The Gate was created in 2004 in response to a community need. One current participant, Russell Hogsed, was ready to graduate from Maryville High School. Russell has significant disabilities that make him unable to walk, talk or care for himself. In spite of that, he exudes a joy for life. He thoroughly enjoys being out in the community and social interactions. As Russell, his parents, and his teachers looked into the future, there was a void. There was not a program or organization within our community offering the appropriate opportunities for Russell.
Russell's parents, Shirley and Frank Hogsed, along with two special educators, Jo Bennett and Liz Crawford Scott, were determined that Russell would not be left at home with a life of isolation. With this determination they created Gate - Gateway to Independence as a place where adults with various disabilities could come together to achieve independence by engaging in social and pre-vocational activities.
The program started with 5 participants and has grown to over seventy adults who come together three days each week to enjoy the company of peers, staff and community volunteers. In addition to the participants enjoying themselves at The Gate, their caregivers (parents, siblings, guardians... etc.) have a respite of several hours per week knowing that the participants are safe and having fun.
The focus of the program is on enhancing social skills and pre-vocational skills in a caring community. The participants may be playing games (Wii and UNO are most popular) , working on crafts, participating in Special Olympics practice, listening to and making music, going bowling or just talking with friends.
The Gate is a 501c3 corporation. The program is funded by donations, grants, fundraisers and a small participant fee.
