THIS IS WHAT YOUR GIVING LOOKS LIKE IN REAL LIFE.
A client arrived to session visibly anxious. When asked what they needed, they said simply: “I just need to see my horse.”
What unfolded in that arena that day changed everything. Through the honest, unfiltered response of their equine partner, this client discovered something they had never been given permission to feel before.
“I’m supposed to pretend everything is OK when it is not,” they shared through tears.
By the end of the session, standing side by side with their horse in a moment of genuine connection, they said something that has stayed with our team ever since:
“I am not sure I have ever been real in my friendships because I was worried they couldn’t handle me. This is the most amazing experience I have ever had. I feel free to be me.”
That session happened because someone gave.
A client came to Gateway shortly after a string of devastating losses. He was quiet, reserved, and deeply uncomfortable with his own emotions. He didn’t want therapy — but he agreed to come because of the horses.
He chose Gandy as his relationship horse. Over the following weeks, something began to shift. And one day, after a hard session where the client stomped out in frustration, he came back the following week and said something remarkable:
“I’m ready to talk about my feelings.”
The client had learned — through Gandy, through the safety of our barn, through the steady presence of our clinical team — that every feeling has a place. That he didn’t have to carry it alone anymore.
Your gift helped build that space for our client. It can do the same for the next child who walks through our gate.
What your giving makes possible.
THE FAMILIES WHO NEED US MOST OFTEN CAN'T AFFORD US. YOUR GIFT CLOSES THAT GAP.
Imagine this: your child is in crisis. You finally find the right help — specialized, trauma-informed, relationship-based care that actually works. And then you find out you can’t afford it.
That’s the reality facing many of the families we serve. Gateway Family Services works with the most vulnerable populations in Central Illinois — families who are underinsured, underserved, and often overlooked. Many of our clients are Medicaid recipients, but Medicaid reimbursement rates don’t come close to covering the actual cost of the care we provide.
Your generosity bridges that gap. Every dollar you give ensures a child — or an adult learning for the first time that it’s okay to be real — gets the care they need without a financial crisis layered on top of a mental health crisis.
VOLUNTEER
Give your time instead of — or in addition to — your treasure. We have volunteer opportunities at the barn and for special events.
YOUR TRUST MATTERS TO US
Gateway Family Services of Illinois is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit (EIN: 82-5497238) and a proud United Way partner agency. All gifts are tax-deductible and charitable gift letters are sent at the beginning of each calendar year.
We are committed to transparency — you can view our 2024 Impact Report to see exactly how your donations are put to work. We are working hard to share our 2025 report with you soon!
BE PART OF SOMEONE'S STORY
The next client who walks through our gate is already on their way. They’re carrying something heavy, and they need someone in their corner. Your gift today is what makes that possible.
