Gillis | for children and families since 1870

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Gillis Core Values

As representatives of Gillis and leaders in the community, these are the values that guide us in fulfilling our mission and pursuing our vision:

Family
We believe it is best for children to be raised in a safe, nurturing family environment where life-long attachments are formed.

Relationships
We believe trusting relationships are at the heart of our work. We will build them through respecting, listening, modeling and supporting each other and our clients.

Safety
We believe physical and emotional safety are essential. We will strive to create a safe environment by protecting the rights of others and by teaching our clients how to be healthy and self-sufficient.

Learning and growth
We believe in the value of life-long learning. Through professional development we seek to build the capability of our staff, who in turn can teach clients and their families the skills to live healthy and productive lives.

Diversity
We believe that by understanding and appreciating individual differences we can increase our effectiveness in serving our clients and community.

Integrity
We believe in treating our clients and each other with empathy, honesty, respect and accountability.

Strength-focused
We believe that through individual strengths and resiliency, everyone has the ability to reach their full potential.

Stories

Jack came to Gillis when the Children’s Division was unable to find a 4th foster home willing to take him. His mother was clean and working towards getting him back, but relapsed and has only seen him once since then. Jack has siblings but doesn’t see them much because their foster parent thinks Jack upsets them. Jack was a very hurt, lonely, frightened and angry boy with a history of family violence, substance abuse, loss, abandonment and constant rejection and disappointment.

Read full story

Gillis News

As part of their community service hours at Rockhurst High School, two young men volunteered at Gillis, working with the residential students. One day they looked around and realized that the common areas were not what they, as “typical” teenagers, would like to look at every day. So, they undertook a cottage renovation project. READ MORE

Gillis is part of Cornerstones of Care, a partnership of agencies providing therapeutic treatment services for children and families.