Broken Arrow, OK, Nov. 21, 2024 – The Gatesway Foundation has completed a $7 million capital campaign to improve housing and enhance the quality of life for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) in Oklahoma. 

Gatesway, a historic nonprofit serving Oklahoma’s I/DD community for more than 60 years, supports approximately 300 individuals annually with housing and wrap-around services. In December 2021, the Foundation launched a multiphase capital campaign to build new homes on its campus, provide individualized living solutions, enhance programs and expand services.

Critical campus improvements, which are expected to be completed in 2025, include:

• Construction of four new 8-bed, 8-bath cottages to seamlessly blend privacy with a sense of community  
• Renovations of 32 on-campus units
• The Graves Grand Patio, a spacious outdoor pavilion and living area designed for social gatherings and recreational activities
• Outdoor, ADA-accessible exercise park 

As Gatesway’s new housing project progresses, the organization is seeking donations of furniture and household items to enhance the living experience for residents. Contributions can be made by contacting info@gatesway.org. 

Gatesway is also collaborating with the City of Broken Arrow to plan a transformative apartment complex on its local campus, addressing critical housing needs across multiple community segments. This project aims to provide accessible and affordable housing for healthcare workers seeking workforce housing, residents who do not qualify for state-funded disability services and guardians or family members of the I/DD Community. Designed to bridge gaps in local housing infrastructure, the project is expected to offer inclusive living opportunities that meet diverse needs. Currently, the initiative remains in the planning and approval stages.

“Our initiative goes beyond traditional barriers, addressing the urgent housing needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). A significant portion of Tulsa’s homeless population is living with disabling conditions, and we are committed to providing inclusive housing solutions that will benefit our entire community,” said Greg Arend, CEO of the Gatesway Foundation. “Inspired by our founder Helen Gates, who, in 1962, boldly declared ‘It’s not good enough’ when unable to find suitable housing for her son Ronnie, the Gatesway housing project reflects our enduring commitment to creating dignified and supportive living environments.” 

Approximately one in four adults live with a disability, and 13 percent of the U.S. population belongs to the disability community. Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities often face significant challenges, including being underserved, living in poverty and facing an elevated risk of homelessness. Gatesway is committed to addressing these issues by creating safe, high-quality housing across Green Country, offering stability, dignity and essential support to those who need it most.

“The overwhelming support from the community has ignited a movement that is shaping meaningful change for the disability community. We are deeply grateful to our donors, whose generosity is making these life-changing initiatives possible,” added Arend.

The campaign received support from 78 generous individual donors and the following community partners: Morningcrest Healthcare Foundation, John and Sarah Graves, Inasmuch Foundation, William K. Warren Foundation, Hardesty Family Foundation, Regent Bank, Crossland Construction, Grace and Franklin Bernsen Foundation, David O. Hogan, Zink Family Foundation, Barber & Bartz, Mabee Foundation, Federal Home Loan Bank of Topeka, Pearl M. and Julia J. Harmon Foundation, Helmerich Foundation, E.L. and Thelma Gaylord Foundation, TJ & T Properties, Quality First Medical Supplies, Jade Treasures, Paycom, Wired Solutions LLC, Air Streams LLC, Norman Wohlgemuth LLP, and Molded Products. More than $4 million in government grants and funding has been secured, with strict compliance and reporting requirements in place to ensure transparent fund management.

More information about the project can be found at www.gatesway.org/settingstandards 

About Gatesway Foundation, Inc.:  Gatesway is a non-profit Oklahoma agency that encourages independence and provides opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities to enable them to live and work in the community and improve their quality of life.

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