Photo for Gabriel Homes Holds Leadership Development Workshop November 20, 2024 Gabriel Homes Holds Leadership Development Workshop View this Post
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Investing in leadership development helps nonprofits improve efficiency and reduce turnover.

Leadership development, as a result, allows nonprofits to achieve their missions more successfully.

Gabriel Homes residents at 29th annual golf tournament.

Communication Is Key

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 about each other’s strengths and communication styles and using a communication model for clear goals and mutual understanding.

“With growing leadership teams like Gabriel Homes, organizations have broader representations of people’s strengths and preferences,” Pearring said. “Everyone brings value to the team, and our workshops celebrate their differences.”

Personalized Leadership Development

Each team member completed the Myers-Briggs assessment before meeting in person. Tests reflected how people took information and made decisions. Pearring personally outlined each staff member’s assessment and tailored the workshop around everyone’s results.

When staff met for the workshop, they learned about each other’s strengths in the workplace and how others differed from them. Knowing how their teammates worked best, the group learned how to communicate better based on each other’s preferences. 

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Gabriel Homes staff and residents at the golf tournament.
Gabriel Homes staff at leadership development retreat.
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Gabriel Homes residents at Boo Bash, a Halloween party.

The second half of the workshop worked through handling hypothetical tension and conflicts in a constructive and respectful manner. Staff learned about a model where everyone enters with good intentions. Leaders learned to use active listening, where they summarize teammates’ comments back to them for clarity. When teams finish resolving conflicts, leaders respond with requests. In this model, everyone moves forward with how they can work best in service of their teams.

“Everybody’s method of communication is different, like talking, texting, or emailing. I intend to communicate in ways that find solutions for our residents and respect others’ preferred communication styles.” Kassi Fretty Kassi Fretty Program Coordinator, Gabriel Homes

At the end of the retreat...

... staff like Kassi felt more committed to Gabriel Homes’ mission. Kassi noted she felt more confident communicating with residents as well. Whether answering concerns or asking for calls to action, staff felt empowered to apply their new communication skills everywhere. 

Thank you for your commitment to our residents.

The outpouring of support from people like yourself allows Gabriel Homes to invest in our staff and provide the best services for our residents. Give the gift of a donation to Gabriel Homes this holiday season.

Donate Today
Photo for Gabriel Homes Residents Get COVID-19 and Flu Vaccines November 14, 2024 Gabriel Homes Residents Get COVID-19 and Flu Vaccines View this Post
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Vaccination against COVID-19 and the flu

Vaccines against COVID-19 and the flu is crucial for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities due to their higher risks of fighting illnesses and spreading viruses to their housemates.

Gabriel Homes resident receiving vaccines against COVID-19 and the flu.
Gabriel Homes resident receiving vaccines against COVID-19 and the flu.
Gabriel Homes resident receiving vaccines against COVID-19 and the flu.
Gabriel Homes resident receiving vaccines against COVID-19 and the flu.

Gabriel Homes residents received their annual fall vaccinations to protect themselves from COVID-19 and the flu.

Staff organized the appointments and ensured everyone was comfortable when they received their vaccines.

“We face a big challenge getting our residents vaccinated. Residents celebrate the holidays by going to festivities, so our goal is to have their immune systems at their strongest. Thankfully, Gabriel Homes has a fantastic staff, who helped with transportation and paperwork.”

Beth Hoyos, Director of Quality Assurance and Clinical Oversight

Getting vaccines in October prepares your body for the colder months ahead when illness cases spike.

Residents are always encouraged to ask questions about vaccinations and how they protect patients from illness. Gabriel Homes believes in a supportive environment that promotes understanding and open conversations.

Stay informed for adults with IDD

For more information on COVID-19 vaccines for adults with IDD, visit thearc.org/covid.

