News from Tennessee Disability Pathfinder
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
We’ve made a small change at Pathfinder. Our team that provides language access and community connection is now called Community Support. While the name is new, our mission is unchanged: to help individuals and families from a variety of backgrounds and languages navigate disability resources. Our team continues to offer case management assistance and educational training… Read more Community Support: A New Name, Same Great Team
Every person processes the world in their own way, thinking, learning, communicating, and interacting through a lens that is uniquely theirs. When we take time to understand and embrace these differences in how brains work, we can begin to unlock the strengths that might otherwise go unrecognized. At Tennessee Disability Pathfinder, we believe every individual… Read more Neurodivergence in Focus: Discover Resources that Empower Unique Strengths
Everyone wants a place they can belong and feel safe. Fostering a safe classroom can allow students to feel seen and valued for who they truly are. For a student who is neurodivergent, an inclusive environment is a critical part of creating a place of belonging within the school setting. Inclusive practices take time and… Read more Embracing Neurodivergence in the Classroom
Kayla Meredith is a creative person who is a native speaker of Japanese, avidly watches anime, and can state the complete evolution of every single Pokémon to any willing ear. She has a giving, gentle soul as evidenced by teaching English Conversation for free to a Ukrainian student abroad and volunteering monthly at the Frist… Read more Poems to Celebrate Differences
TRIAD: Building Stronger Communities Through Autism Support As a valued partner, TRIAD (Treatment and Research Institute for Autism Spectrum Disorders) at Vanderbilt University plays a crucial role in providing comprehensive services for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families. With an extensive array of programs, TRIAD supports the community through its specialized Resource… Read more Spotlight – April 2025: TRIAD
Social Security change : Agency begins taking back 100% of overpayments Social Security is reinstating its controversial plan to withhold 100% of people’s benefits if the agency has overpaid them. Last year, it began withholding 10% of funds it accidentally overpaid. A new Social Security rule goes into effect this week. No, not the change… Read more In the Know – April 2025: Social Security Changes
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 – April 2025
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 – April 2025
Research is a key component for making new discoveries and improving the lives of people with disabilities. It can also provide participants insight and support regarding their conditions, especially when there is a gap in services. Here are a few studies that may be of interest. Autism Support Services Study The Transitions Lab is currently… Read more ResearchAbility – April 2025