Pathways Blog
Why I Give to Pathways
When I joined the advisory board 10 years ago, I began to contribute financially to the program. As I got to know the Pathways program and students better, I realized that certain needs arise as it grows, like the need for a new van, supplies, sensory items for students who need it, a sensory room, and so…
Virtual Classes Have Been Life-Giving for Bailey During the Pandemic
Bailey is currently a senior in high school, and when the pandemic started, in order to keep her safe, her mom decided that it would be best for her to do her senior year online until things get better. Around April of 2020, her mom saw a Facebook Ad about Pathways and decided to enroll…
Life with an older brother with Down Syndrome
I grew up listening to all types of music because of my brother Clark who loves music. He is the reason why I do musical theater and where I got my love for music from. I would say a big part of who I am is because of Clark. He is a huge part of…
The Importance of Virtual Classes for Adults with I/DD
For 11 years, Pathways has been a place for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) to belong and thrive together, in-person! But we’ve had to adapt our program to a virtual setting since March of this year to protect our more vulnerable students from the Coronavirus. Our students can learn and connect with others…
My Experience as a Volunteer at Pathways
As I reflect on my experience at Pathways, I am reminded of the Prayer of St. Francis: “Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:where there is hatred, let me sow love;where there is injury, pardon;where there is doubt, faith;where there is despair, hope;where there is darkness, light;where there is sadness, joy. O divine Master,…
Lifelong learners
At some point in your life, you have probably been stereotyped. If you’re tall, people ask, “did you play basketball?” If you wore glasses as a kid, you were a bookworm. But what if these stereotypes were overwhelmingly negative and continuous throughout your life? What if they were hurtful? What if they didn’t stop? A…
11 years and not slowing down
After high school there are limited opportunities for these adults. Working isn’t always an option and, for many, their days are spent alone at home. Because of their disabilities many can’t drive to go to the movies, meet up with friends for a gym workout, or just do what adults typically do. It can be…
Volunteering During a Pandemic
With social distancing as a huge staple in our new temporary norm, it can be hard to find meaningful ways to spend your time. There are fewer opportunities to get outside and interact with your community. While Pathways is still virtual students, aren’t going out in the community to volunteer, to go on field trips,…
Meet some of our athletes
Terah Years active: 27 Sports: Track and Field; Swimming; Bowling Terah began competing in Special Olympics when she was 9-years-old. She started competing in Track and Field, especially enjoying the softball throw. She soon added bowling and won many gold medals during the years that she competed. To help loosen up the back muscles she…
Online classes keep students connected
At Pathways we create all of our own curriculum and adapt lessons to fit the needs of our students. We aren’t restricted by state guidelines of what we can and cannot teach and have the freedom to explore any subject that interests our students. This freedom also allows us to share the word of God…