Last month, The GateHouse once again brought the community together for its Second Annual Cultural Event at Long’s Park. What began as a hopeful experiment last summer has quickly become a cherished tradition, celebrating culture, food, and fellowship while creating meaningful connections for clients on their recovery journeys.
This year’s event, held under Pavilion One, was bigger, busier, and even more vibrant than its debut. With expanded food offerings, live music, interactive activities, and spontaneous dancing, it provided a joyful setting where clients, families, staff, and community members could come together.
A Stronger Start Than Year One
Organizers noticed immediately how different this year felt from the start.
“Last year, people trickled in a few hours after we opened,” said Mariah Milani, Intake Supervisor and co-facilitator of the Community Engagement Committee. “This year, people were swarming the tables before we were even finished setting up. We got hit right away with a big crowd, and it stayed busy for hours.”
That immediate response was partly the result of more intentional planning and promotion.
“We weren’t sure what to expect when we did this last year,” said Linda Colon, Billing Supervisor and Mariah’s fellow co-facilitator at The GateHouse. “This year we advertised earlier and worked harder to spread the word. The turnout showed it.”
Both Linda and Mariah said that lessons from year one helped shape year two. By focusing on activities that drew in both clients and community members, the day flowed more smoothly while keeping the energy high.
Cultural Tables and Culinary Adventures
Food once again played a central role. Each table showcased a culture through local restaurant dishes, decorations, and educational elements. Attendees could sample tamales, Puerto Rican dishes, Vietnamese cuisine, Middle Eastern favorites, and much more—all while learning about the traditions behind them.
For Mariah, the shift in cuisine was a big improvement.
“Last year we did an Italian table, but the food was a little too heavy and hot for the middle of summer,” she said. “This year we switched to Vietnamese food, and it was a huge hit. I had one guest who came back three times just to ask about the dishes because she’d never tried Vietnamese food before.”
Linda pointed out that the addition of Middle Eastern food gave the event even greater variety.
“That was new this year, and it added to the mix in a big way,” she said. “People were excited to try something they hadn’t experienced before.”
One of the most memorable contributions came from Norbu, a Nepalese restaurant that donated most of its offerings. “It was incredible generosity,” Mariah said. “We put their business cards and menus on the table so people could connect with them afterward.”
While most of the food was purchased with support from The GateHouse, organizers hope the relationships built this year will lead to more food donations in the future.
“It’s really a win-win,” Mariah said. “The restaurants get exposure, and our community gets to try something new.”
Face Painting, Dancing, and Live Music
Beyond food, this year’s event featured more activities to engage clients and families. Administrative Assistant Kier Keiser volunteered to provide face painting, a role she had never tried before but quickly embraced.
“It was my first time doing it, and I ended up working harder there than I do in the office most days,” she said with a laugh. “Seriously, though, it was worth it to see the smiles on the kids’ faces. It was a big success.”
Music added another layer of energy. Clinical Supervisor Tim Gageby set up under a tent and played guitar and sang throughout the afternoon, providing a relaxed soundtrack.
“He wanted to keep it low-key, and it really worked,” Mariah said.
Dance also found its place in the celebration. International folk dancers gave a demonstration and invited attendees to join in. Later, when familiar dance songs like the “Cha Cha Slide” came on, the pavilion filled with people of all ages dancing together.
“That spontaneous dancing is one of my favorite memories,” Linda said. “It was so natural—clients, staff, families, all joining in. For a moment, everyone just let go and enjoyed being together.”
Along with some of the yard games like cornhole that were brought back from last year, the addition of a dominoes table this year was a big hit that added to the festivities and provided a new form of friendly competition to the afternoon.
Creativity and Connection
The popular flag-decorating contest returned, this time evolving into two competitions.
“Last year we had some issues with how the flags were displayed,” Mariah said. “This year, clients took more creative liberties and made artwork inspired by cultures, in addition to various countries’ flags that were brought out again this year. So, we decided to hold two separate contests with gift card prizes.”
For Adelina “Nina” White, HR Generalist and first-time participant, the event’s value went beyond the activities.
“It wasn’t about raising money—it was about creating a free community event where clients could enjoy themselves and people could see The GateHouse in action,” she said.
Recovery in a Different Light
While the cultural celebration was open to the public, its impact on clients was especially meaningful. Many in early recovery have limited opportunities for healthy social events, and this gathering provided a safe space to relax and connect.
“It’s important for our clients to see they can have fun without substances,” Linda said. “They get to dance, laugh, and share food with their peers and families in a supportive environment. That’s huge for recovery.”
The event also allowed staff and clients to connect on a personal level.
“At work, we’re often serious and focused,” Linda said. “But here, we get to interact differently—with clients, with alumni, with each other. Meeting their families and being able to just hang out builds bonds you can’t always create in a structured setting.”
Kier said she was struck by how far the event’s reach extended.
“We had people from other recovery houses and treatment centers show up, even from outside the county,” she said. “It shows how much people are looking for events like this.”
Looking Ahead
Though still only in its second year, the event has already established itself as a signature tradition for The GateHouse. Organizers are already discussing ways to enhance it next year, from karaoke and line dancing to bringing in additional cultural performers.
“We’ll probably start planning again in early 2026,” Mariah said. “It takes a lot of coordination, especially with the food tables, but each year we’re going to keep getting better at it. Our goal is to keep making it more engaging and inclusive.”
For Linda, the biggest reward is simple: “It’s about showing our clients there’s more to recovery than just hard work. There’s joy, there’s laughter, and there’s community.”
A Tradition in the Making
The GateHouse’s cultural event is more than a summer gathering. It is becoming a tradition that celebrates culture, nurtures recovery, and strengthens the bonds of community.
“This isn’t going away,” Mariah said. “Each year we’ll keep building on it. It’s about food, culture, music, and fun—but at the heart of it, it’s about connection. And that’s something we all need.”
If you or someone you know is seeking a recovery program that values holistic wellness and community connection, The GateHouse is here to help. Our outpatient, transitional living, and residential extended care programs are designed to support individuals at every stage of recovery. Reach out to us today!
