The Gatehouse® Testimonials

The positive measure of a program is the life changing impact it makes on its participants. Read what others have said ...

March 13th, 2010 

Hi everyone,

I just wanted to write and thank you both for your thoughtful card, and for the opportunity to visit the Gatehouse and learn more, first-hand, about the work you do.

On a professional level, it is fantastic to hear about the incredible work you do helping children get through the most difficult times of their lives, and helping adults on their road to healing after the terrible experiences they have had.  You all clearly have a passion for what you do, and it shows in the work the Gatehouse is doing and in the pride you show for the house and the children who have blossomed in your care.  I've often heard about places like yours from Steve, but seeing it in person is completely different.  It really hits home.

On a personal level, I wanted you to know that I was incredibly moved by my visit and went home to gush to friends and my husband about how you all spend so much time and energy helping others.  It's inspiring.

Thank you for all that you do and please keep in touch.

Christina McDonald

Senior Communications Advisor | Conseillère principale en communications
Federal Ombudsman for Victims of Crime | l'Ombudsman Fédéral des victimes d'actes criminels 

“I do my job well because of The Gatehouse” 
A  child abuse investigator on The Gatehouse environment and support…

 “This is the best place!..”
 6yr old boy after abuse interview

“Informative and Interactive.” and  “Being abuse specific, the training touched on  many other issues which made learning all the more easy and interesting.
Alpha House staff participant in agency training  on Receiving Disclosure

 “I used to hate myself. I couldn’t stand to look at myself in the mirror. Now, I want to help others, I want them to know there is a light at the end of the tunnel.”

“The (Gatehouse) Adult Support Network allowed me the forum and the opportunity, amongst a group of men, to put the pain and trauma out there as confession without the consequence of punishment. What I got back was the reassurance of confidence, worthiness and validation as a good and caring citizen of the world….We cannot heal in isolation; we can heal when we reconnect in a community that welcomes us and guides us in community to fill the “Black Hole”. The Adult Support Network was all of this for me. I knew the very moment that I crossed the threshold of the front door that I was reclaiming my humanity and self respect, and purging my shame and guilt because I was welcomed in a way to finally share with a community of others…”.

 “…attending The Gatehouse was a really good experience I will not soon forget.  They gave me the tools to live a healthier life.  I attended a woman’s group – I never liked group work, but this was such a good group that I have recommended it to friends and family.  I am involved with a mentor and I look forward to going for our walks and talks.  This has been beneficial to me because I am no longer stuck in a rut.
Participant on The Gatehouse Adult Support Network group experience

“This has been such a positive experience for me that now I would like to give back to The Gatehouse through their volunteer programs.  I would also like to be a mentor to give back what I was given.”
Volunteer