Life-Gate is celebrating a remarkable and well deserved 25th birthday to acknowledge its years of service to the community. It was founded in 1992 as a Christian Public Benevolent Institution by the Rev Angel Roldán and his wife, Pastor Ulli Rothstein de Roldán. From the beginning their vision was to powerfully influence troubled individuals to reach their potential.

Life-Gate’s mantra is that “life-controlling problems, addictions and emotional disorders can be overcome through meeting the needs of the whole person”. “Our heart and passion is to see people fully restored and to equip others to do the same,” said Angel.

To get in touch with a greater number of vulnerable people across the state, the group established several initiatives complete with volunteers trained by Life-Gate, including the Street Outreach Team and Prison Team.  It also carried out nursing home visits, helped Aboriginal youth and families in the Lake Tyre area; offered counselling; set up a rehabilitation centre and an op-shop; provided court assistance; conducted inductions to rehabilitation centres; operated a drop-in-centre and coffee shop; established sexual abuse therapy groups and hosted seminars on important topics in Victoria and interstate.

Life-Gate is run solely by volunteers and depends on donations with the support of individuals, business, philanthropic trusts, and Frankston Council.  The late Dame Elisabeth Murdoch was one of its main sponsors and even supported Life-Gate financially for more than 20 years. “We have faith, and we rely on donations – it’s how we bought Life-Gate,” Angel said.

Over the 25 years, Life-Gate has been assisted by some 750 unpaid volunteers. Angel and Ulli are extremely grateful to those who have dedicated their time and effort over the years to assist them in their goal to help the needy in our community.  “Our vision is to expand our services, especially to obtain a property in the surroundings of Frankston to help people in need of restoration on a full-time basis.”

Marking the anniversary will be politicians, council members, supporters, members and of course friends and family. Guests will be taken back in time as they learn the history of the charity through videos and photographs.   The celebrations will be held at 1A Olsen St on Saturday, October 28, from 5.30pm.  “It will be held at our building in the heart of Frankston,” Angel said.  “It’s really a wonderful blessing to be located where we are.”

The couple, who this year were awarded Frankston’s Citizens of the Year, remain down to earth despite their amazing achievements.  “We thank God for the wonderful experience.  It’s been tough at times, but exciting and rewarding all the same.”

So be an angel and join Life-Gate’s celebrations - and perhaps consider making a donation so it can continue its mission.