Employment Planning for Next Gen

Teacher explaining illustration process to paralyzed student with disability working at painting project during artistic lesson in creativity studio. Diverse team sketching vase using graphic pencil.

Do you remember your very first job? Maybe it was scooping ice cream, babysitting, or stocking shelves at a local store. That first paycheck felt exciting, but more than money, it was about accomplishment, responsibility, and the confidence that came from contributing. For students with disabilities, those same opportunities are equally important, and schools and… Read more Employment Planning for Next Gen

Spotlight (October 2025) – From Recovery to Opportunity: Steady jobs through IPS in Tennessee

Two individuals are seated at a wooden table in a professional setting, with a notepad and a closed tablet placed on the table. The background includes a framed picture on the wall and a large window showing part of a building exterior. On the right side of the image, there is a dark blue panel featuring the word “Spotlight” in cursive text, the Tennessee Disability Pathfinder logo, and a white box with the logo and text: “IPS Individual Placement and Support – Recovery through Employment.”

Picture this: You’re focusing on your mental health and want to work, but you’re unsure how to connect with the right employer or what support will be available once you start. That’s where  IPS Supported Employment makes the difference. Individual Placement and Support (IPS) is designed for people living with mental health conditions. Instead of… Read more Spotlight (October 2025) – From Recovery to Opportunity: Steady jobs through IPS in Tennessee

ConnectAbility – October 2025

colorful cartoon graphic image with different people of different abilities, colors, etc. surrounding a globe with text "ConnectAbility." Quote bubbles around the image near the people figures say "Support, Access, Empower, Language, Educate, Engage." On the top left of the image in a blue circle is the disability symbol. On the top right of the image is Pathfinder's logo. And text on the top center of the image says, "RESOURCES."

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 – October 2025

EmployAbility – October 2025

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 the opportunity… Read more EmployAbility – October 2025

Tech CONNECT – October 2025

Dark blue background image with a graphic of the world centered at the top of the image with luminated dots and lines covering the globe. The globe sits in front of another faded background image that has connectivity dots and lines covering it. Below the globe is white and blue horizontal color block lines that feed into Pathfinder's logo. Text on the bottom left of the image, "TECH CONNECT." and three checkmart bullets with text: "Technology, Professional Supprts, and Resources."

Navigating disability resources can feel overwhelming at times, especially when technology is involved. This section is designed to make things easier by highlighting enabling technology devices, tools, and services to assist individuals with their unique needs, empowering them to live more independently and confidently in their daily lives. Technology and Employment: Tools for Real Jobs… Read more Tech CONNECT – October 2025

Upcoming Events – October 2025

A large white sign with bold red letters reads “UPCOMING EVENTS,” and below it, in smaller yellow text, “OCTOBER 2025.” The sign is placed in a pumpkin patch with several large orange pumpkins scattered on the ground. In the foreground, a small child wearing a floral top and blue jeans is standing near the pumpkins, facing the sign. The background shows green foliage and trees under a clear sky. The Tennessee Disability Pathfinder logo is visible in the upper left corner.

Find what’s happening in your area by visiting our Community Calendar and begin your journey with events that enhance your life experiences.  Also, follow us on social media to stay updated with events in the disability community. disAbility Employment Events ResourceAbility Fair | 2025 The Tennessee Department of Human Services’ Division of Rehabilitation Services is… Read more Upcoming Events – October 2025

Resource Corner – October 2025

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 SNAP Income Limits Have Changed In between jobs? Every year, USDA updates income limits, benefit amounts, and deductions to reflect inflation and cost-of-living changes.… Read more Resource Corner – October 2025

A Message from our Website & Database Coordinator – September 2025

The image features a gradient orange background with a rounded square photo of a person wearing a black shirt and gold chain on the left side. Below the photo, the text reads: 'Carvis Russell Website & Database Coordinator.' To the right, there is a circular compass logo above the words 'TENNESSEE DISABILITY PATHFINDER' in white uppercase letters. Below this, bold navy blue text states: "A MESSAGE FROM WEBSITE & DATA MANAGEMENT"

Dear Friends, Getting where you need to go is an important part of daily life. Transportation is something we all rely on. However, for people with disabilities, getting around can sometimes be harder. At Tennessee Disability Pathfinder, we want to help make things easier. This month’s newsletter, On the Move: Navigating Transportation with Disabilities, is all… Read more A Message from our Website & Database Coordinator – September 2025

Finding Your Way with Tennessee’s Transportation Options

A close-up view from the driver's seat inside a car, showing a smartphone mounted on the dashboard. The phone displays a GPS navigation app with a map and route highlighted in purple and yellow, directing the driver along Interstate 40 as shown by a red, white and blue highway symbol to "Ripley Tennessee," that is shown at the bottom of the phone screen in a dark rectuangular box. The screen shows directions, distance remaining (1.9 mi), estimated time (3 minutes), and current speed (43 m/h). The steering wheel is partially visible on the left, and blurred traffic lights and cars can be seen through the windshield in the background.

Transportation is more than just getting from Point A to Point B. It’s a key part of living a full, connected life. Whether it’s heading to a medical appointment, visiting friends, or pursuing a job opportunity, reliable transportation is essential for thriving in Tennessee. However, navigating the maze of transit options can be overwhelming, especially… Read more Finding Your Way with Tennessee’s Transportation Options