October 2026: Going the Distance at Every Level
The October 2026 edition of Gabriel Homes’ monthly newsletter, The Treehouse, shows the amazing achievements of our residents, staff, and community! See how we made history at this year’s Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament, how one staff member won an award for 29 years of service, and the role that competing in and watching sports plays in our residents’ lives. Then check out the third part of our five-part series with ECHO. See everything and more below.
The Latest:
Reuben Sidifall Wins Marathon DSPY Award
Reuben Sidifall (center), senior residential counselor at Gabriel Homes, won the Marathon Award at the 2026 Direct Support Professional of the Year Awards for his 29 years of service.
His DSPY is the latest example of the dedication of the Gabriel Homes staff. The residents’ independence is a testament to that.
Powerlifters Pull a Plane at Dulles Airport
Residents who compete in Special Olympics powerlifting pulled a 90 thousand-pound 737 plane as a team. After each athlete won at least one gold medal at states this summer, they wanted to prove their success was no accident.
“I wore my powerlifting gloves and stretched so my hands and arms wouldn’t hurt when we pulled the plane.”
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.
January and Rich Catch a 7-6 Nationals Win
Although both teams were knocked out of the playoffs, the Nats and Mets finished the regular season in exciting fashion. January (left) and Rich (right), fans of the Nats and Mets respectively, caught one of September’s most exciting matchups.
“Baseball is more fun when you see it at the stadium. My favorite memories were going into D.C. to see them play.”
Dave and David Push Themselves at Sky Meadows State Park
The gentlemen tested their endurance on the Piedmont Overlook Trail, a two-mile walk with a steep one-mile climb to the overlook followed by the same mile back.
“Learn more about the climb on the Piedmont Overlook trail at.”
Learn more about the climb on the Piedmont Overlook trail at gabrielhomes.org.
Donor Spotlight:
31st Annual Gabriel Homes Golf Tournament Delivers Historic Numbers
Gabriel Homes raised nearly $93,000 at the 31st Annual Golf Tournament. 128 golfers swung into action in celebration of community, competition, and generosity.
See dozens of pictures from the tournament and how our golfers, sponsors, and volunteers made a difference for our residents’ independence at gabrielhomes.org.
Partner Spotlight: How Stephen Steps up as a Leader at Gabriel Homes and ECHO
This article is the third of a five-part series between ECHO and Gabriel Homes. See how ECHO’s programs empower participants and how Gabriel Homes residents apply what they learn in everyday life independently.
During the week, Stephen works at the ECHO Barkery, a local dog treat business that provides employment opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. He helps fulfill orders, packages products, and performs quality-control checks.
See how his confidence at work empowers Stephen to be a role model of independence to his housemates at gabrielhomes.org.
Important 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.