When you’re a residential service provider, you’re also a chef, event planner, career coach, fashionista, makeup artist, trainer, and more.
Celebrating Our DSPs
Keynote speakers Mikelle Murray-Jarosz (left) and Nancy Mercer (right) of Inclusion Consultants championed these thoughts at the second annual Direct Support Provider of the Year Awards (DSPYs). Nancy celebrated all the roles DSPs tackle for residents, while Michelin touched upon all the work our service providers do.
Over 100 attendees came together for the DSPYs, which celebrated providers across Northern Virginia for wearing endless job hats for residents. Held by the NOVA Coalition of Providers, a diverse panel selected nine winners and over 50 nominees out of over 400 submissions.
“It feels good to see staff being recognized across the region. Recognizing them shows that their work makes a difference. Seeing them be rewarded for their hard work is wonderful.”
Naomi Pariona, Gabriel Homes Residential Counselor
Four Gabriel Homes staff were finalists for awards.
Reuben was on the shortlist for the Marathon Award for his decades of service to the residents. Karen was nominated for the Community Engagement Award for setting up weekend activities for residents. Jackie’s validation and advocacy for the residents made her a finalist for the Compassion Award. And Essence was shortlisted for the Positivity Award thanks to her encouragement of residents and ability to lift her teammates’ spirits.
Read about our finalists “I cannot overstate how important our staff are to our residents. The world needs more people like our DSPs, and we are so lucky to have people like our finalists at Gabriel Homes.”
Beth Hoyos
Director, Quality Improvement and Clinical Oversight
Every day, residents celebrate victories, big and small, with the support of our staff.
Read inspiring stories from our residents at gabrielhomes.org/stories. Read more storiesMore news at Gabriel Homes:
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 dddcd
Ice cream is over 4,000 years old and originates in Ancient China.
Early versions of the snack were made by mixing snow with honey and fruit.
Local Ice Cream in Herndon
Many Gabriel Homes residents who toured the MooThru in Herndon enjoyed the ancient treat. Founded in Northern Virginia, MooThru parlors are known for their local ice cream being hand-crafted and slow churned.
“We mainly serve the Herndon and Reston communities, but we do spirit days and fundraisers across Northern Virginia because we love giving back,” said Frank Kenney, manager of MooThru Herndon. “I feel phenomenal when I see adults like the residents come in and have their special treats because they love them so much.”
MooThru's mascot is a fan favorite for one resident.
The ice cream shop uses a cow as its mascot to connect a playful spirit to the farm-fresh dairy. Cows strike a chord for Shelby, who says they’re her favorite animal. Several years ago, Gabriel Homes took Shelby and other residents on a trip to Wisconsin, a state that has more than 3 million cows and produces over 25 billion gallons of milk each year. Shelby talks about Wisconsin to this day and holds cow-themed birthday parties with her friends.
Read more about the Wisconsin tripMooThru staff gave residents a tour of the store.
Residents saw the different types of ice cream and how they’re served, from cups and cones to soft and hard serve. Shelby and two residents, January and Kari, were enchanted by all the different toppings.
Shelby
Gabriel Homes Resident
An Assortment of Flavors
Caryn went for the classic mint chocolate chip, and Patrick toasted his raspberry sherbet with Chris, who enjoyed chocolate. John G. ordered a unique flavor of the bunch, blackberry ice cream. Meanwhile, Sara went for the famous ice cream sundae.
“My favorite type of sundae is the brownie sundae,” Sara said. “Brownies are delicious treats in ice cream because they’re another way to enjoy chocolate.”
With almost 20 residents in attendance, the MooThru ice cream social left sweet memories in everyone’s minds.
Many residents caught up with close friends from other homes and compared their ice creams. The evening wrapped up with smiles and stories as everyone headed toward their rides home.
Residents may have daily routines at their jobs, but events like the ice cream social show no two days look the same.
If you’re looking to become a resident of Gabriel Homes, or if you’re curious about what a day might look like, see what a Day in the Life looks like.
Learn MoreMore stories at Gabriel Homes:
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 Gabriel Homes Powerlifters Pull a Plane at Dulles Airport October 4, 2024 Read More Gwen Murugu: Champion of Independence at Gabriel Homes October 4, 2024 Read More Gabriel Homes Residents Share Their Favorite Music Bands and Genres October 1, 2024 Read More Gabriel Homes Forecasts the 2024 NFL Season September 12, 2024 Read More dddcdMonsignor Bob Cilinski, previously known as Father Bob Cilinski, was named by Pope Francis as Chaplin to His Holiness with the title Monsignor.