Learn More

More news from Gabriel Homes:

Gabriel Homes Residents Get COVID-19 and Flu Vaccines November 14, 2024 Read More The Treehouse: November 2024 Newsletter November 4, 2024 Read More Gabriel Homes Visits Cox Farms: Slides, Goats, and Pumpkins October 31, 2024 Read More Gabriel Homes’ Spooktacular Halloween Party October 22, 2024 Read More 2nd Annual DSPY Awards Celebrates Service Providers October 18, 2024 Read More Bob Cilinski Named Monsignor by Pope Francis October 10, 2024 Read More The Treehouse: October 2024 October 7, 2024 Read More Gabriel Homes Powerlifters Pull a Plane at Dulles Airport October 4, 2024 Read More 29th Annual Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament a HUGE Success! September 17, 2024 Read More
Photo for Special Olympics Soccer Shines With January November 7, 2024 Special Olympics Soccer Shines With January View this Post
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Studies show playing Special Olympics soccer boosts fitness, mental health, social skills, and self-esteem.

One Gabriel Homes resident, January, is an avid fan of the sport on and off the pitch (soccer field). She competes in Special Olympics soccer for the Fairfax Diamonds and enjoys watching D.C. United on TV and at Audi Field.

Gabriel Homes resident playing Special Olympics soccer.
Gabriel Homes resident playing Special Olympics soccer.

How Does Special Olympics Soccer Work?

In Special Olympics soccer, teams play four-on-four matchups plus goalkeepers. January’s best position is playing forward (known as a striker), so she often uses her speed to dribble past defenders and score.

“I’ve scored a few goals this season. I have been improving this season because Coaches Tana and Jonathan give good feedback.”

January, Gabriel Homes Resident

Gabriel Homes resident playing Special Olympics soccer.

The Leadership of Coach Tana

Coach Tana (right) has been involved in the Special Olympics for over 20 years through her daughter Maddie. The family created the women’s soccer team because Maddie and her teammates wanted to try new sports. Players like January have built meaningful relationships with each other by playing as a team.

“My coaching style is mixing the understanding of the game with humor and fun,” Coach Tana says. “Everyone wants to succeed and give advice on what to do for upcoming matches. My biggest challenge as a coach is to read the player, understand their disability, and find the best way to communicate with them.”

Gabriel Homes resident playing Special Olympics soccer.

Introducing Coach Jonathan

The Diamonds welcomed Coach Jonathan (left) when he was looking to get involved with adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Special Olympics soccer felt like a fit for him because of his devout fandom of the Washington Spirit. Once he joined the squad, Coach Jonathan found himself emotionally invested in matches. 

My favorite thing about coaching is seeing the players encourage and support each other on and off the field. Being new to the team, I try to bring my style of enthusiasm by shouting encouragement when they play!

Coach Jonathan

Even with passionate cheering on and off the pitch, sportsmanship is the heart of Special Olympics soccer.

Players apologize and hug when they run into each other, and everyone compliments one another when they make great plays on the ball.

“I love seeing how everyone respects and supports each other. The matches are great atmospheres to work, and I like seeing the joy on the players’ faces all game.”

Ryan, Special Olympics Soccer Referee

Gabriel Homes resident playing Special Olympics soccer.

Going for the Gold

The Diamonds’ season finishes with state finals in Virginia Beach. After winning silver last season, the team is as motivated as ever to take first place.

“Our players are proud of their efforts and walk taller when they play,” Coach Tana says, smiling. “The looks on the players’ faces are something you don’t forget. They show pride, confidence, and joy.”

Residents celebrate new milestones every day at Gabriel Homes.

Catch up on all our latest news by signing up for our newsletter at the bottom of our home page. Sign up today

More sports stories at Gabriel Homes:

Special Olympics Soccer Shines With January October 25, 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

Board Member and Golf Enthusiast September 5, 2024 Read More

Gabriel Homes Residents Sweep Powerlifting States Competition July 25, 2024 Read More

Baseball Builds Beautiful Bonds July 22, 2024 Read More

Home Runs Highlight Special Olympics Softball July 9, 2024 Read More

Gabriel Homes Crushes Powerlifting Competition May 28, 2024 Read More

Photo for The Treehouse: November 2024 Newsletter November 4, 2024 The Treehouse: November 2024 Newsletter View this Post
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The Latest...

Gabriel Homes residents at the Boo Bash, a Halloween party.

Gabriel Homes Holds Spooktacular Boo Bash

Celebrating the early sunsets and changing leaves, Gabriel Homes held the first-ever Boo Bash. We are thankful for all the staff and volunteers who made the night possible. Read about the unforgettable night and see photos of our residents at gabrielhomes.org.

