News and Events

Celebrate Pi Day at the Pickleball Open, 3/14

2026-02-27T14:16:39-05:00

February 24, 2026 … Pickleball Pi, anyone? The second annual ��Ƶ Pickleball Open is set for Pi Day, Saturday, March 14 at The Clark Sports Center in Cooperstown, starting at 8 a.m. This indoor tournament promises to promote fair play, fun and friendships for newcomers and seasoned players alike.

Play will be organized into two flights and will feature round-robin matches. Proceeds will support Pathfinder’s latest project, The Farmstead Market and Community Center. This exciting, sustainably designed and constructed building will open in late 2026, repurposing a 19th-century farmstead into a public community center and a full-time fresh foods market, retail store, and a culinary arts training kitchen that will serve grab-and-go foods. The Center will also host hands-on learning and classroom training opportunities to support Pathfinder’s prevocational and community employment programs for adults with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities. The new Center will also feature outdoor recreation spaces, including a native plant meadow, sculpture spaces, and community pickleball courts.

Registration for the Pickleball Open is online at https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/2026-pathfinder-village-pickleball-open. The $150 registration fee includes a grab-and-go breakfast, a bag lunch, an event tee, and prizes for the winning brackets. Players should bring their favorite rackets, wear suitable footwear, and are expected to follow The Clark Sports Center's Rules of Court Etiquette. In case of inclement weather, play will take place the following day.

During the lunch break, ��Ƶ athletes will play exhibition matches, underscoring that pickleball is among the fastest growing sports today, as it is easy to learn, community-driven, and can be played by athletes of all abilities and ages.

The 2026 Pickleball Open is supported by sponsored NYCM, Hughson & Benson Associates Insurance, and The Clark Sports Center. This Open was inspired by its sister event, the ��Ƶ Tennis Classic, which has raised nearly $300,000 to support the Village Foundation's Scholarship Endowment. This fund helps Village residents and students with tuition and fees and allows them to continue their paths of growth and independence at Pathfinder's world-renowned community.

'Shop Local' Farmers' Market offered on Nov. 15

2025-11-07T15:38:06-05:00

Edmeston, New York, Nov. 7, 2025 ... Get a start on your holiday list and shop local at the Winter Farmers’ Market at ��Ƶ on Saturday, Nov. 15, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Over 20 local craftspeople, vendors, and small business owners will offer their wares in a lively atmosphere that celebrates community.

“Shopping local is one of the best ways we can support our community, our neighborhood artisans and small businesses,” said Lori Grace, associate director of the ��Ƶ Foundation. “Our seasonal markets are filled with unique, specialty crafts and items, and offer a shopping experience that’s one-of-a-kind. There’s something for everyone, and we’re grateful for the creativity and variety our vendors bring to our seasonal market.”

Featured vendors will showcase paintings, drawings, quilling and other paper arts, crocheted gifts and items, beef jerky, maple syrup, handmade wreaths, glass trivets, novelty crayons, tallow products, dog treats, woodwork crafts, rings, socks, fragrance products, lotions, earrings, and baked items.

A snack concession will be available during the market, to benefit the new ��Ƶ All-Stars team, which is raising funds to participate in adaptive baseball tournaments throughout the country hosted by Casey’s Clubhouse. The Pathfinder team made their debut at this summer’s Casey’s Clubhouse Hall of Fame Tournament at historic Doubleday Field, Cooperstown. Casey's Clubhouse was founded by former MLB All-Star Sean Casey and his wife, Mandy, and provides inclusive sports opportunities for children and athletes with special needs. The organization promotes fitness, teamwork, and the joy of sports, as it works to foster a sense of community and belonging, celebrate abilities, and remove barriers for people of all abilities.

About ��Ƶ: ��Ƶ is an internationally respected, livable community in upstate
New York and was founded in 1980 to provide people living with Down syndrome and related disabilities an independent, engaging, and fulfilling lifestyle. The Village offers highly successful educational and pre-vocational programs, including its post-secondary program, Otsego Academy, and its community-based day services for regional residents. The Village also offers quality services and supports for older persons with intellectual disabilities. To learn more about ��Ƶ, please call (607) 965-8377, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., visit the website at pathfindervillage.org, or visit our social media on Facebook and Instagram.

Construction underway at The Farmstead!

