Gateway accepts and utilizes donations to further our programs and services. Sponsors can support projects, events and activities. Donations of materials, equipment, office supplies, etc. are greatly appreciated. Call Gateway at (765)649-1900 to talk to an administrator for more information.
Sponsors & Donating
Joining the Board of Directors
Gateway is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. The Board of Directors serves as vision keepers for Gateway through its role as the governing body legally responsible for managing the affairs of the organization.
Board members are elected to a three (3) year term. Service on Gateway’s Board of Directors is without compensation.
This is an extraordinary opportunity for an individual who is passionate about Gateway’s mission and who has a track record of nonprofit board experiences and community leadership. Board members are expected to keep the public trust by fulfilling the requirements of board membership, which include participating in the formulation of policies governing administrative, fiscal and program operations; collaborating with other Board members in planning and assessing management and program services; and by fulfilling the specific duties required of Board members.
Volunteering
Volunteers can share their time and talents by helping in the classrooms, assisting in the office, working on special projects, fundraising, and planning special event and activities. Any volunteers that are in the building eight (8) hours or more a month must complete and pass all required background checks. For more information about volunteering contact Gateway at (765)649-1900.
Want to volunteer? We’ll hook you up!
Meet our Board of Directors
Candy Short - President
I am Candy Short, a retired educator and current community advocate. I became involved with this organization when my nephew was diagnosed with cerebral palsy after his birth in 1976. My brother, his father, was a member of the board of United Cerebral Palsy (now called Gateway) at the time. I joined that board to help the organization grow. I admired the director, Pat Quinn, and so appreciated her dedication to children with cerebral palsy. Being on the board gave me a connection to my nephew. Fast forward, I moved away from the area for twenty years, returning to Anderson in 2017, where I joined Gateway’s board again. I was amazed at the award-winning work it was doing and the talent of the director and staff. I appreciate how Gateway serves all children in its preschool and provides after-school care to school-age children. I’m proud of the board’s commitment to providing a good environment and benefits for its staff.
Don Deena Johnson - Past President
I am Don Deena Johnson, retired missionary teacher and pastor. I was first introduced to Gateway when I came to First United Methodist Church as children’s pastor and then as associate pastor, back in 2014. A year or so later, I joined the Board as liaison between the Gateway and the church. I have been “on board” ever since. In scripture, it is not difficult to see that the culture of the times relegated children to the “least of these” category. They were totally dependent upon the whims of their fathers. Times have changed, no doubt, but children remain a very vulnerable population and the opportunity to receive the loving and supportive care of an organization such as Gateway, is life-giving the children who are enrolled. At Gateway, children are cherished, whatever their gifts and challenges. At Gateway, children are heard and respected and are given an opportunity to learn and contribute. At Gateway, children find a place to belong when they are not at home. This brings me joy and hope for the future of our kids.
Ruthie Smith - Member
I am Ruthie Smith, a life-long Anderson resident and a 45 year employee at Community Hospital Anderson. I am a Nurse, Community Health Worker, Educator, Bereavement Coordinator and my most important job is a Mother. As a working mother of my son Ben, one of my greatest concerns was quality childcare and Pre-K. I was fortunate to be able to secure that for him. I am thankful to be a member of the Gateway Association Board of Directors. I am most thankful for a devoted Director and Staff here at Gateway. They are truly making a difference in the lives of these children and their families here in our community. I see the dedication and commitment that is displayed by these childcare professionals. But most importantly, I see the love, hope and encouragement that each and every child receives here at Gateway.
Melanie Dunkin - Member
I am Melanie Dunkin. I do accounts payable for my family’s construction company. My brother attended Gateway because of his cerebral palsy. After his passing, when I was a teenager, I spent a few summers volunteering at Gateway. I care about Gateway because I have seen the difference it has made in the lives of so many children, including my brother. As someone whose brother faced physical disabilities and who has a vision impairment herself, I firmly believe that all children of all abilities deserve quality care and education.
Sharon McNabney - Member
I am Sharon McNabney a long time member of First United Methodist Church and have known of Gateway for many years. I learned so much from Sara when she was a guest at one of our services a while ago and talked about Gateway and all the wonderful things that they do for our children and families in Madison County. That is what sparked my interest in becoming a board member. I taught in the Muncie Community Schools many years ago before leaving to be at home with our three sons which has been my most important profession. I do understand how important it is for parents to have a place to bring their children that we are all proud of and the parents can feel confident that their children are cared for with respect and kindness.