Residents at Gabriel Homes take pride in their journeys toward independence.
Independence continues for years at Gabriel Homes.
Many of the residents’ stories at Gabriel Homes have lasted decades at our homes in Reston and Herndon. On average, residents have called us home for over 22 years, nearly double the usual length of U.S. homeownership.
Four residents, Caryn, Shelby, Sean, and Gabe, are celebrating 30 years of living at Gabriel Homes this year! The quartet might have moved in around the same time, but they have vastly different stories of independence, growth, and triumph.
First-hand account of our residents' growth years later:
Reuben Sidifall, senior residential counselor at Gabriel Homes, joined the staff in 1997; Beth Hoyos, director of quality improvement and clinical oversight at Gabriel Homes, started in 1998. The residents may have lived independently at Gabriel Homes three years before Reuben and Beth’s start dates, but few other staff have been able to see them grow into the confident decision–makers they are today.
Shoutout to Shelby!
“I’m happy here for 30 years. I work hard every day, and I save money for special trips and events. My friends and I celebrated my birthday in June, and I bought KFC for everybody. Caryn, Patrick, John, Sara, and Chris are great housemates. We get along well and are respectful of each other’s personal spaces.”
“Shelby brought a breath of fresh air with her musical talents and sweet personality 30 years ago. Today, her loving outlook is unchanged. She’ll always remind you what holiday is coming up and what color you should wear that day. Watching Shelby make independent choices that lead her to her goals is what makes my job feel so rewarding.”
Cheers to Caryn!
“The past 30 years have been amazing. Shelby and I moved in at the same time, and we’ve become best friends who understand each other. I’ve gotten much better at cooking, and I can now make delicious pasta – ask John!
“I’m also a more talented artist. I like making flags using red, white, and blue construction paper. You can see lots of my work around home!”
“Caryn was determined to live on her terms when she moved to Gabriel Homes. In 30 years, she’s learned to speak up for herself and her friends. Caryn leads by example by handling her housework and other personal tasks independently. If you see her, ask her to teach you sign language!”
Salute to Sean!
“Thirty years can come and go. I do more with the residents than ever, from adult social club to Special Olympics and movie nights. When I make dinner on Men’s Night, the guys like my sandwiches and tomato soup. The staff are great, too. They spend so much time driving us for trips and getting to know us better.”
“Sean perfectly reflects our mission by living a full, independent life. Since moving to Gabriel Homes, he’s become a leader for his housemates. Sean holds staff and residents accountable for being on time and having their essentials before leaving home. He’s grown so much over time, and he hasn’t planned to stop learning!”
Give It up for Gabe!
“I’ve liked living here for 30 years. When I get home from work, I watch the Washington Nationals or Baltimore Orioles on the basement TV. I’m now much better at fixing the TV if it’s not showing anything. When I cook dinner, my housemates really like my Hamburger Helper. Reuben is a big help in the kitchen!”
“Gabe has greatly improved at being independent and managing his anxiety. I’ve worked with him on breathing exercises when he’s gotten overwhelmed at large crowds. He’s been able to do laundry on his own and is great at separating the light clothes from dark ones. And he can cook a great Hamburger Helper meal!”