The name is a form of address for priests who receive honorific titles from the pope.
Decades of Making a Difference
Monsignors like Rev. Msgr. Cilinski provided valuable leadership to the Church and special function in church governance.
Rev. Msgr. Cilinski served on the Gabriel Homes Board of Directors for 33 years. He became the president two years into his service, where he helped stabilize the organization in its fundraising efforts. Over time, leadership led to the creation of the Gabriel Homes Foundation, which supports other local nonprofits.
“I am truly humbled by being named Monsignor from Pope Francis. His recognition reflects the dedication of everyone I’ve been fortunate to serve with. Serving our residents on the Gabriel Homes board of directors has been a joy of my priesthood, and I am grateful to continue guiding and supporting those in need.”
Monsignor Bob Cilinski
Pope Francis named four additional priests from the Catholic Diocese of Arlington as Monsignors.
Read the full press release at arlingtondiocese.org. Click Here dddcd
The Latest...
Powerlifters Pull a Plane at Dulles Airport
Kicking off the new powerlifting season, our state champions took part in the Dulles Plane Pull to raise money for Special Olympics Virginia.
See photos from the plane pull at gabrielhomes.org, and follow us on social media for the latest on our residents' adventures.
More on the plane pull Facebook Instagram Linkedin Twitter Threads
Chris' Journey of Faith and Service
Chris (front row, right) has been involved with the Knights of Columbus, a fraternal order for Catholic men, for over 13 years. Having served as an officer, Chris took part in council meetings.
Learn more about Chris' service to the Knights at gabrielhomes.org.
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This Year's Golf Tournament Was a Huge Success!
With 117 golfers in near-perfect weather, Gabriel Homes raised over $73,000! Thank you to everyone who attended, sponsored, and volunteered for empowering our residents so they can live independently.
See a recap of the day at gabrielhomes.org.
Read about the golf tournamentMore highlights from the tournament:
Stephen's a New Yorker Through and Through
With a stack of CDs sitting in his bedroom, Stephen plays one group on repeat - The Rat Pack.
Stephen holds the Golden Age tastes close to his heart, from music and television to musical theatre.
Get to know StephenCommunity Corner
Read more on siblings at Gabriel HomesMy family and I may not be in Reston, but Gabriel Homes his a sweet spot for everyone. They make sure my brother has food, is responsible with his money, and can get involved in amazing things like Saint John Neumann Church.
Maureen, Sibling of a Gabriel Homes Resident
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
Shannon Bond-Young
Shannon is a recent member of the board. With over a decade of experience serving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), she's worked every role you can imagine.
She works at the Arc of Northern Virginia as director for the public guardianship program, where she empowers adults with IDD who may not have loved ones who can serve as guardians.
Learn more about ShannonStaff Spotlight
Gwen Murugu
As residential director, Gwen helps track our residents' progress on their individual support plans. She helps keep staff, families, job coaches, and more aligned and informed on each resident's progress.
"Nothing beats seeing the residents exceed their service plans."
-Gwen
Check out Gwen's storyReminder!
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DonateMore stories from Gabriel Homes:
2nd Annual DSPY Awards Celebrates Service Providers October 18, 2024 Read More Gabriel Homes Enjoys Local Ice Cream at MooThru Herndon October 16, 2024 Read More Bob Cilinski Named Monsignor by Pope Francis October 10, 2024 Read More The Treehouse: October 2024 October 7, 2024 Read More Community Corner: Security for Your Siblings When You’re Out of State October 7, 2024 Read More Gabriel Homes Powerlifters Pull a Plane at Dulles Airport October 4, 2024 Read More Gwen Murugu: Champion of Independence at Gabriel Homes October 4, 2024 Read More Gabriel Homes Residents Share Their Favorite Music Bands and Genres October 1, 2024 Read More 29th Annual Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament a HUGE Success! September 17, 2024 Read More Gabriel Homes Forecasts the 2024 NFL Season September 12, 2024 Read More The Treehouse: September 2024 September 9, 2024 Read More Board Member and Golf Enthusiast September 5, 2024 Read More
October 7, 2024
Community Corner: Security for Your Siblings When You’re Out of State
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If you live out of state from a sibling with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), you may have to juggle advocacy and individual support plans remotely.
Some situations may be stressful when you live far away, but technology can help bridge the difference.
Siblings tune into Gabriel Homes remotely around the world.
Many residents at Gabriel Homes have siblings who live away from Reston. Some siblings live in California and Italy! No matter where families reside, Gabriel Homes ensures their siblings are on the pathway to success in Reston.
