Pathways to Independence

Our Mission - Pathways to Independence supports the development of skills that positively impact the lives of individuals with disabilities who seek greater independence and social success.

About Pathways to Independence

Pathways to Independence is uniquely focused on developing social, interpersonal, and other soft skills in individuals with complex cognitive disabilities to help them overcome personal and professional challenges. Behind everything we do, every interaction, we are building skills that open up new possibilities and pave the way to independence. Socializing, and more so, independence, comes with risk, and we give participants the courage and confidence to take those risks in a safe environment. We do this through three core programs:

Young Adult Program serving ages 16 to 20

The Young Adult Program was created in 2020 after feedback from participants and their family members that it would be helpful to introduce Pathways to youth before they become
"lost" after high school ends. The idea was to start the program at age 16 to help bridge from school-to-school or school-to-work. And it works!

Adult Program serving ages 21+

Pathways' Adult Programs offer extensive opportunities for participants to find the right fit for their life. Finding where they best belong and feel most comfortable, while still stretching
their comfort zone to learn and grow. The Adult Program offers Social Growth, Social Focus, and Social College, each providing a specialized approach to helping our participants in their journey to independence.

Growth And Potential (GAP) serving ages 16+

This program provides one-on-one support to participants who are looking to strengthen their skills or expand their individual engagement in community activities. They may request Individualized Coaching focused on a participant's desire to learn more about a topic, such as budgeting, time management, or coping with anxiety. In the Community Connections program, we assist participants who are interested in joining an existing community group, such as a book club, bible study, bicycling club, or volunteer activity.

Pathways has served 800+ individuals since its founding in 1987, and nearly 200 just this past year alone. For more than 35 years, we have reached out to say, "You Belong Here!" And
our participants have responded with immense gratitude that has given us promise, purpose, and the fortitude to continue our work to serve others. Isn't that what we all want, a place to belong with friends and in the community?