Quick Tips for Connecting to Autism Supports – April 2026

Posted on by Pathfinder
Four young adults sit together at a table smiling and working on a craft activity using colorful paper shapes. Behind them is a sign that reads “Tips & Tools for Autism Acceptance.” Balloons in soft colors are placed around the room, and craft supplies are spread across the table. The Tennessee Disability Pathfinder logo appears in the top left corner.

Access to the right information can open the door to meaningful next steps. This month, instead of starting with a general search, try using trusted guides, curated resources, and partnership tools that can help you move from exploring options to identifying real supports. 🧭 Start with Resource Guides from Trusted PartnersBrowse resource guides developed by… Read more Quick Tips for Connecting to Autism Supports – April 2026

Celebrations, Events & Opportunities – April 2026

Posted on by Pathfinder

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 – April 2026

Resource Corner – April 2026

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. Step Up Squad Confidence Camp – Memphis, TN Step Up Squad is hosting Confidence Camp, a free two-day summer camp for children with limb… Read more Resource Corner – April 2026

A Message from the Chief Strategy Officer of Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities (TN Council on DD)

Posted on by Jolene Sharp
A bright green newsletter header featuring layered shamrocks, leafy shapes, and soft white flowers in the background. Large white text on the left reads “THE COMPASS.” On the right side, a circular compass illustration with gold and beige tones is placed against the green background. Below the title, a white banner stretches across the lower portion of the image with dark green text that reads “DDAM: Awareness Starts with Access to Information.” Beneath that, smaller text reads “March 2026 Issue.” The overall design uses a spring theme with vivid greens and subtle textures.

Dear Compass readers, Happy Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month! This annual celebration offers our community a chance to pause, reflect, and think about where we are headed. The theme of this month’s newsletter – “Awareness Starts with Access to Information” – is the perfect place to start. I began my work at the TN Council on… Read more A Message from the Chief Strategy Officer of Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities (TN Council on DD)

When the Path Forward Isn’t Clear: Why the Right Information Matters

Posted on by Sheena Adams-Avery, CDT, CDP
A scenic outdoor image showing three individuals traveling along a wide dirt path surrounded by tall green grass. The person in the center is using a wheelchair with “Tennessee Disability Pathfinder” printed on the back. The individuals on the left and right are walking beside the wheelchair user. The path leads toward rolling hills in the distance, with a warm golden sunset on the horizon. A circular Tennessee Disability Pathfinder compass logo appears in the sky above the hills.

  How Pathfinder walks with people, navigating complex situations, one question at a time. People often reach out to Pathfinder after they’ve tried everything they can think of. Search results conflict, eligibility language is dense, and “what to do next” isn’t obvious. Some are looking for developmental disability resources for the first time; others return… Read more When the Path Forward Isn’t Clear: Why the Right Information Matters

Spotlight Partnership: Pathfinder Joins Little Blue Theatre for All Smiles

Posted on by Colin Peterson
Graphic featuring the phrase “Partner Spotlight” in light script lettering on the left side, with a small compass icon integrated into the text. On the right side, the logo for Little Blue Theatre Company appears in bold blue lettering, accented by an illustrated gold kite with a looping string. The two sections are divided by a curved white and blue design element.

This March, as we focus on how the right information helps people move forward when next steps aren’t clear, Pathfinder is excited to share a new community partnership that reflects that same spirit of guidance, clarity, and steady support. Pathfinder is partnering with Little Blue Theatre Company for their debut production, All Smiles, a joyful,… Read more Spotlight Partnership: Pathfinder Joins Little Blue Theatre for All Smiles

Community Connections – March 2026

Posted on by Pathfinder
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.

Navigating resources can be difficult, and differences in abilities, culture, and language can make it even more challenging. By bridging these differences, we aim to strengthen connections to the resources and support people need most. This section highlights programs and shares tools that address these challenges, fostering greater opportunities to access disability resources and creating… Read more Community Connections – March 2026

Inspiring Pathways: Tennessee Stories – March 2026

Posted on by Pathfinder
Two people sitting at a table with an open laptop in front of them. The laptop screen displays a graphic with a location pin icon containing a compass symbol, along with three circular icons representing search, messaging, and a group of people. Both individuals are focused on the laptop, with one person’s hands resting near the keyboard. A sofa and pillow are visible in the background.

Dual DiagnosisHelping a Family Navigate a Challenging Transition Story provided by April Meredith, Statewide Information & Referral Coordinator, TN Disability Pathfinder Edited by Sheena Adams-Avery, CDT, CDP, Communications Manager Every day, parents, caregivers, educators, and service providers encounter moments that feel bigger than the resources they have on hand. These aren’t emergencies, they’re crossroads. And… Read more Inspiring Pathways: Tennessee Stories – March 2026