June 2026: Summer Starts With Independence
The June 2026 edition of Gabriel Homes’, monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, sees summer coming toward us faster than ever! See stories featuring trips to the movies and watching movies at home, how an anonymous donor has helped create a valuable partnership, and some breaking news you will not want to miss. See more below.
Breaking News:
Gabriel Homes a Finalist for Nonprofit of the Year
Hosted annually by the Greater Reston Chamber of Commerce, the 2026 Awards for Chamber Excellence honor Reston’s most innovative and impactful organizations.
Special thanks to Charles Kapur (left), a senior vice president at John Marshall Bank and member of the GRCC board of directors, for submitting us for an ACE Award.
See the story of our nomination and why Gabriel Homes was nominated at gabrielhomes.org.
Virginia Legislature Passes Major IDD Victories
Dozens of bills supported by families of people with IDD were signed into law. Many victories go into effect this summer.
New laws passed in Virginia include:
- Ignoring Social Security Disability Income when deciding who qualifies for Medicaid Waiver services
- Protecting voting rights for adults with IDD under guardianship
- Expanding police training on interacting with drivers with autism
- and more!
Learn more about all the policy victories signed into law gabrielhomes.org.
The Latest:
Residents Catch Civil War Reenactment
David, a newer resident, and Lucy (first and second photos), saw thousands of actors travel from across the country to recreate the First Battle of Bull Run. As a history buff, David has a collection of books and artifacts about the war.
“I’d never seen a reenactment in person before, but it was exciting! Movies like ‘Gettysburg’ don’t show how big these battles really were.”
How Resident Take Walks to Beat the Heat
Gabriel Homes proudly boasts that its six homes are near walkable, paved trails. Residents know the trails’ routes by heart, and many take regular walks from their home to another.
When the summer heat picks up, some residents prefer to walk in the morning, evening, or indoors instead of the afternoon.
See all the way residents reach their step goals at gabrielhomes.org.
Summer Blockbusters Drive Residents to the Movies
A day at the movies differs from resident to resident. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Gabriel Homes rented out the entire Cinema Arts theater. Some residents were so excited to go out that they dressed in suits to mark the occasion.
“I’m much more excited to go to the movies when it’s an event worth dressing for.”
Donor Spotlight:
The donor spotlight is the latest addition to our newsletter. Each month, Gabriel Homes will spotlight one person, company, or organization whose donations support independence for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Eead a new story each month to see where your donation makes a tangible difference, and make the goal of independence for people of all abilities a reality with your donation at gabrielhomes.org/donate.
Gabriel Homes residents head to MindShift Gym for weekly parkour and dance classes. Courses meet the residents at their skill level and help them move at their preferred pace. Our residents can use these fantastic programs thanks to the support of an anonymous donor.
“Our family foundation is proud to support Gabriel Homes because of the incredible impact they have on the lives of the individuals they serve. Their focus on independence, dignity, and community integration truly sets them apart.
“We hope others will join us in supporting their mission as ongoing donors.”
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.
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