Read about the Boo Bash
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Gabriel Homes resident at the Boo Bash, a Halloween party.
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Gabriel Homes residents at the Boo Bash, a Halloween party.
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Gabriel Homes residents at the Boo Bash, a Halloween party.
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Mark your calendars for Giving Tuesday!

On December 3rd, empower our residents by donating to Gabriel Homes this Giving Tuesday. Your support secured us a new van to drive residents to appointments safely, and it allowed us to renovate nine bathrooms for better safety.

If you're looking to get ahead of the curve before the season of giving, donate today!

Donate Gabriel Homes residents at Cox Farms.

Gabriel Homes Visits Cox Farms

Everyone who went to the farm went on a hayride adventure, rode down super slides, pet some friendly goats, and brought home pumpkins and apple cider doughnuts.

Learn more at gabrielhomes.org.

Read about Cox Farms
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Gabriel Homes resident at Cox Farms at Foamhenge, a recreation of Stonehenge.
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Are you following Gabriel Homes on social media?

If you're not, you're missing out on endless photos from all the fun at Gabriel Homes!

Like and follow us on your social media platforms of choice, and share our accounts with your friends and family.

Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter Threads Monsignor Bob Cilinski (center) with cake at Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament.

Bob Cilinski Named Monsignor by Pope Francis

Previously known as Father Bob, Cilinski was named by Pope Francis as Chaplin to His Holiness with the title Monsignor. We are thankful for his decades of service to Gabriel Homes.

More on Rev. Msgr. Cilinski Gabriel Homes residents watching game shows.

Game Shows Boost Brain Power

Angie (left) is thankful for the brain games. After a hard day’s work at ECHO, Angie rushes to the couch to tune into the Game Show Network.

Learn about Angie's favorite shows

Community Corner

Gabriel Homes resident working at Walmart.

Testimonials From Employers and Job Coaches

"Personally, Dave and John are sweethearts. Both are easy to talk to, and I like learning more about them when we meet. I feel great knowing they keep learning and improving on the job."

-Beni, Job Coach, Didlake

See what managers say about our hardworking residents
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Gabriel Homes resident at work.
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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

Karen Chapman, memberof the board of Directors at Gabriel Homes, at the 29th annual golf tournament.

Karen Chapman

With a background in special education and her sister Sara being a resident of Gabriel Homes, Karen offers a unique perspective when the board makes decisions. 

"Thinking of Sara helps me think of the residents as a whole. My sister has lots of things going on like other residents, so I see how my actions affect everybody."

-Karen

Meet Karen

Staff Spotlight

Gabriel Homes resident at the Boo Bash, a Halloween party.

Angela Rivera

Angela previously worked as a behavioral technician for children with autism. Now a junior at George Mason University, Angela studies social work so she can stand up for others professionally.

"In high school, I spoke up for others whose voices weren’t heard."

-Angela

Get to know Angela

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: FacebookLinkedInInstagramTwitterThreads.

We appreciate donations of any amounts.

Consider making a donation to Gabriel Homes today.

Donate

More stories you may have missed:

The Treehouse: April 2025 Newsletter April 7, 2025 Read More Sites at the American Frontier: Exploring New Mexico and Utah March 31, 2025 Read More IDD Professional in Virginia Champions Growth for Gabriel Homes March 26, 2025 Read More Gabriel Homes Celebrates Willie Lemay and His Legacy March 21, 2025 Read More Gabriel Homes Residents Welcome Spring with Fresh Styles March 20, 2025 Read More Rosa Leads Spring Cleanings in Reston March 18, 2025 Read More Residents Enjoy Walkable Trails in Reston March 12, 2025 Read More Gabriel Homes Finalist for Reston Chamber Nonprofit of the Year March 6, 2025 Read More The Treehouse: March 2025 Newsletter March 3, 2025 Read More Community Corner: The Physical and Mental Benefits of Bowling February 28, 2025 Read More Social Workers Spotlight Mental Health for Adults With IDD February 26, 2025 Read More Ensuring Quality Housing for Adults With IDD at Gabriel Homes February 24, 2025 Read More
Photo for Community Corner: The Strength of Employing Adults with IDD November 4, 2024 Community Corner: The Strength of Employing Adults with IDD View this Post
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Companies employing adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) boost staff retention and strengthen the economy.

Gabriel Homes resident at work.

