Gateway to Discovery helps women who are recovering from struggles such as addiction and homelessness. The organization helps women with personal necessities and food, goal setting, family reunification, job readiness, financial stability, and many other needs they may be facing.

There are four phases throughout a resident’s two-year stay.

Phase one is “Welcome to the Circle,” then phase two is “Consider the Hope,” phase three is “Find Your Way Home,” and the final phase is “Sisters for Life.”

According to board member Jessica Moffitt, there are currently women in all four stages of the program.

-Messenger file photo by Britt Kudla
Lorri Miller, left, and Susan Olson, of Fort Dodge, serve marshmallows during the eighth annual “It’s a Chocolate Thing” event at the Webster County Fairgrounds in 2021.

In 2021, Gateway to Discovery’s social enterprise, Hope Sweet Hope Studios, was able to participate in the local farmer’s market and plans to continue participation in 2022. Hope Sweet Hope Studios gives residents an opportunity to learn new skills and create products such as cloth masks, key chains and pillow covers.

Gateway to Discovery had a successful year when it came to fundraising. The annual fundraiser, “It’s a Chocolate Thing,” raised more than ever, bringing in more than $27,000.

“It’s a Chocolate Thing” is a fundraising event where participants can pay $20 to enjoy a variety of sweet treats and hot chocolate, bid on silent auction items and purchase raffle tickets for prizes.

The fundraising goal in 2021 was $25,000. Silent auction items included gift certificates to local businesses such as restaurants, grocery stores, clothing stores, and auto repair shops, a car care kit, a spa package, quilts and furniture.

In addition to a successful fundraiser, Moffitt said, “Gateway was blessed with $15,000 in matching one-on-one donations this year and are happy to report we raised all $15,000 to match.”

-Messenger file photo by Britt Kudla
Taylor Miller, of Fort Dodge, selects a treat at the eighth annual “It’s a Chocolate Thing” event at the Webster County Fairgrounds last year.

Moffitt said they are excited to see what 2022 brings.

“In 2022 Gateway is looking forward to graduating two more women and continuing to serve the area by bringing more women into our program,” she said. “We are very excited for another successful year.”