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In July of 1994,
a group
of St. Mary of Sorrows Knights of Columbus Council members began the initial
planning to purchase a house that would enable a group of individuals to live independently
because of the great need for additional community-based housing options
for persons with intellectual disabilities.
The Council established a non-profit organization now known as Marian Homes,
Inc. for the purpose of purchasing and maintaining group homes.
The men contacted
Chimes Virginia, a not-for-profit human service provider, and entered into a
partnership with them, all under the supervision of the Fairfax County
Community Service Board. The first home, called Marian House, was then purchased in the Brecon Ridge
subdivision - a picturesque community of single family homes in Fairfax
- and renovated to accommodate
wheelchairs. On August 10, 1998, an official ribbon cutting ceremony opened Marian Homes to five women whom previously resided
at home or in state
supported facilities. Since
that date, the Council has continued to provide ownership support to Marian
Homes through its many fundraising activities. Marian Homes has
become a model in the community for its assistance to persons with intellectually
disabilities.
Based on the success of the first home, the Board of Directors
decided in November of 2009 to move forward in the pursuing the purchase
of a second home. A suitable house was found in the Greenbriar
subdivision and settlement occurred in April 2010. After a number of
minor renovations, the first resident moved into the house, now named
Regina House, on September 25, 2010. The next two residents moved in the
first week of November, 2010. The partnership with Chimes continues as
Chimes will provide day-to-day care for the residents. Marian Homes has
become a model to the community in providing support to the
intellectually disabled. |