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 home 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.