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 that support your goals, spark connections, and enhance your everyday experiences.
And don’t forget to follow Pathfinder on social media to stay updated on monthly celebrations, community happenings, and upcoming opportunities across Tennessee.
Pathfinder Events
Start Strong: Navigating the Road from School to Adult Life
A new year of Pathfinder webinars begins with one of the most important journeys of all: transition.
Tennessee Disability Pathfinder is kicking off its 2026–2027 webinar year with Navigating Transition Services & Supports, a timely session designed to help youth and young adults with disabilities, families, educators, and service providers better understand the services and resources that can help make the move from school to adult life a little easier to navigate.
Join us Thursday, September 24, 2026, from 11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. CT as presenter Jena Costanzo breaks down transition planning and the different supports available as young people begin thinking about what comes next.
Transition is about more than graduation. It is about preparing for education and training, employment, independent living, and community participation while helping young people identify their own strengths, interests, preferences, and goals for the future.
During this webinar, participants will explore the continuum of Vocational Rehabilitation services, including Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS), VR Transition Services, and VR Employment Services. These supports are designed to build upon one another from early career exploration and skill building to individualized planning, job preparation, and employment support.
And because knowing what support is available is only part of the journey, Jena will also demonstrate how Tennessee Disability Pathfinder can help individuals and families locate transition-related resources and build a network of support around their needs and goals.
This session sets the stage for a new year of Pathfinder webinars focused on transition, preparation, resources, and what comes next. Whether transition planning is just beginning or you are already searching for employment and adult-service supports, this is a great place to start.
Save the date and join us as we kick off a new webinar year by helping Tennessee’s young people move forward with information, resources, and a plan for what’s next.
Navigating Transition Services & Supports
Thursday, September 24, 2026
11:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. CT
Presenter: Jena Costanzo
Register today and join us for the first webinar of this series!
Community Events
CreArte Fest 2026 invites children to participate in the “Meeting of Traditions” Art Contest, an opportunity to showcase their creativity through original works of art inspired by cultural traditions from around the world.
The contest encourages young artists to explore and celebrate their cultural heritage while fostering a sense of identity, pride, and belonging. Through thoughtful, personal, and respectful artistic expression, participants are invited to share their stories, celebrate diversity, and highlight the traditions that enrich their families and communities. This inspiring artistic experience promotes creativity, cultural awareness, and an appreciation for the diverse traditions that shape our world.
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?
The contest is open to children 7–15 years of agewho reside in the United States. Participation is free of charge.
Participants may submit entries in more than one category. To ensure a fair and balanced judging process, entries in each category will be evaluated in the following age groups:
•Ages 7–10
•Ages 11–15
All submissions will be reviewed by a distinguished panel of artists, educators, and cultural leaders with expertise in children’s art, cultural diversity, and creative development.
REGISTRATION
•Participants may register by completing the Meeting of Traditions Art Contest Registration Form.
•Registration and artwork submissions must be received by August 19, 2026.
SELECTION AND AWARDS
•The winners will be announced on August 29, 2026, during CreArte Fest 2026, held at the Bandshell at oneC1TY Park from Noon to 6 p.m.
LEARN MORE
•Email: creartefestlmca@gmail.com
•Web: www.lamisionconarte.org
•Social: @LaMisionConArte
♦Spanish details | Detalles en español
Get Boo’d up for the the 3rd Annual VIP Children’s Clinic / Vanderbilt Children’s Trunk or Treat at Travis Price Park in Springfield, Tennessee, on October 10, 2026, from 5:00–7:00 PM CT.
Each year this event gets bigger and better, and we’re looking for vendors to join the spooky fun. Come decorate your trunk, share treats, and be part
of a fang-tastic community event!
Please contact Debbie E or Brandy G. at 615-384-0600 debbie.evetts@vumc.org or brandy.appleton@vumc.org