Letter from Executive Director, September 1, 2014
On October 14, 2014, The Gate celebrates a milestone, 10 years at Sycamore Tree United Methodist Church in Maryville, TN. In October 2004, four Gate participants began to meet on Tuesdays and Thursdays as part of the newly created Gate - Gateway to Independence, a 501 c3 non- profit. It is doubtful that they could have imagined that 10 years later, in the same space, there would be 49 Gate participants gathered together for fellowship.
The Gate community has grown each year. One can point to many factors that have contributed to the success of The Gate but there is one factor that stands above all others. It is the enthusiasm of the participants! Gate participants reflect the same diversity that exists throughout Blount County. We vary in our educational backgrounds, in our social and economic situations, in our cultural, religious and family lives. We vary in our interests and in our abilities. So, what brings us to this place at this time? It is our desire to be part of each other’s lives and to be part of a community of caring people. It is our desire to give back to our community by being a friend to others in the community. The Gate continues to grow because when prospective participants come, they are welcomed and included. They quickly become an integral part of The Gate family.
At The Gate, we share joy, have fun, and care for each other. We celebrate joyous milestones and grieve together in difficult times. We try new activities, develop new skills, meet new people, and make new friends. We don’t do this alone. We have Gate staff members and volunteers who join and help us in all of our activities. We welcome visitors daily. We are fortunate to have donors who provide financial support that enables us to buy necessary supplies and equipment and donors who come bearing gifts. We have a Board of Directors that works hard to insure that The Gate will be viable and available into the future. Friends of The Gate are a diverse group: schools, corporations, churches, colleges, individuals and service clubs all contribute to our success.
Once you come to The Gate, you are part of the Gate family and are always welcome. We hope you will find time to visit, to share your ideas, or to consider volunteering. We are looking forward to the next 10 years and invite you to be part of our journey.
Sincerely,
Christy Walsh, Executive Director
