Governance
As I became more involved with Gabriel Homes and took on a leadership role on the board, my focus shifted toward strengthening our governance. I’ve worked to ensure that our policies and practices are clearly defined and well documented. When the board installs its next chair, my goal is to leave knowing that strong processes are in place to sustain the mission consistently, effectively, and with lasting impact.
If you’ve ever considered serving on a board, now is a great time to explore the opportunity.
Board service is a meaningful way to give back, share your skills, and help shape the future of a mission-driven organization. Whether you have experience in finance, advocacy, fundraising, or simply a passion for making a difference, your perspective matters. You don’t need to have all the answers, just a willingness to learn, engage, and contribute.
We want to hear from you!
If the idea of making a direct impact on your community resonates with you, we’d love to connect and share more about what board service can look like. Please don’t hesitate to reach out by filling out our contact form! Click Here
More from the board:
Acting As a Fiduciary and Future Planning for Adults With IDD August 22, 2025 Read More
How Expectations Change on a Nonprofit Board of Directors August 14, 2025 Read More
Donna Patchett: How The Arc of NOVA Empowers Everyone August 14, 2025 Read More
Special Education Advocate in Virginia Emphasizes Independence June 18, 2025 Read More
Faith Leader in Virginia Is a Father Figure to Many May 28, 2025 Read More
College and Independent Living Share Common Ground May 1, 2025 Read More
IDD Professional in Virginia Champions Growth for Gabriel Homes March 26, 2025 Read More
Ensuring Quality Housing for Adults With IDD at Gabriel Homes February 24, 2025 Read More
Racecar Driving in West Virginia: Cheryl Richardson Preaches Safety January 27, 2025 Read More