Gabriel Homes residents play critical roles in our workforce.

At Gabriel Homes, all our residents attend work or vocational programs during the day. You might meet residents at places like Walmart, Giant, and Potbelly. Some residents have been at their jobs for decades and have gotten promotions for their hard work. As role models to their coworkers and community, our residents receive endless praise from their managers.

Gabriel Homes spoke with employers and job coaches who work closely with our residents. All had glowing things to say about their work:

Beni Collins, Employment Specialist, Didlake:

“It’s fulfilling to help others succeed at their jobs, like when I work with Dave and John at Walmart. Dave is an ambitious worker and always wants to try something new. In my role, I can be that voice of reasoning and help him navigate his goals. Dave knows he can call or text when he needs mentorship, and I’m proud of how he's grown.

“John is another rock star at work. There are never any performance issues with his work. I’m there for him when he has questions about his schedule, like when to clock in and out. John’s a first-one-in, last-one-out type of worker, and he’s responsive to timely concerns. Like reaching his 30th anniversary at Walmart, John’s constantly reaching new milestones at work.

“Personally, Dave and John are sweethearts. Both are easy to talk to, and I like learning more about them when we meet. I feel great knowing they keep learning and improving on the job.”

Gabriel Homes resident working at Walmart.
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Gabriel Homes resident at work.
Gabriel Homes resident at work at Giant.
Gabriel Homes resident (right) with Frank (left), friend of the community.

Iisha, Store Manager, Giant:

“Rich is very important at Giant. He runs duties like greeting shoppers, collecting carts, cleaning restrooms, and more. When he comes to work, he’s excited to start the day and is loved by staffers and shoppers. 

“He also shows extra thought and care for each customer. Lots of shoppers are friends with Rich because he asks how they and their families are doing. Working at Giant isn’t a job but a passion for employees like Rich.”

Kim Gladney, Project Manager, Goodwill Greater Washington

Lucy has been on the cleaning team for over 15 years. Since Covid started, she’s been on smaller teams and done extra tasks like wiping doors and disinfecting rooms. Lucy has had to manage a bigger space, but her productivity has been top-notch. There simply aren’t enough workers like her.”

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Gabriel Homes resident (left) and coworker (right).

Looking to learn more about our residents’ amazing work?

Sign up for our newsletter, The Treehouse, and get monthly news delivered to your inbox. Sign up today

Stories about a day in the life at Gabriel Homes:

Special Olympics Soccer Shines With January November 7, 2024 Read More The Treehouse: November 2024 Newsletter November 4, 2024 Read More Community Corner: The Strength of Employing Adults with IDD November 4, 2024 Read More
Photo for Gabriel Homes Visits Cox Farms: Slides, Goats, and Pumpkins October 31, 2024 Gabriel Homes Visits Cox Farms: Slides, Goats, and Pumpkins View this Post
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In 2023, Americans spent around $7 billion on celebrating Halloween and the fall spirit.

One popular annual family outing, farms, produced over 1.2 billion pounds of pumpkins last year.

Gabriel Homes residents at Cox Farms going down the Dino Slide.
Gabriel Homes residents at Cox Farms going down the Dino Slide.
Gabriel Homes residents at Cox Farms going down the Dino Slide.

Before Halloween, Gabriel Homes enjoyed a trip to Cox Farms in Centreville.

The day started with a comfortable hayride through the farm. Riders saw vast cornfields and visuals like spaceships and castles. Some actors came out as aliens when riders passed the ship. 

Residents were on their feet after the ride, only to sit back down for the Dino Slide. The slide was a steep 142-foot drop from top to bottom. Sliders cushioned their descent with potato sacks, which added to the farm’s senses of touch and smell. Fake grass at the bottom of the ride helped sliders finish their drops safely. 

“I was shocked at how high the slide was and how fast you fly down it. The slide was fun but also a little scary. I think the residents were braver than me!”

Lynn Davis, Executive Director, Gabriel Homes

Darcy, one resident at Gabriel Homes, was drawn toward a styrofoam version of Stonehenge known as “Foamhenge,” which was recreated by a Virginia artist.

When Darcy was younger, she visited the English spectacle with her mom. Foamhenge, on the other hand, is about 100 pounds compared to the
25-ton original.

