Happy Anniversary, Gateway!

April is the 10-year anniversary of the opening of Gateway House of Peace, here is an interview with Joni Hanchett, the founder.

Q1) If you had to choose one thing, what would you describe as the most difficult part of beginning Gateway House of Peace? 

The most difficult part of beginning Gateway was the endless fundraising needed to keep our doors open. With the support of our community members, we have been able to sustain operational costs for the past 10 years. We have been blessed in many ways and I can’t thank our donors, sponsors, volunteers and board members enough for their continuous support. Thank you for believing in Gateway!

Q2) Who were the unexpected supporters?

One of the most unexpected supporters of Gateway House was Friends producer Kevin Bright. He donates to many worthy causes and his choice to support our little home in Ballston Spa is pretty amazing!

Q3) Can you share a funny story from when you were searching for the location?

I really can’t think of a funny story, but I can tell you when we went to the county supervisor meeting to get approval for Gateway to lease the county-owned house for a $1 a year, I was a nervous wreck!  When the town board members all voted yes, I breathed a huge sigh of relief, and that was the turning point for Gateway becoming a reality. I am extremely grateful to the county supervisors who gave our little unknown not for profit organization a chance, when they had other well-established organizations interested in leasing the building. 

Q4) How about something you would like to share with friends or family members who are going through the end-of-life journey with a loved one?

I feel it is important to never project your own thoughts and feelings on what you would do if you were them. Let your loved one make his/her own choices on how he/she wants to handle his/her illness. People who are terminally ill need to do things on their own terms and we are there to support their decisions. 
 

Q5) What advice do you have for someone who is looking for ways to make a difference in their community? 

My advice is to find a charity that is near and dear to your heart and become a volunteer. Get involved!  If your heart leads you to people who are terminally ill, give Gateway a call and see how you can get involved. We have many volunteer opportunities!