2025-07-30T07:22:57-04:00

Edmeston, NY, July 25, 2025 – ��Ƶ announces construction is underway on The Farmstead Market and Community Center, a $5.5 million project that will increase healthy food access for families in the Northern Unadilla River Valley, create job training opportunities for adults with intellectual disabilities, and serve as a lively new venue for community events and outdoor recreation. The project is expected to be completed in fall 2026.

The project repurposes a historic farmstead at the Village and will serve as the new home of Pathfinder’s Adult Day Services pre-vocational programs and the Pathfinder Produce microbusiness, which has offered sales of fresh produce to area customers since 2013. The Farmstead Market and Community Center will allow the expansion of store hours from two- to five days each week and will add to the varieties of produce and grocery staples for sale. The store will feature locally sourced foods, items from local artisans, and merchandise from entrepreneurs with disabilities.

The Market will include a culinary arts training kitchen that will serve grab-and-go items, such as sandwiches, soups and salads. A culinary arts and food service curriculum is offered through the Village’s Career-Specific Vocational Training program, which features 12-weeks of focused instruction, hands-on training, and employment supports as part of an ongoing partnership with the state’s Office for People with Developmental Disabilities.

The Market will include a culinary arts training kitchen that will serve grab-and-go items, such as sandwiches, soups, and salads. A culinary arts and food service curriculum is offered through the Village’s Career-Specific Vocational Training program, which features 12-weeks of focused instruction, hands-on training, and employment supports as part of an ongoing partnership with the state’s Office for People with Developmental Disabilities.

“The Farmstead Market and Community Center will help define Pathfinder’s future role as it expands training and work opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, supports the local community through essential services and expanded food access, and plays a larger role in the area economy,” said Village President and Chief Executive Officer Karen Knavel. “The Farmstead has been in the planning for over three years, and we are grateful to our many partners who have supported this new development. We’re excited to watch with our individuals, families, neighbors, project team, and stakeholders as construction proceeds this summer.”

The project received a $1.8 million construction grant from the Empire State Development Corporation in support of the state’s employment, economic development, and carbon reduction goals. The 5,700 sq. ft. facility will incorporate energy savings and healthy air quality strategies to meet Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards, a global rating system that provides a framework for design, construction, operations, and maintenance of high-performance green buildings.

The design and construction project team for The Farmstead Market and Community Center include Teresa Drerup and Virginia Ofer of Altonview Architects, Cooperstown; Anthony Obernesser, Rob Munson, Tim Huff, and Kathleen Rooney of Pike Construction, Utica and Rochester; William Towne and Jeffrey Semple of Towne Engineering, Utica; Joe Messier, Scott Kelly, and Grace Friedhoff of Re:Vision, Philadelphia; Dan Quiri of Quiri Engineering, Fort Hunter; Christopher Longo of Empire Engineering, Duanesburg; Robert Cosselman of John P. Stopen Engineering, Syracuse.

The Farmstead project continues a series of infrastructure improvements at the Village since 2021 to visually and physically integrate Pathfinder’s Main Village and West Village, provide safe walking paths for Village residents and service recipients in support of fitness and independence, and to maximize the Village’s assets in creating opportunities for community inclusion and engagement. For further information, please contact CEO Karen Knavel at (607) 965-8377.

��Ƶ is an internationally respected livable community and services provider in upstate New York. The Village was founded in 1980 to provide people with Down syndrome and other disabilities an independent and fulfilling lifestyle. As it works to provide quality supports for individuals with intellectual disabilities, the Village also offers highly successful educational, day services, vocational/pre-vocational, and outreach programs.

Sign Up for the Splash Path 5k at ��Ƶ!

2025-04-22T16:37:13-04:00

Splash Path 5k offers 12^th year of colorful fun on May 17

Pathfinder’s signature 5k for athletes of all abilities features a
color burst and post-race festival

Edmeston, NY, April 22, 2025… Celebrate all the colors of spring at the 12th annual Splash Path 5k and Fun Walk at ��Ƶ on Saturday, May 17. Online registration is open for this affordable color run-and-walk that is raising funds for Pathfinder’s latest community project, The Farmstead Market and Community Center.

“Splash Path is a fun, inclusive event that celebrates community. We welcome businesses, families, groups, teams -- walkers and runners of all ages and abilities,” said Splash Path Chair Monica Clark. “After your 5k, enjoy our post-race festival with food trucks, craft and vendor exhibits, kids’ games, a ticket auction, and more.”