Gabriel Homes resident at Cox Farms at Foamhenge, a recreation of Stonehenge.
Gabriel Homes resident at Cox Farms at Foamhenge, a recreation of Stonehenge.
Description of Foamhenge, a recreation of Stonehenge, at Cox Farms.

Gabriel Homes residents meeting goats at Cox Farms.

Animal Friends at Cox Farms

Everyone then made their way toward the petting zoo. Guests often can pet the animals through fences, but the goats roamed openly at Cox Farms! The goats were especially drawn toward Patrick (right), another resident, who was excited to pet them.

The goats weren’t the only farm friends at Cox Farms: The barn introduced guests to baby animals. The two-day-old piglets were undoubtedly the standouts of the barn; the tiniest piglet won Gabriel Homes’ hearts.

Before leaving the farm, everyone took a free pumpkin for themselves. The exit also had a market where residents indulged in a fall favorite treat, apple cider doughnuts. On the ride home, residents were buzzing about the day and left Cox Farms with memories and laughter.

Curious about all our residents’ other adventures?

Learn about other trips and vacations at gabrielhomes.org/stories. More stories at Gabriel Homes

Our residents in action:

Special Olympics Soccer Shines With January November 7, 2024 Read More

Community Corner: The Strength of Employing Adults with IDD November 1, 2024 Read More

Gabriel Homes Visits Cox Farms: Slides, Goats, and Pumpkins October 30, 2024 Read More

Game Shows Boost Brainpower: Angie’s Love of Trivia October 29, 2024 Read More

Karen Brings Personal Perspective to Gabriel Homes Board of Directors October 24, 2024 Read More

Gabriel Homes’ Spooktacular Halloween Party October 22, 2024 Read More

Gabriel Homes Enjoys Local Ice Cream at MooThru Herndon October 16, 2024 Read More

Community Corner: Security for Your Siblings When You’re Out of State October 7, 2024 Read More

Photo for Game Shows Boost Brainpower: Angie’s Love of Trivia October 29, 2024 Game Shows Boost Brainpower: Angie’s Love of Trivia View this Post
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Studies show that watching game shows can enhance problem-solving skills and boost memory retention.

Game shows become fun and engaging because they help keep your mind active and healthy.

Gabriel Homes residents watching game shows.

Tuning in Each Night

Angie is a dedicated fan of the brain games at Gabriel Homes. After a hard day’s work at ECHO, Angie rushes to the couch to tune into the Game Show Network.

“I started watching game shows a long time ago,” Angie says. “I learned I was great at trivia when quiz shows were on, and I became an ace at entertainment categories.”

Switch, a newer show on the network, is one of Angie’s favorites.

Contestants answer trivia questions and switch positions based on how many questions they answer correctly. The more questions one answers correctly, the more likely they will sit at the #1 spot. 

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Game Shows With Friends

Angie often watches shows with Residential Counselor Marlene, but her housemate Chris tends to join her later in the evening. Chris prefers watching the Washington Commanders on Sundays, but he’s open to almost anything during the week. 

“I like all kinds of game shows,” Chris says. “It’s more about being able to spend time with Angie in the evenings. I may not be good at trivia, but Angie’s a pro when she sees the questions.” 

Gabriel Homes resident watching game shows.

If Angie were to compete in any show, she’d want to be on Cash Cab.

Riders answer a series of general questions that get harder and harder. When riders get more questions right, they win more money.

“I’d like to be on TV with any of the game show hosts,” Angie says. “My favorite ones are those who tell jokes with the audience. The funny ones get big laughs out of me.”

Do you have a skill you’d like to share with residents?

You could lead a trivia night at Gabriel Homes! Learn about how you can get involved at gabrielhomes.org.

Teach our residents

News at Gabriel Homes:

Gabriel Homes’ Spooktacular Halloween Party October 22, 2024 Read More

2nd Annual DSPY Awards Celebrates Service Providers October 18, 2024 Read More

Bob Cilinski Named Monsignor by Pope Francis October 10, 2024 Read More

The Treehouse: October 2024 October 7, 2024 Read More

Gabriel Homes Powerlifters Pull a Plane at Dulles Airport October 4, 2024 Read More

29th Annual Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament a HUGE Success! September 17, 2024 Read More

Photo for Empowering Adults with Disabilities: Angela Rivera’s Journey October 28, 2024 Empowering Adults with Disabilities: Angela Rivera’s Journey View this Post
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Social workers are empowering adults with disabilities by advocating for their rights and providing person-centered care.

