Author: Linda Brown

Community Connections – August 2026

Posted on by Linda Brown
Split-screen graphic with two sections. On the left, a textured teal and green background features large white text reading “COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS” with a gold compass logo below and the words “Tennessee Disability Pathfinder.” On the right, an illustrated design shows diverse individuals, including people using wheelchairs, gathered around a globe labeled “Connectability.” Surrounding the globe are icons and speech bubbles with words such as “Resources,” “Access,” “Empower,” “Support,” “Language,” and “Engage.” The background includes abstract patterns and symbols representing communication and collaboration.

Community is stronger when we support one another. This section spotlights peer support groups, caregiver networks, community-based programs, and organizations that foster belonging, encouragement, and shared experiences. By highlighting opportunities to connect, we aim to strengthen relationships and ensure no one has to navigate their journey alone It Takes More Than One Meeting: Building a… Read more Community Connections – August 2026

Inspiring Pathways: Tennessee Stories – April 2026

Posted on by Linda Brown
A man sits confidently on a spotted Appaloosa horse, facing down a winding sunlit path through rolling green hills. The scene blends a real horseback riding photo with a warm landscape, symbolizing forward movement and independence. The rider wears dark clothing and sits upright in the saddle while the horse stands calmly. A soft sunrise glow lights the path ahead, and a subtle compass icon appears in the sky, suggesting guidance and direction. The image represents growing confidence, decision-making, and moving forward with support.

Growing Confidence, One Decision at a Time Written by: Linda Brown, Statewide Information & Referral Coordinator, Pathfinder Our son, Terrell, is 30 years old and has a diagnosis of mild to moderate autism. Over the past two years, we’ve watched something remarkable unfold. Terrell has begun putting thoughtful consideration into the decisions he makes. He asks… Read more Inspiring Pathways: Tennessee Stories – April 2026

A Message from our Statewide Information & Referral Coordinator

Posted on by Linda Brown
Blue gradient background image with a wavy blue shape on the bottom left and a wavy red shape on the top right of the image. On the left of the image is a pic of "Linda Brown INFORMATION & REFERRAL COORDINATOR." Text on the right of the image is "A MESSAGE FROM OUR INFORMATION & REFERRAL COORDINATOR." Pathfinder's branded graphic is on the top right of the image.

Dear Friends, Autism Acceptance Month is a meaningful time to educate, reflect, and celebrate the unique strengths of individuals on the autism spectrum. But acceptance goes beyond raising awareness. It’s about shifting how society understands autism, therefore creating a more thoughtful, respectful, and supportive environment where individuals can thrive. This journey calls for us to… Read more A Message from our Statewide Information & Referral Coordinator

Here All Year: Empowering Individuals with I/DD Through Support and Opportunity

Posted on by Linda Brown
texture gray background image with two photos with bar codes set on the bottom left of the white borders surrounding each photo. Both photos are of a brown skin man with short hair. in the image to the left he's waring a gray tee shirt and dark blue shorts with a guitar strapped to his back. In the photo to the right he's wearing a black hooded short sleeve shirt and dark colored pants standing in front of a table with Pathfinder's logo. Both photos are laying on top of a silver ribbon.

The world of developmental disabilities is vast, filled with millions of individuals living with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Over the decades, we’ve seen significant progress as people with I/DD have moved from institutional settings to living in their own homes, smaller group environments, or family models. Today, individuals with I/DD are being given opportunities… Read more Here All Year: Empowering Individuals with I/DD Through Support and Opportunity

Perspectives in their View – “Lions, Tigers and Transportation Barriers, Oh My!”

Posted on by Linda Brown
Light-colored background image of a room with a window on the right facing the blue sky and blue water. On the left of the image is a circular photo on the right side of a light blue color block on the edge of the image. The photo is of a young black man wearing all black and holding a black bag with a silver necklace around his neck. He is standing in front of the rear of a blue SUV. In the center of the image is dark blue text, "IN THEIR OWN WORDS PERSPECTIVES IN VIEW Lions, Tigers and Transportation Barriers, Oh My! Accessing Transportation with Autism by Linda Brown, Advocate and Mother."

Imagine finally finding the perfect job. It’s a job within your skillset and you’re confident you can successfully perform this job. You feel comfortable. You are building relationships with your coworkers, and it is an overall great environment to work in. But wait! Despite overcoming the many barriers you might face as an autistic person… Read more Perspectives in their View – “Lions, Tigers and Transportation Barriers, Oh My!”

A Message from Pathfinder’s Statewide Information & Referral Coordinator

Posted on by Linda Brown
Blue gradient background image with a wavy blue shape on the bottom left and a wavy red shape on the top right of the image. On the left of the image is a pic of "Linda Brown INFORMATION & REFERRAL COORDINATOR." Text on the right of the image is "A MESSAGE FROM OUR INFORMATION & REFERRAL COORDINATOR." Pathfinder's branded graphic is on the top right of the image.

Dear Friends of Pathfinder, Home for the Holidays can mean something different for each family. Whether it means staying at home and celebrating with your family, visiting friends and family, or starting a new tradition. The holidays can be a busy and sometimes stressful time of year. It is important that we remember to take… Read more A Message from Pathfinder’s Statewide Information & Referral Coordinator

In Their Own Words – Perspectives in View: TRUSTing the Process – Special Needs Trust

Posted on by Linda Brown

Financial planning for any family can be stressful, and planning for a child with a disability is no different, especially when you don’t have all the information. Establishing a special needs trust was a step that our family delayed due to the unknowns. When deciding when or how to set up a special needs trust,… Read more In Their Own Words – Perspectives in View: TRUSTing the Process – Special Needs Trust