As I reflect on this past year, I am amazed at how many awesome things God has done here at Gateway Woods.

I wanted to share the “Top 10” Highlights from 2019.

1. Gateway Farms: From weekly stops at the farm stand, to the “Farm-to-Table” meal hosted by GW Farms, it has been so great to see how God is using produce to grow residents while connecting with our local community in a positive way.
2. Hog & Jog: This community event featured a 5K run/walk and pulled pork tacos for lunch afterward. We were blessed with our largest crowd yet (over 200 runners). A special thank-you to Bro. Alan and Sis. Wendy Edelman who traveled out from central Illinois to roast the hog for us!
3. Reconnecting with Former Residents: Our family had the opportunity to reconnect with eight of our former residents. It is a highlight for us to be able to catch up with these ‘kids’ that have now grown up into young adults. Sharing in their joys and struggles gives us an opportunity to continue to reflect Christ’s love to them!
4. Basketball Night at the Coliseum: A former resident (DJ) rented out the Fort Wayne Coliseum for staff and current residents to enjoy a night of fun, fellowship and basketball. This was his way of giving back to a ministry that impacted him greatly!
5. New Houseparent Supervisor: In May, Reginald Blackmon joined the management team as the new Houseparent Supervisor. As a staff, we are blessed by his testimony of faith that displays God’s redemptive work by bringing him from the gang life on the streets of Chicago to a follower of Jesus Christ.
6. Houseparents Answering the Call: We are so thankful that God has called Bro. Clint and Sis. Sydnee Schumacher, Bro. Nathan and Sis. Michelle Braker, Bro. Quinn and Sis. Sarah Fiechter, Sis. Kacie Klopfenstein and Sis. Sarah Lehman out to serve. Each of them bring unique gifts, talents, and experiences that God is using to impact the lives of the youth we serve.
7. Foster-to-Adopt: 10 children have found new forever homes through 7 foster families that have fostered-to-adopt this year.
8. 2019 Auction: We were blessed with great weather, sweet fellowship, and yet another amazing year of witnessing God’s provision.
9. WillowBridge Transitional Apartments Open: There has been a huge need in our community for stable housing for young people aging out of foster care and residential care. These transitional apartments offer not only stable housing but also accountability and spiritual nurturing for these youth so they can successfully transition from dependence to independence.
10. New Believers: Witnessing 3 LARC kids share their testimony of faith and be baptized together, is by far my highpoint of this past year! “I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” -Jesus, Luke 15:10