Scott Larson Visits Historic Reeves Farmhouse Renovation with HomeAid National Capital Region

During the recent National Alliance to End Homelessness (NAEH) conference in Washington, D.C., I had the privilege of visiting the historic Reeves Farmhouse in Arlington, Virginia, where HomeAid National Capital Region (NCR) is playing a key role in transforming this beloved landmark into a home for individuals with intellectual disabilities. It was an honor to see firsthand the impact of HomeAid NCR led by CEO Kristyn Burr, and joined by Erica Simpson, NCR’s Construction Program Director, to learn all about the project.

This project is a beautiful example of collaboration between several partners working together to create a more inclusive, supportive community. The renovation is focused on preserving the history of the farmhouse while
adding essential space to meet the needs of L’Arche Greater Washington, D.C., a nonprofit that provides housing and support services for adults with intellectual disabilities. This endeavor will not only preserve its character but
will also breathe new life into its interior, adding an extension to welcome more residents and caregivers. The ground floor will come alive with bedrooms, a warm kitchen, a welcoming dining room, and inviting communal spaces. On the second floor, more bedrooms will create a sense of belonging alongside shared office areas and cozy living spaces. The third floor will serve as a haven for productivity with dedicated office and storage space.

HomeAid National Capital Region, Arlington County and Habitat for Humanity of Washington, D.C. & Northern Virginia have teamed up to coordinate the preservation and construction efforts on the farmhouse. Habitat coordinated both interior and exterior remediation efforts, collaborated with the archaeological team to conduct on-site testing, and engaged volunteers to carefully remove the original hardwood flooring, which will be repurposed as part of the home's preservation. HomeAid National Capital Region has brought in Toll Brothers as the Builder Captain along with numerous consultants, trade partners and suppliers for the rebuilding and construction efforts. Toll Brothers will complete the renovation and add a significant expansion to the farmhouse. Their commitment to quality construction and attention to detail will help ensure this home becomes a warm, safe, and dignified place for the people who need it most.

Once the construction project is complete L’Arche Greater Washington, D.C. will manage and provide a home where adults with intellectual disabilities and the wider community can live, learn, and grow together. The farmhouse
will house four adults with disabilities and two full-time staff members, making it a vital step toward addressing the local housing needs for this underserved population. L’Arche is a faith-based community that welcomes people of all backgrounds to share life together. Community life is centered around communal homes and members who have intellectual disabilities, giving those who are too often rejected a valid place in society.

I am incredibly proud of the work that HomeAid National Capital Region, Habitat for Humanity of Washington, D.C. & Northern Virginia, and HomeAid’s Builder Captain, Toll Brothers have done to bring this project to life. This collaboration is a testament to the power of community, and it is a true privilege to witness the positive change we can make when we work together.