Gabriel Homes reached out to a few siblings who live away from Virginia. They shared their experiences and offered advice for siblings across the United States and abroad:
Beth:
Gabriel Homes leads an annual check-in with the family on how their family member is doing. I don't need to see my brother in person to know he's doing well with Gabriel Homes.
Once, when my dad was on the phone for my brother's check-in, he went over to me and asked me to join him. Being on the call with Dad shifted my thinking about caring for my brother. He has the support of all of us as a family, and the calls make me look at our relationship differently for the better.
Maureen:
When my brother’s company moved from New York to Virginia, so did he! His move ensured he had an incredible network from the start of his next chapter. People who looked out for him moved to Virginia as well. His world grew because he had a world outside his family and Gabriel Homes.
My family and I may not be in Reston, but Gabriel Homes hits a sweet spot for everyone. They make sure he has food, is responsible with his money, and can get involved in amazing things like Saint John Neumann Church.
Carmen:
I may not be close to Reston as much as I used to be, but I’m fortunate that my brother is in a resource-heavy county. Fairfax County has lots of medical assistance for people with special needs.
The Arc of Northern Virginia is a great advocacy and education tool to empower yourself and your sibling. Also take advantage of your networks and talk to other siblings like yourself. I’m active in the Sibling Support Project, where you can ask for advice about hard questions like guardianship.
My brother is self-determined to make his own decisions, and I don't get in the way and critique them. When my brother and I get together, we have a wonderful time together. He gives refreshing points of view when he explains what he’s thinking. My brother is a wonderful person and is such a pleasure to have in my life. I’m proud of his growth since becoming a resident over 25 years ago.
Anonymous Sibling:
Since Covid, siblings should feel more comfortable being remote when their family members are living happy, independent lives. I’m hands-off in my sister’s day-to-day, but I help her with her finances to meet Medicaid and Special Needs Trust requirements.
My brother and I may not live in Virginia anymore, but we have peace of mind knowing our sister is cared for and safe at Gabriel Homes.
Your next chapter at Gabriel Homes
If you’re looking to become a resident and want to learn more about eligibility and other frequently asked questions, learn more at gabrielhomes.org.
The latest Community Corners:
Community Corner: Security for Your Siblings When You’re Out of State October 7, 2024 Read More Board Member and Golf Enthusiast September 5, 2024 Read More Community Corner: Boosting Your Brand With Gabriel Homes August 22, 2024 Read More dddcd
The average 737 airplane weighs at least 50 tons or 100,000 pounds.
Imagine trying to pull one with your bare hands!
Despite the daunting task, Gabriel Homes residents, who won medals at the state powerlifting competition over the summer, were up for the challenge. The team successfully pulled a plane at Dulles Airport to raise money for Special Olympics Virginia. With over two dozen teams registered to pull planes, the event raised over $580,000.
The Special Olympics powerlifting team was the first to pull.
In 80-plus degree weather and no clouds in sight, residents had no complaints pulling first. The team spread out on different sides and positions of the pulling rope and got into forms ready to pull the plane. Led by coach Bill Whiteside, the group pulled in rhythm to use their full strength.
“Pulling a plane doesn’t feel much different compared to our usual training,” Bill joked. “We’re happy everyone was able to join us at Dulles and make a difference for our athletes.”
Many of the powerlifters take part in the plane pull every year. They weren’t alone, either: John, Stephen, Gabe, and Shelby may not compete in lifting, but they were loud when they cheered during the residents’ pull.
“Pulling the plane with some of my closest friends is an amazing experience. The day is better when our friends cheer us on at the bleachers.”
John G.
Gabriel Homes Resident
Celebrating the Plane Pull
The powerlifters received badges from Fairfax County Police after pulling the plane. Residents saw them as tokens of strength for moving the aircraft.
“I show off my badge to everybody I meet!” said Patrick, another powerlifter and resident. “I get a burst of energy at Dulles when everyone watches us. I can’t wait for next year’s plane pull.”
Gabriel Homes residents show strength at the plane pull and in their everyday lives.
Work, sports, and hobbies fill their calendars each week. Visit our Day in the Life page and learn more about our residents’ routines.
Read about a day in the lifeMore sports stories at Gabriel Homes:
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 dddcdWorking in the nonprofit sector can be fulfilling when making a difference can align with personal values.
At Gabriel Homes, staff can follow the residents in developing their independence and self-advocacy.
