OUR MISSION
Establish and maintain programs and facilities that improve the quality of life and independence for the Developmentally Disabled.
WHO WE ARE
Since 1963, Gatesway has provided opportunities for independence to thousands of people with developmental disabilities in Eastern and Central Oklahoma through a full array of residential and vocational options. By adapting to the needs of those they serve, Gatesway has remained on the cutting edge in offering innovative services to our clients. The Gatesway goal is to assure that the people we serve acquire the life skills, vocational skills and social skills necessary to help them live and work as independently as possible and become a vital part of their community.
OUR HISTORY
The options for people in Oklahoma with developmental disabilities in 1963 were very limited. These facilities were often large and impersonal that provided very little in the way of training opportunities and growth.
Helen Gates was notified by the school system that her son Ronnie, who had turned 20, would have to be transferred to a state institution or to a geriatric nursing facility. Ronnie had Downs Syndrome.
In 1963, at the corner of 71stand Lewis in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Mrs. Gates rented a farmhouse where Ronnie and five other individuals were able to live. Families and volunteers were essential to the success of this group home as at that time there was no funding available to subsidize food, clothing, shelter, and staff for services to people with developmental disabilities living in the community.
In 1972 government funding became available and land was donated in Broken Arrow where an intermediate care facility was built.
Today with more than 600 staff members, and numerous volunteers, the Gatesway Team continues to serve its many residents “one individual at a time.”
ACHIEVING SUCCESS WITHIN THE GATESWAY VOLUNTEER PROGRAM
Successful volunteers follow a professional code of ethics. Your commitment to this code of ethics is demonstrated by your attitude, dependability, communication, confidentiality and support of the Gatesway Client, Client’s Family, Staff and Board of Directors.
To be a success in your voluntary efforts you should:
- Punctually report for your agreed assignment; dressed appropriately with proper identification and ready to go to work.
- Contact your Supervisor or the Auxiliary Coordinator when you cannot report to work so that a replacement can be found.
- Conduct yourself in a professional, helpful and courteous manner with clients, client’s family and staff.
- Ask questions if you are unsure of a situation or action.
- Respect the confidentiality of information regarding Gatesway clients.
- Discuss any concerns you may have with the Auxiliary Coordinator.
OUR VOLUNTEERS
It takes a special person to be a volunteer and a VERY SPECIAL PERSON to be a Gatesway Volunteer. You have to love unconditionally and give with no strings attached. You have to have an open and accepting mind, a big heart and a little ego. You are expected to have the wisdom of Solomon and the patience of Job. You need to be able to schedule your time while staying flexible to fit in those last minute requests. You are often the first person to show-up and the last to be thanked. You are in fact a saint and a miracle worker.If you are looking for a rewarding and sometimes challenging place to volunteer your time then Gatesway is the place for you. You can choose to help in the Anne Zarrow Medical/Dental Clinic, Gatesway Re-Sale Store or the Balloon Fest. You may want to assist our staff with Halloween & Christmas parties, Individual birthday parties, bingo nights and dances. Maybe you would like to experience them all. Wherever you decide to help you will find many opportunities to use your talents and creativity.
And to become one of our Volunteers is very simple.
- Fill out and return the following application.........DOWNLOAD NOW!
- Meet with the Auxiliary Coordinator to determine the opportunities that best suite your interests
- Complete our 1?2 day Orientation/Training Course
At Gatesway we know how important you are to our individuals. YOU ARE OUR LIFEBLOOD. You provide the loving care they want and need. We hope you will consider working with us at Gatesway. Please contact us today.
|
