Inspiring Pathways: Tennessee Stories – January 2026

A conceptual image featuring a long, empty road stretching into the distance under a cloudy sky. The word “START” is painted in large white letters on the pavement near the foreground. At the center of the image, a large gold and green compass graphic is prominently displayed, symbolizing direction and guidance. Below the compass, the text reads “TENNESSEE DISABILITY PATHFINDER.” In the background, a faint silhouette of a modern city skyline appears through a hazy atmosphere, suggesting progress and opportunity ahead.

When Every Hour CountsA Mother’s Journey to Find Help Story by Sheena Adams-Avery, CDT, CDP, Communications Manager, with information provided by Linda Brown, Statewide Information & Referral Coordinator, TN Disability Pathfinder When Sarah realized her 15-year-old daughter was struggling with severe anxiety and depression, she knew a quick fix wasn’t enough. After an emergency 72-hour… Read more Inspiring Pathways: Tennessee Stories – January 2026

Quick Tips for the New Year – January 2026

Three individuals seated at a table in a bright indoor setting, engaged in discussion. One person is holding a tablet device while another gestures toward it. Behind them, a white wall displays a graphic with the Tennessee Disability Pathfinder logo and the words “TIPS & Tools” in bold blue and yellow text.

Starting the year with the right tools can make a big difference. These quick tips are designed to help people with disabilities, and those who support them, find resources more easily, ask the right questions, and stay organized throughout 2026. Whether you’re planning ahead or just getting started, these practical steps can simplify your journey.… Read more Quick Tips for the New Year – January 2026

EmployAbility – January 2026

A promotional graphic with a modern design featuring an office setting with gray cubicles and a bright red partition in the foreground. On the right side, large bold text reads “EMPLOY ABILITY.” Below, smaller text states “Employment and Volunteer Opportunities” next to a gray vertical bar with a red circle accent. At the bottom, a gray banner displays “TNPathfinder.org.” The Tennessee Disability Pathfinder logo with a compass icon appears in the lower-left corner.

Hey job seekers! Are you ready to embark on a transformative journey to a more inclusive and understanding workplace? Whether you’re seeking your dream job or the ideal volunteer opportunity, we’re sharing employment and volunteer opportunities, as well as resources, within the Tennessee disability community. Join us in embracing a future where every person has… Read more EmployAbility – January 2026

Celebrations, Events & Opportunities – January 2026

A blue graphic background with snowflake patterns and light bokeh effects. Large gradient text reads “UPCOMING EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES,” with the word “UPCOMING” featuring a compass icon in place of the letter “O.” Additional text shows “January 2026” in silver and white script near the top left corner.

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 – January 2026

Resource Corner – January 2026

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. For more than three decades, Homeplace served as a true home for four remarkable women with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Supported by Belmont… Read more Resource Corner – January 2026

It’s Giving Comfort & Joy: Holiday Gifts That Just Make Sense

Holiday-themed graphic featuring two large red-and-white striped candy canes positioned behind a person sitting cross-legged in front of a bright red background. The image includes colorful Christmas ornaments and a decorated tree on the right side. Text on the left reads “TENNESSEE DISABILITY PATHFINDER” with a compass logo above it, and below, the phrase “‘tis the season to be jolly” in festive fonts.

  Take a warm stroll down memory lane with us as we revisit one of our most popular holiday guides: Gift Ideas for People with Disabilities. First published to share thoughtful, practical suggestions, this guide returns refreshed for 2025 with updated tools, fresh categories, and quick ideas to help you choose gifts that bring comfort… Read more It’s Giving Comfort & Joy: Holiday Gifts That Just Make Sense

A Gift that Keeps on Giving – Then & Now

A glittery gold gift box tied with a bright red ribbon hangs on a decorated Christmas tree. The tree is adorned with white paper ornaments and warm string lights. The Tennessee Disability Pathfinder logo appears in the upper left corner.

How the Devices for Autism program continues to turn used tech into opportunity and purpose in 2025. Take a moment to revisit one of Pathfinder’s most impactful stories on the Devices for Autism program. First shared in 2024, this initiative turned old electronics into hope, jobs, and a brighter future. We’re resurfacing it now with… Read more A Gift that Keeps on Giving – Then & Now

Encouraging Connection Through Reading

Dark blue banner with large marquee-style letters spelling “READ” in glowing yellow lights. Decorative icons above the letters include a rainbow, a book with an apple, a banner reading “Acceptance,” and a wheelchair accessibility symbol. The Tennessee Disability Pathfinder logo appears in the top left corner, and a green potted plant sits in the bottom right corner against a beige wall.

Promoting Reading for Everyone A refreshed look at Pathfinder’s reading tools and ongoing initiative Books have the power to bring people together. For years, Pathfinder has shared stories and tools to help families and readers connect through books. This piece gathers our earlier newsletter message, the Pathfinder Bookmark, and our reading initiative into a single,… Read more Encouraging Connection Through Reading