A Message from our Website & Database Coordinator – September 2025

Posted on by Carvis Russell
The image features a gradient orange background with a rounded square photo of a person wearing a black shirt and gold chain on the left side. Below the photo, the text reads: 'Carvis Russell Website & Database Coordinator.' To the right, there is a circular compass logo above the words 'TENNESSEE DISABILITY PATHFINDER' in white uppercase letters. Below this, bold navy blue text states: "A MESSAGE FROM WEBSITE & DATA MANAGEMENT"

Dear Friends, Getting where you need to go is an important part of daily life. Transportation is something we all rely on. However, for people with disabilities, getting around can sometimes be harder. At Tennessee Disability Pathfinder, we want to help make things easier. This month’s newsletter, On the Move: Navigating Transportation with Disabilities, is all… Read more A Message from our Website & Database Coordinator – September 2025

Finding Your Way with Tennessee’s Transportation Options

Posted on by April Meredith
A close-up view from the driver's seat inside a car, showing a smartphone mounted on the dashboard. The phone displays a GPS navigation app with a map and route highlighted in purple and yellow, directing the driver along Interstate 40 as shown by a red, white and blue highway symbol to "Ripley Tennessee," that is shown at the bottom of the phone screen in a dark rectuangular box. The screen shows directions, distance remaining (1.9 mi), estimated time (3 minutes), and current speed (43 m/h). The steering wheel is partially visible on the left, and blurred traffic lights and cars can be seen through the windshield in the background.

Transportation is more than just getting from Point A to Point B. It’s a key part of living a full, connected life. Whether it’s heading to a medical appointment, visiting friends, or pursuing a job opportunity, reliable transportation is essential for thriving in Tennessee. However, navigating the maze of transit options can be overwhelming, especially… Read more Finding Your Way with Tennessee’s Transportation Options

Using AI Tools to Help Access Transportation in Tennessee

Posted on by Sheena Adams-Avery, CDT, CDP
The image shows a group of people boarding and exiting two city buses at a bus stop in an urban area. One bus has passengers stepping off, while another bus has a person in a wheelchair using the ramp to board. In the background, there is a large domed building with columns and an obelisk monument, suggesting a notable or historic location. The scene is bright and lively, with diverse individuals interacting around public transportation. Brief description: This image depicts a public transportation scene where people of different backgrounds and abilities are using city buses near prominent architectural landmarks. It highlights community interaction, features like wheelchair ramps, and the importance of public transit in connecting people within urban environments. This image was created by AI.

Transportation in Tennessee is entering a new chapter. Instead of spending hours on phone calls or digging through websites, people can now turn to tools powered by Artificial Intelligence (AI) to find the rides they need in minutes. From healthcare visits to work shifts to community events, AI is reshaping how Tennesseans connect to the… Read more Using AI Tools to Help Access Transportation in Tennessee

Navigating Transportation Through the IEP and Beyond

Posted on by Mimi Sanders
chool buses parked side by side in a row, with visible black numbers '462' and '356' on their bumpers. The buses have large round mirrors extending from the hoods and windshields, and the image is brightly lit, emphasizing the vibrant yellow color.

Take a moment to think about your daily routine and how much of it involves transportation. Whether it’s driving to work, taking children to school, or heading to the grocery store, transportation plays a vital role in nearly every aspect of life. In fact, the average person spends about 12,480 minutes, or roughly 208 hours,… Read more Navigating Transportation Through the IEP and Beyond

Spotlight – September 2025

Posted on by Sheena Adams-Avery, CDT, CDP

Navigating the 2025 Transportation Planning Grant The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) Office of Community Transportation has opened applications for the 2025 Transportation Planning Grant (TPG), a funding opportunity aimed at helping Tennessee cities and counties improve their transportation systems. This grant focuses on supporting the development of plans that enhance mobility, traffic flow, safety,… Read more Spotlight – September 2025

ConnectAbility – September 2025

Posted on by Pathfinder
colorful cartoon graphic image with different people of different abilities, colors, etc. surrounding a globe with text "ConnectAbility." Quote bubbles around the image near the people figures say "Support, Access, Empower, Language, Educate, Engage." On the top left of the image in a blue circle is the disability symbol. On the top right of the image is Pathfinder's logo. And text on the top center of the image says, "RESOURCES."

Navigating resources can be difficult, but differences in abilities, culture, and language can make it even more challenging. By bridging these differences, we aim to emphasize the connection to the necessary resources and support. We’re highlighting programs and sharing resources that address these challenges, fostering greater opportunities to utilize disability resources and creating stronger connections… Read more ConnectAbility – September 2025

EmployAbility – September 2025

Posted on by Pathfinder
Pathfinder logo on the bottom left. An image of a cubicle is towards the left. "Employability" is written towards the right.

Hey job seekers! Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey to a more inclusive and understanding workplace? Whether you’re looking for your dream job or the perfect volunteer opportunity, we’re sharing employment and volunteer opportunities and resources in the Tennessee disability community. Join us in embracing a future where every person has the… Read more EmployAbility – September 2025

Upcoming Events – September 2025

Posted on by Pathfinder

Find what’s happening in your area by visiting our Community Calendar and begin your journey with events that enhance your life experiences.  Also, follow us on social media to stay updated with events in the disability community. Entertainment Events 🎭 Experience Sensory-Friendly Performances at Studio Tenn! Join Studio Tenn for a season of unforgettable theater… Read more Upcoming Events – September 2025

Resource Corner – September 2025

Posted on by Pathfinder
Green and centered white color block background image with light green sunburst on the right side of the image. Text in the white color block "Resource Corner." On the top left of the image is a circular framed photo of Pathfinder's website on a laptop screen. To the bottom right of the image is Pathfinder's branded graphic in a white circular frame. On the bottom right of image on a small white geometical shaped color block is text, "TNPathfinder.org."

Tennessee Disability Pathfinder offers a growing library of disability resources available at TNPathfinder.org. In addition to the growing directory of resources on Pathfinder’s website, here are some we’re highlighting this month TennCare Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) Benefit Need a ride to your medical appointment? TennCare offers a Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) benefit for members without… Read more Resource Corner – September 2025