Through the Ann Hill Life Skills Program, Gatehouse residents prepare for adult life and future success by developing personal goals and learning self-care skills necessary to live independently. They learn how to cook, do their own laundry, manage a household budget, develop job skills, search for employment and a place to live, develop social skills, take care of their health, further their education and enjoy recreational activities in a supportive setting away from home.

The Gatehouse Program is a premiere model unique to this region and the United States. Both the program and its residence were established by the Spina Bifida Association of Western PA in 1991 to promote full community participation, including employment, education and service opportunities, for young adults with spina bifida and other disabilities.

The SBAWP collaborates with other greater Pittsburgh area agencies to provide personal care services through the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services for young adults participating in the Gatehouse Program.