Their work ensures others can lead fulfilling and independent lives.

Angela Rivera (right), with resident at Gabriel Homes (left).

Empowerment at Gabriel Homes

One new residential counselor at Gabriel Homes, Angela Rivera, has been serving others since she was young. She previously worked as a behavioral technician for children with autism. Now a junior at George Mason University, Angela studies social work so she can stand up for others professionally, like empowering adults with disabilities.

“I always wanted to help others,” says Angela. “In high school, I was president of the student council. I spoke up for others whose voices weren’t heard and made my classmates happy by planning engaging school events.”

Angela’s high school leadership caught the attention of Lynn Davis,

executive director at Gabriel Homes. Through Lynn, Angela became a more confident public speaker and was able to meet more members of her community. 

“Her leadership and commitment to her school and community were inspiring. I was so happy when she applied because I knew she’d do amazing work for our residents.”

Lynn Davis, Executive Director, Gabriel Homes

Gabriel Homes resident at the Boo Bash, a Halloween party. Angela Rivera (right), with resident at Gabriel Homes (left).

Onboarding at Gabriel Homes

Angela believes getting to know Gabriel Homes is fast-paced and exciting. She remembers meeting John and Rich R. on her first day and appreciating their welcoming smiles. Her shifts are with Dave and Rich D., where the three often make dinner together and joke with each other. Angela praises the housemates for being willing to help each other with chores.

“The house is fun when Angela’s around,” says Dave, smiling. “Rich and I have been living together for almost 30 years, but Angela’s sense of humor suits us perfectly even though she’s newer to Gabriel Homes.”

At Gabriel Homes, residents live balanced lives where they live comfortably at home, go to work, and enjoy clubs and other social events.

Learn more about our services at gabrielhomes.org.

Our Services

More stories at Gabriel Homes:

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

Baseball Builds Beautiful Bonds July 22, 2024 Read More

Fast, Efficient, and Quality Cleaning June 20, 2024 Read More

Community Corner: You’ve Got a Friend in Me June 9, 2024 Read More

Lifting Spirits and Fostering Friendships June 6, 2024 Read More

True Strength in Men: Positive Male Spaces May 30, 2024 Read More

Photo for Karen Brings Personal Perspective to Gabriel Homes Board of Directors October 24, 2024 Karen Brings Personal Perspective to Gabriel Homes Board of Directors View this Post
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Diverse nonprofit boards of directors can bring a wide range of perspectives and skills.

At the same time, having a couple of family members directly affected by the nonprofit can bring personal insight and passion.

Karen Chapman

Passion and Vision

Karen Chapman is one member of the Gabriel Homes, Inc. (GHI) Board of Directors who combines personal and professional insight. She was introduced to GHI when her sister Sara became a resident in 2017. Seeing her sister thrive inspired Karen to serve on the board and support others like Sara.

See Karen's bio

“On the personal side, thinking of Sara helps me think of the residents as a whole when I make decisions. My sister has lots of things going on like other residents, so I see how my actions affect everybody.”

Karen Chapman, Gabriel Homes Board of Directors

Through GHI, Karen sees Sara achieving new heights in her independence.

She feels secure knowing Sara has year-round opportunities like working at ECHO or attending church at Saint John Neumann. When GHI takes Sara to summer camp, Karen says she feels peace of mind knowing her sister is supported and cared for.

Read more about GHI and Saint John Neumann “Going to camp is my favorite part of the year. I get to say hi to everyone I miss seeing, and I love going into the pool and jumping off the diving board.” Sara Gabriel Homes Resident Sarah, a resident at Gabriel Homes, meeting the Archbishop.

Long-term planning is a critical aspect of the board’s work.

Karen reaffirms that from her perspective that the board of directors is committed to staying ahead of changing needs. From financial strategic plans to long-term aging plans, one word stands out for Karen: expand.

“One of our goals is to expand the programs and activities for residents. Let’s expand the residents’ opportunities and interests and grow our community.” Karen Chapman, memberof the board of Directors at Gabriel Homes, at the 29th annual golf tournament. Karen Gabriel Homes Board Member

At Gabriel Homes, we believe everyone can thrive when the community comes together.