Lifelong Service
Gwen Murugu, residential director at Gabriel Homes, has served others her entire career. At school, she earned a master’s in special education, but she worried the degree would limit her career paths. Before joining Gabriel Homes, Gwen worked with families struggling to provide for their children and themselves. When she was younger, she was a babysitter and preschool teacher. Gabriel Homes was a shift for Gwen because she could apply her education and serve adults thriving in their communities.
“My background was with families concerned about what would happen to their children,” Gwen said. “To work for a place where success was an option for families was a natural path for me.”
Gwen helps track residents’ progress with individual support plans (ISPs). Plans focus on goals like exercising or doing chores. With staff, families, job coaches, and more, Gwen ensures everyone is on the same page in tracking each resident’s progress. When residents go above and beyond their goals, Gwen ensures everyone has the support they need to continue to succeed.
“We don’t dictate what residents want to do with their lives,” Gwen says. “They’re independent adults with the right to make mistakes like we do. So nothing beats seeing the residents exceed their service plans.”
But success stories come with challenges. When events like illness and weather take unexpected turns, Gabriel Homes pivots to accommodate each resident and communicate with families, transportation, coworkers, and more.
“Gwen brightens the room and makes the most stressful situations easier to manage. Working with over 20 residents, I can rely on Gwen to be calm and help staff stay focused on providing the best support for everyone.”
Lynn Davis
Executive Director, Gabriel Homes
Gwen's memories at Gabriel Homes last a lifetime.
Gwen’s commitment to Gabriel Homes shines through when she can spend time with the residents. Some of her favorite days are when she’s at celebrations and birthday parties in the evenings.
“The residents are happy when they see you because you’re making the effort to be with them,” Gwen says. “Many see staff as their family because they see us more than their friends and immediate family. One of my favorite memories was the spring fling because everyone was together and sang along to karaoke.”
If you’re inspired by Gwen’s dedication to our residents, get involved with Gabriel Homes!
See how you can make a difference in residents’ lives at gabrielhomes.org.
Get InvolvedCommunity stories at Gabriel Homes:
Community Corner: Security for Your Siblings When You’re Out of State October 7, 2024 Read More Board Member and Golf Enthusiast September 5, 2024 Read More Community Corner: Boosting Your Brand With Gabriel Homes August 22, 2024 Read More Community Corner: Ways Siblings of Family Members With IDD Can Empower Themselves August 15, 2024 Read More Community Corner: It’s An Annual Tradition! July 12, 2024 Read More Community Corner: You’ve Got a Friend in Me June 9, 2024 Read More dddcd
Music can help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities express their emotions and connect with others.
Many Gabriel Homes residents bond over singing their favorite songs at events like the Spring Fling.
No two residents have the same music tastes at Gabriel Homes. You can find residents listening to show tunes, rock, and jazz under the same roof! From timeless classics to modern hits, residents’ favorite music is as diverse as they are:
John G.:
I listen to Christmas music throughout the year! Nat King Cole’s Christmas album plays on repeat on my music player. His voice is relaxing and his music is timeless.
Dave:
I like rock music more now than I used to. Def Leppard, AC/DC, and Black Sabbath have memorable singers and unforgettable cords. I try to play what they play when I pick up the guitar.
Country is another favorite genre because the music is comfortable and familiar.
Shelby:
I can play a few songs on piano like “Heart and Soul” and “The Itsy Bitsy Spider,” but I prefer to sing. “Walk Like a Man” by The Four Seasons is my favorite song to sing along to because of Frankie Valli’s high voice. “Country Roads” by John Denver is also fun because everyone sings with me.
Dave:
I like rock music more now than I used to. Def Leppard, AC/DC, and Black Sabbath have memorable singers and unforgettable cords. I try to play what they play when I pick up the guitar.
Country is another favorite genre because the music is comfortable and familiar.
Rich (right):
My music taste is all over the place. I like Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, Lionel Ritchie, Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder, ABBA, The Beach Boys – I could go on and on. To keep it simple, if they play good music, I listen to them!
John H. (left):
ABBA is my favorite band. “Mamma Mia” and “Mamma Mia: Here We Go Again” are my two favorite movies because of the ABBA songs. Donna and Sophie are great characters, and Greece looks beautiful in both movies.
My favorite scene from either of the two movies is when Lily James (Young Donna) sings “When I Kissed the Teacher” in the second movie.
One resident, Stephen, likes Frank Sinatra because they’re both from New York.
Get to know Stephen at gabrielhomes.org/stories.
