Movement History

Since 1906, Citygate Network has supported ministries with resources, advocacy, and best practices to help them serve those facing homelessness, addiction, and other life-controlling challenges.

A legacy of gospel-powered transformation

Citygate Network’s journey is a testament to over a century of transformation, collaboration, and unwavering dedication to addressing homelessness and its root causes. From its humble beginnings in the early 1900s, we have been at the forefront of equipping ministries with the resources, advocacy, and best practices needed to fulfill their calling with excellence and compassion.

By bringing together leaders from across North America and beyond, Citygate Network has fostered a community where ministries can thrive, empowered by strategic support and a shared vision for gospel-powered life transformation. Today, as we continue to address the growing needs of those experiencing homelessness and brokenness, we are proud to stand as a trusted partner for ministries, offering connection, best practices, learning experiences, and networking opportunities that strengthen the effectiveness of our collective efforts.

We are more committed than ever to our mission of advancing Kingdom impact and creating sustainable solutions for the most vulnerable in our communities. Together, we will continue to drive real change and create pathways for individuals to experience lasting life transformation.

This timeline reflects the rich history and pivotal moments that have shaped our growth, and our ongoing commitment to empowering ministries to navigate challenges with confidence and effectiveness.

1826 – Glasgow City Mission (First Rescue Mission)

David Nasmith founded the world’s first rescue mission, Glasgow City Mission, in Scotland as an interdenominational lay movement to address the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the poor.
The mission was groundbreaking, offering evening literacy classes and “Chimney Sweep Schools” for children, as well as establishing creative partnerships with local churches and civic organizations to meet the city’s social needs.

1830s–1870s – Early Development of Rescue Missions

1872 – Jerry McAuley Founding the First North American Rescue Mission

Jerry McAuley, after a transformative personal experience, founded the first rescue mission in North America at 316 Water Street, New York, known as Helping Hand for Men (now Bowery Mission).
McAuley’s impactful ministry led to the establishment of numerous other rescue missions across the U.S., significantly shaping the development and growth of rescue missions throughout North America.

1906 – National Federation of Gospel Missions (NFGM)

1913 – International Union of Gospel Missions (IUGM)

1919 – Clemme Ellis White Joins IUGM

1940s–1950s – Strengthening Rescue Ministry

1957–1969 – Executive Secretaries

From 1957 to 1969, Reverend Ernest Tippett served as IUGM’s first executive secretary, helping to stabilize and grow the organization. His leadership laid the groundwork for the future expansion and increased coordination of rescue missions across North America.
During this period, the organization moved its headquarters several times to accommodate its growth, eventually settling in Kansas City by 1966. This move provided a more central location, enabling better service to missions nationwide and facilitating further collaboration with key partners in the rescue mission community.

1970–1989 – Growing Influence and Organizational Restructure

From 1970 to 1989, Reverend Emile Leger and William L. Wooley served as executive secretaries, guiding the organization through a period of growth and transition. Their leadership helped strengthen the association’s influence and expand its national reach, solidifying its role in supporting rescue missions.
In 1985, the release of the “New Perspective” report prompted significant organizational changes, including the creation of new membership tracks and expanded services. These changes enhanced the association’s ability to support a broader range of ministries, offering targeted resources and training in areas such as addiction recovery, youth ministry, and Christian thrift stores.

1989–2000 – Association of Gospel Rescue Missions (AGRM)

In 2000, AGRM was formally established, continuing its mission to expand and support rescue missions across the U.S., helping ministries strengthen their services and outreach efforts.
AGRM introduced Rescue College (now City Vision University), a pioneering program aimed at training future leaders in rescue missions and related fields. By 2006, Rescue College had earned accreditation, becoming a fully recognized degree-granting institution.

2007– New Leadership and Growth

In 2007, John Ashmen became President/CEO, leading the organization through a period of significant growth by expanding membership benefits and providing ministries with enhanced resources, training, and networking opportunities.
Under his leadership, Citygate Network forged new collaborations with key government agencies and Christian ministries, broadening the organization's reach and advocacy for gospel-powered life transformation.

2018 – Rebranding and Organizational Focus Shift

AGRM began doing business as Citygate Network, emphasizing gospel-powered life transformation and desiring to "widen the gate" for other life transformation ministries to join.
The rebranding process brought a renewed focus on collaboration, broadening the organization’s reach to include ministries serving a wider range of organizations, such as outreach centers, food banks, and churches, as well as vulnerable populations affected by domestic violence, human trafficking, addiction, and mental health.
The organization purchased an office building, the current headquarters.

2023 – Tom De Vries Becomes Citygate Network’s New President/CEO

Movement History

A legacy of gospel-powered transformation

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Movement History

A legacy of gospel-powered transformation

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