News from Tennessee Disability Pathfinder
Dear Compass Readers, Imagine driving home after a long day. You see flashing lights in your rearview mirror. You pull over, and suddenly you are being asked questions and given instructions while trying to process everything happening around you. Now imagine there is something important the officer needs to understand about you, but in that… Read more A Message from our Communications Manager
Emergencies do not discriminate, but their impacts are not experienced equally. For people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), preparedness must account for individual support needs while recognizing an important reality: no emergency plan can anticipate every situation. The response needs encountered during and immediately following Hurricane Helene and its devastating impacts on East Tennessee… Read more Emergency Preparedness in the I/DD Community
Emergencies are something none of us really wants to think about. We hope the individuals we care about will never experience a fire, severe weather event, medical emergency, evacuation, lockdown, or other dangerous situation. But whether someone is sitting in a classroom or relaxing at home, the unexpected can happen. For students with disabilities, emergency… Read more When the Unexpected Happens: Preparing Students with Disabilities for Emergencies
How the Scariest Emergency of My Life Made Me Better Prepared Written by William Bell, Tennessee Resident When Winter Storm Fern moved through Tennessee, I knew we could lose power. I mean, where we live if the wind blows too hard we lose power. I had lived through bad weather before, and I have always… Read more Inspiring Pathways: Tennessee Stories – September 2026
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 Build Your Readiness Circle: Support Without Giving Up… Read more Community Connections – September 2026
Navigando Juntos reconoce que encontrar recursos para discapacitados puede ser un desafío, especialmente cuando las diferencias en las habilidades, la cultura y el idioma crean barreras adicionales. Esta sección comparte herramientas prácticas, recursos confiables e información útil para facilitar la navegación por los servicios, empoderando a las personas y familias para encontrar el apoyo que… Read more Navegando Juntos (Navigating Together) – September 2026
Emergency Preparedness Tips
Note: Look for opportunities that help with Emergency Preparedness. Education is about more than what happens in the classroom. It is also about building the knowledge, confidence, and real-life skills that help people with disabilities pursue meaningful goals and make informed choices about their future. Across Tennessee, students and adults with disabilities are continuing their… Read more EmployAbility – September 2026
Each month brings a new set of celebrations, awareness observances, community gatherings, and local events happening across Tennessee. From statewide disability awareness months to family‑friendly activities, workshops, resource fairs, and special community spotlights, there’s always something meaningful to explore. Find what’s happening in your area by visiting our Community Calendar, where you can discover events… Read more Celebrations, Events & Opportunities – September 2026