Gateway Holds Appreciation Event

    Gateway Transition Center recently hosted a prestigious visitor to the City of Central.  Jim Kennedy is the former Director of the NASA Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida and currently travels the world speaking to organizations about his experiences and delivering inspirational messages. Gateway invited Kennedy and his wife to participate in its First Annual Volunteer Appreciation Event held at the State Archives building on Essen Lane.  Kennedy and his wife, Bernie, attended the event which recognized the hard work and generosity of many of the individuals and foundations who have supported the launch the transition center.
    Kennedy spoke to the crowd about the history of the NASA space program and how it demonstrates many inspirational moments in human history.  Kennedy inspired the audience with stories of sacrifice and respect for others.  He stated that Gateway’s mission of recognizing “the inherent dignity” of all of its participants is also an example of the principles which he finds so important.  Kennedy urged the Gateway supporters to continue to generously support the program and inspire its participants to fulfill their potential.  The speech and the event were an uplifting success thanks to the generosity and talents of Mr. Kennedy.  
    While in town, Kennedy took the opportunity to speak with middle school students at St. Alphonsus School. Mrs. Cindy Ryals, the school’s principal, was excited that her students were able to hear the fascinating stories told by the former NASA director.  Kennedy urged the students to “go the extra mile” and to act as an inspiration to others.  The students were allowed to ask questions and learned answers to interesting questions such as; why is a “blood moon” colored red?; and why did NASA stop painting the Shuttle’s external tanks?  Kennedy commented that he has spoken to middle schools across the country and found the St. Alphonsus students to be as well behaved and insightful he had ever met.  The ovation given by the students showed that they felt the same about him.
    Kennedy said that the highlight of his trip was a visit to Gateway Transition Center on Joor Road.  Kennedy met with the program’s participants and learned about their experiences at the center.  Kennedy had not previously been familiar with the effects of autism on young adults and was intrigued by the comprehensive nature of the program. Cassie Dinecola, Gateway’s Executive Director, explained the process of transitioning these young adults to an independent life.  Next, Gateway Ink employees demonstrated their screen printing skills to their visitor.  Kennedy learned how to print a shirt and how the vocational skills taught at the shop are used to promote the participants to a more permanent vocation.  As a reminder of his visit, the young adults signed a tshirt which they printed and presented it to Kennedy at the appreciation event. Gateway has truly found a talented and accomplished friend in Jim Kennedy.  
    For more information about Gateway Transition Center, please call Cassie Dinecola at 225-384-6338 or visit www.gtcbr.org