From the Inside Out Programs

 

Here is one success story that encompasses every member of this team and demonstrates our mission. 'Dwight' came here quite some time ago as a quiet, introverted, hopeless person. He didn't speak to anyone, and was not interested in opening up. The front-line workers said hi to him and smiled. They treated him with respect. They sat and ate with him and tried to engage in small talk. We offered him a warm, safe place to sleep and good food to eat.

Eventually, he began to open up. A relationship developed with our nurse and the health care team. A relationship developed with our chaplain and our housing worker. These relationships involved mutual respect. Our nurse was willing to have me call her at home late one Friday night after I had been called in to work by a concerned Front-Line worker. Out of love, our nurse immediately got on the phone to do what was needed at that time to ensure that Dwight got the care he needed. This may have saved his life.

Our chaplain then saw potential in Dwight and began a strong relationship with him. He befriended him, and took him and one other client fishing. This again revealed to Dwight that he was worth something and that people cared for him. He also came to realize that God loves him as well.

Ultimately, Dwight ended up as one of our housing workers clients. He walked with him through several housing options, and finally drove Dwight to his new apartment and helped him move in.

How was all this possible? Because every single member of this team took pride in their work. Everyone was willing to be creative and take risks for the sake of this man. The cleaning staff kept the environment dignified. The front-line workers formed the initial relationship that helped build trust. The health care professionals treated him as a human being. The kitchen staff prepared 3 square meals a day. The counseling staff went the extra mile and spent huge chunks of time with him. Management covered expenses involved with fishing trips, etc. and offered advice along the way. And security made it a safe place for him to be.

Was it all worth it? No question. Is this an environment to be proud of? Absolutely! In all my years in this field, I have not seen a better demonstration of teamwork. I am filled with joy every time I think of what God has brought together here at The Gateway.