“Splash Path has traditionally supported projects that strengthen our local community,” added Mrs. Clark. “We are very excited about opening a new shopping and gathering place for our friends and neighbors. We appreciate the tremendous support we’ve received for Splash Path for over a decade.”

Ring in the holidays at ��Ƶ

2024-12-05T14:25:42-05:00

Edmeston, New York, December 5, 2024 … Celebrate the joyous sounds of the season with ��Ƶ at a free community concert featuring the Sidney Community Band on Saturday, December 14 at 2 p.m. The concert at the Pathfinder Gymnasium will also feature cookie decoration stations and hot cocoa for all to enjoy.

Under the direction of Amy Hoxie, the Sidney Community Band includes musicians of all ages who enjoy playing a lively variety of songs, marches, show tunes, and holiday classics. Their ensemble continues the American tradition of community bands, which were featured at hometown parades and other community events from the 19^th century on.

The performance by the Sidney Community Band closes out the Village’s Arts in the Community concert series.

��Ƶ’s 2024 musical performances were funded by private donors, Stewart’s Shops Holiday Match Program, and WGY’s Christmas Wish. The Arts in the Community series was also funded by Earlville Opera House's Arts in the Community Grants Program, made possible by the New York State Legislature with the support of the Office of the Governor, and administered by the New York State Council on the Arts.

Center on Down Syndrome offers webinars on Navigating Life Changes

2024-10-02T11:05:20-04:00

Edmeston, New York, October 2, 2024 … The Kennedy Willis Center on Down Syndrome has opened registration for its annual fall Lunch & Learn webinar series. This year’s course, Navigating Changes of Life, will focus on helping people with intellectual disabilities cope with grief, loss, and other difficult transitions. The webinars will be held on four consecutive Wednesdays, Oct. 23 & 30, and Nov. 6 and 13, starting at noon. Registration information is at the Center’s website at kwcdownsyndrome.org.

“People with intellectual and developmental disabilities experience loss in similar ways to you and I but can also face unique challenges of unrecognized or prolonged grief. This may result in complex reactions as they cope with different losses throughout their life,” said Brittany Goodrich, Director of the Kennedy Willis Center on Down Syndrome. “These losses are not just the deaths of people close to them, but can be smaller experiences such as adjustments to their daily routines, the loss of previously learned skills, changes to people filling volunteer or paid employment positions, or transitions to a new home or program that diminish connections with existing social supports.”

This webinar series will explore the components of the grief process and include age-appropriate strategies that support children, teens, and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities through challenging life experiences. Arlen Grad Gaines and Linda Clark, expert presenters and career counselors, will share resources and inclusive, practical techniques that help build awareness and address the complicated impact of grief. Registered participants will receive the recorded webinar links, an electronic tool kit of resources, and a digital certificate for three Ongoing Professional Development Hours from the Center following the conclusion of the series.

The $30 registration fee covers all four webinar sessions. The webinars will be on the Zoom meeting platform and facilitated by E. Adel Herge, OTD/OTR/L, FAOTA, Jefferson Elder Care, Thomas Jefferson University, and Director Goodrich.

Featured Presenters Include:

INSPIRE to showcase artists during Down Syndrome Awareness Month

2024-09-27T12:02:10-04:00

Edmeston, New York, September 27, 2024 … ��Ƶ will showcase the creative talents of Village artists during the opening of a new exhibit, Inspire, at the gymnasium on Sunday, October 20, from 2 to 5 p.m. The public is invited to the opening, part of Pathfinder’s observance of October as National Down Syndrome Awareness Month.

“The Inspire exhibition shares the exceptional visions of Pathfinder’s artists and showcases their considerable talents and sources of inspiration,” said ��Ƶ President and Chief Executive Officer Karen Knavel. “This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a unique exhibit and connect with artists and the community.”

The exhibit is curated by Colette Dunham, a teaching artist who leads community-based workshops at ��Ƶ and throughout the area to encourage people of all abilities to express themselves through painting and other visual arts. In the lead-up to the exhibition, the Village will also share selected colorful paintings and multi-media pieces by Pathfinder artists on its social media pages. Other social posts during the month will feature facts and findings about Trisomy 21, as well as employment facts for people with intellectual disabilities, as October is also National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

There are over 350,000 people living with Down syndrome in the U.S. today, and October is celebrated each year as National Down Syndrome Awareness Month. The observance was established in 1991 through an Executive Order by President George H.W. Bush which states, “…we know that many individuals with Down syndrome are both determined and able to lead active, productive lives. Thanks to early intervention and mainstreaming, as well as improved treatment of physical health problems related to Down syndrome, thousands are doing just that.”

Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal replication disorder in humans, affecting about 5,000 babies born each year in the U.S. The condition occurs when a person’s cells have an additional or partial extra copy of chromosome 21.

Fall events raise over $81,000 for Scholarship Fund

2024-09-16T09:11:00-04:00

Runners-Up Chris Hulse and Tracy Roberts, along with winners John Ryland and Dave Lemire, right, were the Flight A finalists for the 15th annual ��Ƶ Tennis Classic, played at the Har-Tru Courts of the Cooperstown Country Club on Monday, September 9. (��Ƶ Photo-Bill Schaeffer).

COOPERSTOWN, NY, September 16, 2024 … Tennis enthusiasts, golfers, and friends of ��Ƶ gathered on Monday, September 9, at the ��Ƶ Tennis Classic and the ��Ƶ-Baseball Hall of Fame Golf Invitational. Culminating with an awards banquet at The Otesaga Resort Hotel, the two benefits raised over $81,000 for residential and student scholarships for people with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities.

“It’s an honor to be part of this decades-long tradition that celebrates two sports and two world-class non-profits, ��Ƶ and the National Baseball Hall of Fame,” said Pathfinder’s Chief Executive Officer Karen Knavel, who joined the Edmeston-based community in January. “In planning these events, I was taken by our volunteers’ enthusiasm and dedication. It is amazing these events have been so successful – 42 years for golf and 15 years for tennis. We are grateful for your faith in our mission, and I’m grateful to be joining in that work.”

The banquet included recognition of The Clark Estates and The Otesaga Resort Hotel, which have been major sponsors over the golf tournament’s four decades. NBT Bank and Coca-Cola Beverages Northeast were recognized for their 25^th year as the golf event’s Presenting Sponsor and Corporate Sponsor, respectively. Longtime sponsors, the Hanft and Sokolik families, Strategic Financial Services, and the Dairy Farmers of America, and the Cooperstown Country Club were recognized for their key support for the Tennis Classic, now in its 15^th year.

Big Rig Shindig postponed until 2025

2024-09-13T15:40:37-04:00

It is with sincere regret that we announce the cancellation of the upcoming Big Rig Shindig event, scheduled for Saturday, September 28, 2024.

After careful consideration, due to unforeseen circumstances and limited vehicles we believe this is the best course of action to ensure the well-being and enjoyment of all participants.

We understand how much excitement surrounds this event, and we apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. If you are interested in exhibiting at our 2025 Big Rig Shindig, please reach out to our Development department.

***

About ��Ƶ: ��Ƶ is an internationally respected, livable community in upstate New York and was founded in 1980 to provide people living with Down syndrome and related disabilities an independent, engaging, and fulfilling lifestyle. As it works to provide quality supports for older individuals with intellectual disabilities, the Village also offers highly successful educational and pre-vocational programs, including its post-secondary program, Otsego Academy, and its community-based day services for regional residents. To learn more about ��Ƶ, please call (607) 965-8377, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., visit the website at pathfindervillage.org, or visit our social media on Facebook and Instagram.

Cruise-In set for ��Ƶ

2024-07-15T10:43:10-04:00

Edmeston, New York, July 15, 2024 ... Enjoy ice cream treats, dance to good time rock ‘n roll, watch a hot air balloon lift-off, and enjoy gleaming restored vehicles at this year’s Cruise-In at ��Ƶ on Thursday, August 1, from 5 to 7 p.m. Organized by employees of NYCM’s Casualty Department, this community event will include voting for the “Best of Show” vehicle. The Cruise-In is free and all are welcome.

Volunteers will serve free Gilligan’s of Sherburne ice cream with all the toppings, including Pathfinder’s signature flavor, “Pathfinder Palooza,” now a Cruise-In favorite. Listen to classic music hits with a special performance by Elvis tribute artist Don Brown, and watch a balloon lift-off with Norwich-area balloon pilot Dave Sheldon, weather permitting.

Co-Chairs Kim Mack and Pete Smith of NYCM invite all area vintage car and motorcycle owners to share their vehicles with fans at the Pathfinder Pavilion. No advance registration is required. The third annual “Best of Show” trophy will be presented that evening. Past winners include Bob Stilson of Endwell for his 1973 Mustang Convertible, and 2022’s winner, Harvey and Betty Hunter of West Winfield for their 1947 MG TD roadster.