Learn more about how we open doors to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities at gabrielhomes.org.

Learn More

More stories on the board:

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

An Inside Scoop: Get to Know Elaine Bickel June 4, 2024 Read More

Quality of Life is Critical at Gabriel Homes April 4, 2024 Read More

Photo for Gabriel Homes’ Spooktacular Halloween Party October 22, 2024 Gabriel Homes’ Spooktacular Halloween Party View this Post
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Halloween transforms an ordinary night into one of ghost stories, eerie decorations, and exciting trick-or-treating.

At Gabriel Homes, many of our residents’ favorite part of the holiday is wearing their thrilling costumes.

Gabriel Homes residents at the Boo Bash, a Halloween party.

There's no other Halloween party like it!

Celebrating the early sunsets and changing leaves, Gabriel Homes held the first-ever Boo Bash. Naomi Pariona, program coordinator at Gabriel Homes, worked with her cousin to make a balloon arch that was the centerpiece of the night. The arch drew residents who quickly lined up to take photos with friends.

“I was so happy seeing everyone enjoy themselves. The residents' reactions to the decorations and the games was great. It truly felt very rewarding seeing everything come together after weeks of preparation.”

Naomi Pariona, Gabriel Homes Program Coordinator
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Gabriel Homes residents at the Boo Bash, a Halloween party.

Those who waited weeks...

... to show off their outfits wore them with wide smiles and were excited to ask their friends about their costumes. Sean arrived dressed as Batman, while Caryn and Shelby showed up as flying bunnies. Sam, John B., and Gabe came as Washington Commanders. Patrick was a Pikachu, Lucy showed up as a queen, Stephen arrived as the devil, and John H. wore a Robin Hood costume.

“Everyone had such cool costumes. There were lots of creative costumes, and they gave me ideas for next year’s Boo Bash.”

Kari, Gabriel Homes Resident
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Gabriel Homes staff at the Boo Bash, a Halloween party.

Past Meets Present

Residents’ eyes lit up when they saw Ryan, a former social worker at Gabriel Homes, walk through the door. Ryan was greeted with hugs and high-fives, and everyone was eager to share updates about their lives. Her appearance brought extra joy to an already lively night.

The Halloween party started with a favorite meal at Gabriel Homes, a brisket and pulled pork barbecue with salad and macaroni and cheese. After enjoying the main course, everyone swirled around the seasonal vanilla cake when dessert was ready.

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Gabriel Homes residents at the Boo Bash.
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Gabriel Homes resident at Boo Bash, a Halloween party.
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The wait was finally over for the part of the night residents were most excited for: karaoke.

Like the Spring Fling, there was an endless line of performers waiting to sing their favorite tunes. January had guests belting the chorus of “I Like Candy,” while Shelby brought the house down with Bette Midler’s “The Rose.” John G.’s cover of “Over the Rainbow” was restful for those on their feet all night, and Gabe had everyone dancing again with “Baby Shark.”

“I was waiting months to get on stage and sing 'Born to Be Wild.' The song fired me up once I heard the guitars, and then I was dancing across the stage.” Gabriel Homes resident at Boo Bash, a Halloween party. Sara Gabriel Homes Resident

The night wrapped up with the results of the costume contest.

Rich R. got third place for his charming Dracula costume, and Ryan got second for her dazzling Glinda costume. The grand prize went to Rich D. for his fan-favorite Beetlejuice costume.

“I was surprised when my name was called. I think the wig helped me land first place, but my head got itchy after wearing it for several hours.”

Rich D., Gabriel Homes Resident
Gabriel Homes residents at Boo Bash, a Halloween party.
Gabriel Homes staff at the Boo Bash, a Halloween party.
Gabriel Homes resident at the Boo Bash, a Halloween party.
Gabriel Homes residents at the Boo Bash, a Halloween party.
Gabriel Homes residents at the Boo Bash, a Halloween party.
Gabriel Homes residents at the Boo Bash, a Halloween party.
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Gabriel Homes residents at the Boo Bash, a Halloween party.

Gabriel Homes has activities like the Boo Bash all year long.

Learn more about what life is like as a resident at gabrielhomes.org.

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