There is new leadership at the helm for Berrien County’s Gateway Services. She is Tamera (Tami) Gould, and she is the Interim Executive Director for the non-profit agency headquartered along Empire Avenue in Benton Harbor.
Gateway Services, a local non-profit agency operating since 1972 made the announcement today, noting that Tami has been an integral part of the leadership team at Gateway for the past twelve years. Additionally, with more than 20 years of experience in human services, Gould is prepared and excited to take on her new role as Interim Executive Director.
Tami is a life-long resident of Berrien County, who holds a degree in business and is a graduate of the MARO Leadership Academy. One of her first jobs was in a group home where she provided direct services to individuals with disabilities and life-impacting barriers.
Tami held a supervisory position with Hope Network when they operated residential and other support services in the Niles area, and when Hope Network ended services in Berrien County in 2008, Tami began her career with Gateway as a Program Manager. Since 2010 she has held the Director of Services position. Her advancement to Interim Executive Director can be seen as a natural progression for Tami who has spent her career serving others.
Gateway is headquartered in Benton Harbor, with a satellite office in Niles, and employs over 60 staff members. The mission of Gateway is “Inclusion and independence for everyone, every day, everywhere.”
Annually over 200 residents of Berrien County receive individualized services through the variety of programs available through Gateway. Services are provided ranging from in-home Respite care to children with Autism all the way to pre-employment – job development – and job coaching supports to participants hired and employed at local businesses. Community Living Support services are also provided to assist individuals with access in their local communities while promoting their independence and inclusion.
The current staff at Gateway and the organization’s Board of Directors are all in agreement that Tami Gould is the best choice for the future of Gateway, saying, “She is capable and ready to take on the role of Interim Executive Director with her dedication and vision.”