Other interests at Gabriel Homes:
Gabriel Homes Enjoys Local Ice Cream at MooThru Herndon October 16, 2024 Read More Gabriel Homes Residents Share Their Favorite Music Bands and Genres October 1, 2024 Read More Gabriel Homes Chases Thrills at Kings Dominion August 28, 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 Sean’s Enchanted Journey: A Dash of Magic July 31, 2024 Read More A Brush of Genius May 20, 2024 Read More A Gabriel Homes Singalong April 25, 2024 Read More Walking With Gabriel Homes March 13, 2024 Read More dddcd
Gabriel Homes raised over $73,000 at the 29th annual golf tournament at Evergreen Country Club in Haymarket, Virginia.
117 golfers swung into action at one of Virginia’s most scenic courses as the trees transitioned from greens to reds.
Recap of the Day
The tournament kicked off with some remarks from Monsignor Bob Cilinski, followed by teams of four driving their carts on the 18-hole course. Partly cloudy skies and 75-degree weather were the perfect backdrop for the trips across the course.
“Gabriel Homes prospers when the community comes together,” said Michele Bolos, chair of the Gabriel Homes Board of Directors. “I am thankful for everyone who participated in this year’s tournament because their support ensures our residents can live comfortably and independently.”
Recap of the Day
When the friendly competition wrapped up, Gabriel Homes celebrated Cilinski’s new title, followed by a prayer led by the monsignor. Dinner and prize drawings reenergized the crowd after their time on the links. The super prize was a beautiful painting by local artist Mike Flynn.
The evening closed with heartfelt thanks from Lewis, a brother of a Gabriel Homes resident who spoke about his sister’s success and independence.
The highlight of the tournament was the community’s shared passion for our residents and for giving back.
Proceeds from the tournament go toward empowering adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities so they can focus on achieving their goals.
Lynn Davis
Executive Director, Gabriel Homes
Gabriel Homes sends a special thank you to this year’s Guardian Angel sponsors: All-Saints Catholic Church, The Anderson Company, B&B Signal Company, Catholic Diocese of Arlington, Nativity Catholic Church, NT Concepts, and Paul Gallagher.
Extra thanks to Mid-Atlantic Power Specialist, Havtech, Utilities Unlimited, LLC, and Mike and Kathy Holupka for sponsoring our lunch, dinner, beverages, and gifts respectively.
See you on September 15, 2025!
If you are interested in joining us at next year’s tournament, email info@gabrielhomes.org for more information.
dddcd
The 2024 NFL season kicks off!
17.9 million viewers tuned into NFL games in 2023 on average. Gabriel Homes residents were no strangers to the NFL last season, and the homes held Super Bowl watch parties.
Some of the residents share their favorite teams in a previous story, and many look forward to fresh slates for the 2024 season. With several weeks of NFL action in the books, Gabriel Homes residents are forecasting how the new season will shape.
Read about residents' favorite teams
“I hope we come home with a third Super Bowl in a row. Patrick Mahomes is the best player in the league. Nobody can stop him.” 
Dave Kansas City Chiefs Fan & Gabriel Homes Resident 
Any Given Sunday
Rich R. (left) and John H., two housemates, are Cleveland Browns fans. Knowing the team’s up-and-down performances over the past few years, both set lower expectations for the season.
“I think the Baltimore Ravens walk away with the title,” says Rich R. “I know the Ravens are rivals to my favorite team, but Lamar Jackson and the team around him are great.”
Seeing Rich R. and John struggle watching the Browns, Rich D. feels he can relate to them. He has little hope this season for his favorite team, the New York Giants.
“I’m praying for the Giants,” says Rich D., laughing. “Tommy DeVito is a good backup quarterback, but I have to wait and see how the Giants do before I get my hopes up.”
Being in the D.C. area...
... many Gabriel Homes residents are, predictably, Washington Commanders fans. John B. (right) wears his Commanders gear when he’s not rooting for Liverpool Football Club, Chris likes wearing his Commanders ‘W’ logo hat around the house during the week, and Sam has a bedspread with the team’s old logo. Many are hopeful for Washington because of the new coach and quarterback, but like Rich D., their expectations are cautious.
When you tune into the NFL this weekend, remember that many at Gabriel Homes are cheering alongside you this season.
Some residents don’t leave their love of sports at home.
Many play in sports leagues themselves! Learn more about sports residents compete in at gabrielhomes.org/stories.
More on sports at Gabriel Homes:
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
A Striking Success March 2, 2024 Read More
Special Olympics Powerlifting February 24, 2024 Read More
The Power of Lifting February 24, 2024 Read More
What Teams Do Gabriel Homes Residents Root For? February 20, 2024 Read More