Patrick Finley began his journey with Gateway Hudson Valley in 1998 after graduating from Kingston High School and proudly serving as a volunteer firefighter. He initially participated in Gateway’s Sheltered Work Center, where he performed a variety of assembly tasks. When the Work Center closed, Pat decided to challenge himself further by pursuing competitive, integrated employment in the maintenance and janitorial fields.
In 2018, Pat enrolled in ACCES-VR Supported Employment Services and selected Gateway Hudson Valley as his service provider. At the time, he faced several significant barriers, including heightened anxiety, limited transportation, no prior competitive work experience, low work tolerance, and financial instability. With the support of his Employment Specialist, Pat learned to navigate local bus routes, strengthened his interview skills, and became more physically active. As his confidence grew, he began interviewing for positions.
During his job search, Pat noticed an opening for a janitorial position within Gateway’s Custom Cleaning Department and applied. He excelled during the interview process and was hired shortly afterward. Although initially nervous, Pat quickly learned the responsibilities of the role and consistently exceeded expectations. He became a valued member of the team, taking tremendous pride and ownership in his work. Before long, Pat earned a reputation as Gateway’s in-house cleaning specialist and expressed immense pride in being a contributing member of the workforce and community.

Today, eight years later, Pat continues to thrive in Gateway’s Custom Cleaning Department and has achieved remarkable personal and professional success. Known as the “Golden Eagle” of the department, Pat became a frontline hero during the COVID-19 pandemic, helping ensure Gateway remained clean and safe for staff and participants. He also overcame his anxiety about working outside the building and now proudly serves on external cleaning contracts, including the NYC DEP (Department of Environmental Protection) cleaning contract, which he holds in the highest regard.

Pat’s growth and leadership led to his promotion into a specialized training role, where he teaches job skills and cleaning techniques to interns and new hires. Many of the individuals Pat has trained have gone on to become successful staff members themselves. In recognition of his dedication, exceptional work ethic, and continued growth, Pat has been nominated for NYSID’s (New York State Industries for the Disabled) prestigious Joslin Award, which honors individuals with disabilities who demonstrate outstanding job performance, personal growth, and vocational achievement.

Beyond the workplace, Pat has made tremendous strides in his personal life as well. Through his employment income and strong support network, he has achieved financial stability and increased financial literacy. Pat successfully moved out of his family home and now lives independently with a close friend while continuing to work toward the goal of securing his own apartment in the Kingston area.

Pat has also prioritized his personal wellness and recovery journey. He enrolled in Gateway’s PROS (Personalized Recovery Oriented Services) programming to address and recover from past stressors and trauma. He also participates in Gateway’s Care Coordination services to support his goals of becoming healthier, happier, and more independent.
Pat’s journey is a powerful example of perseverance, personal growth, and the impact of meaningful employment opportunities. Gateway is proud to celebrate all that he has accomplished.

Keep soaring, Golden Eagle!