Verna Gates’ career began as one of the original 50 employees of CNN who worked to launch the network. For 15 years, she reported for the world’s largest news organization, Reuters International News Service reaching 1 billion readers and 417,000 media outlets around the world. She also reported for TIME Magazine, The Guardian, which is the world’s largest newspaper, and Troy Public Radio. She has won numerous local, national and international awards for her reporting. 

In 2006, after covering the underage sex trade, Gates founded Fresh Air Family as a way to strengthen our families and children.  The non-profit is dedicated to outdoor education and the development of critical thinking. Its premier program is award-winning science camp, Gross Out Camp, which served more than 2,000 children in 108 day camps in 36 locations in 2025. FAF also served 1,600 families through their weekend events and comprehensive newsletter promoting outdoor events. On February 4, 2023, she was received the Eagle Award from Alabama State Parks for her camps and events in State Parks, and her promotion of parks events. She was named an Alabama Champion by ABC News.