I am currently in the social work department at Metro State.  I read a case study that detailed the story of one woman and her children's experience at a domestic violence shelter.  I was amazed at what they had experienced and the extreme measures they had to resort to in order to find what I take for granted - a safe place to be.

I have been on the Board of Directors of Gateway since November of 2004 and am thrilled to be a part of this vital organization that offers its services in such a compassionate and professional way.

The reason I chose to work in the Domestic Violence movement is because domestic violence has been a serious issue for many years while people look the other way thinking this is only a "family problem". Domestic Violence is a crime.

I chose to work in the domestic violence movement after I did a class project. For the project I interviewed a Gateway counselor about the services provided. I was so impressed with what Gateway did to help women and children, that when it came time for my internship I chose Gateway. I have been helping out ever since.

The reason I chose to work in the domestic violence movement is my desire to change people's perceptions about "why she stays" and educate the community around the facts - especially that DV is not limited by socio-economic boundaries.

I don't have a 'big' story that's behind my decision to help women and children who are victims of domestic violence.  I grew up in an intact family and felt loved and supported.  I hadn't experienced physical abuse in my adult life and until I took part in Gateway's volunteer orientation I never thought I lived in an emotionally abusive environment.

The reason I chose to work in the domestic violence movement is because, as a survivor of domestic violence, it's very important to me to give back what was given to me by Gateway. I believe I wouldn't even be here today if it weren't for Gateway.

The reason I chose to work in the domestic violence movement is because both my sister and her son (my nephew) were physically and verbally abused during her marriage, and the results have followed both of them for years after the marriage ended.

The reason I chose to work in the domestic violence movement is prior to being involved in the movement, I had many misconceptions about DV. Working with the Staff of Gateway has cleared up so many of those misconceptions and educated me to the cycle of violence and what can be done to help the victims.