Dallas stands as a premier city, yet on this night, around 5,000 children along with their families will lack a secure place to lay their heads.
by Tricia White | Managing Editor
Since its inception in 1986 by former Mayor Annette G. Strauss, Family Gateway has diligently supported homeless families for almost three decades. Beyond providing safe housing and extensive case management, Family Gateway collaborates with various partner organizations to offer an array of services. These include mental and physical health care, job readiness training, GED prep classes, afterschool programs, and much more.
The Goss-Michael Foundation recently hosted the 2015 Gateway to Opportunity Sponsor Party, recognizing the contributions of the host committee, sponsors, and this year’s volunteer award winners.
The upcoming luncheon on November 5th will feature Judge Glenda Hatchett, a prominent figure in addressing juvenile and social issues, and a passionate advocate for children. This event aims to raise awareness on juvenile matters while generating crucial funds to combat child homelessness in our community. The event is co-chaired by Rich Moses and Selwyn Rayzor, with Ruth Sharp Altshuler serving as Honorary Chair.
OVERALL ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR
SuperShuttle
Represented by Ken Harcrow
For its generous contributions to Family Gateway at Sparkle!, ensuring children in the program received new toys during Christmas, adopting three rooms at the Center, and always being readily available to provide transportation for children on field trips.
CONGREGATION OF THE YEAR
Northway Christian Church
Represented by Sharon Gardner, Samantha Durst, Connie True
For adopting two rooms at the Center, donating personal care and laundry items, providing financial support for renovations, and maintaining a strong commitment to volunteerism by serving meals, hosting special art workshops for the children, and organizing the annual Boo Bash.
COMPANY OF THE YEAR
North Dallas Bank & Trust Co.
Represented by Landa Shaw and Allen Hudson
For adopting a room at the Center and supporting a family during the holiday season, along with providing numerous in-kind donations like back-to-school uniforms, winter clothing, and summer games for the children.
VOLUNTEER INDIVIDUAL OF THE YEAR
Cullen Corr
For his generous contribution of a $10,000 check to initiate Family Gateway’s Education Endowment during the Education is Key event, raising funds for a designated room for teens, organizing tutoring and volunteer projects, and donating a new van through the Kids Helping Kids initiative.
VOLUNTEER FAMILY OF THE YEAR
Sarah & Robert Shields (not pictured)
For taking responsibility for four rooms at the Center, financially supporting children’s summer excursions, donating Christmas presents, being committed Guild Members, and hosting a suit drive in collaboration with Q Clothier to ensure fathers are appropriately attired for job interviews.
Photo credit: Howard Taper