“We hope area vehicle lovers will join us for a fun evening with great vintage restorations and modern classics. With Pathfinder’s beautiful setting, the ice cream and toppings, live music, and balloon lift-off, it will be a night that celebrates the best of our community,” said Mrs. Mack. “We’re grateful to our volunteers, the team at Gilligan’s, Don Brown, the Sheldon Family, and our local car enthusiasts for supporting this annual community event.”

***

Pathfinder celebrates 225 years of service by staff

2024-07-11T10:31:19-04:00

Edmeston, New York, July 10, 2024 ... ��Ƶ celebrated the work anniversaries of 26 employees and their dedication to serving people with intellectual disabilities during a special luncheon at the ��Ƶ Pavilion on Wednesday, July 10. The staff members were honored for their collective 225 years of service to the community and Village families.

In addressing the honorees, Board Chair William F. Streck, MD, said, “I've been associated with Pathfinder since 1982. Over that time, there have been great leaders, and we built a lot of things. We're still building. But the fundamental thing I've realized over all these years is the whole heart of Pathfinder is in the work you do.”

“Our staff innovates and motivates as it supports individuals -- this commitment reveals itself in many ways and has lasting impacts,” said President and Chief Executive Officer Karen Knavel. “Your dedication to the ‘greater good’ leads to raising awareness of the possibilities for people with Down syndrome and other developmental disabilities. It also leads to greater inclusion and offers our individuals and coworkers opportunities for growth.”

This year’s honorees include Chief Financial Officer Caprice Eckert, who completed 30 years of service to Pathfinder, providing leadership and expertise in all areas of nonprofit administration and human resources management. Residential Team Leader Nancy Olsen and Direct Support Professional (DSP) Peter Iorio, both veterans in direct care services, have completed 15 years each.

Pathfinder to host Arts in the Community Concerts

2024-06-10T11:04:59-04:00

Edmeston, New York, June 10, 2024 … Celebrate the great sounds of summer with ��Ƶ during its Arts in the Community Concerts at the Pavilion.

Free live performances will be offered each Monday in July and August, starting at 5:30 p.m. Nashville recording artist Tom Nitti of New Hartford will be featured in the kick-off concert on July 1. Nitti came to national prominence as a member of Team Reba on NBC’s popular show, The Voice, late in 2023.

“Our free concerts have been a hallmark of summer in Otsego County for many years, and we’re excited to feature Tom Nitti as our lead-off show,” said Monica Clark, the Village’s Manager of Fund Development & People Engagement. “We love sharing our community and our love of music with everyone. This year we’re also bringing back our affordable food concessions so that families and music lovers can enjoy a light supper or refreshments as they relax during the performances at our Pavilion.”

The concessions will be organized by volunteers from the residents’ advocacy and advisory group, Council Rock. Along with drinks and snacks, the Council Rock members will sell a light supper menu and ice cream treats from Gilligan’s of Sherburne. Details are on Pathfinder’s Facebook events pages. Food sale proceeds will benefit Council Rock’s diversity, equity, and inclusion outreach activities in the community.

��Ƶ’s musical performances are funded by private donors, Stewart’s Shops Holiday Match Program, and WGY’s Christmas Wish. This project is also funded by Earlville Opera House's Arts in the Community Grants Program, made possible by the New York State Legislature with support of the Office of the Governor, and administered by the New York State Council on the Arts.

Splash Path offers 11th year of colorful fun on May 18

2024-04-19T11:23:46-04:00

Edmeston, NY, April 19, 2024… Celebrate all the colors of spring at the 11th annual Splash Path 5k and Fun Walk at ��Ƶ on Saturday, May 18. Online registration is open for this affordable color run-and-walk that is raising funds for Pathfinder’s vocational programs and the Pathfinder Produce Mobile Market.

“Splash Path is a lively, inclusive event that celebrates community. We welcome businesses, families, groups, teams -- walkers and runners of all ages and abilities,” said Splash Path Chair Monica Clark. “After your 5k, enjoy our post-race festival with live music by Litt Hour, food trucks, craft and vendor exhibits, and a ticket auction.”

“Splash Path has grown and helped support projects and programs that strengthen the local community,” added Mrs. Clark. “We appreciate the tremendous support we’ve received for Splash Path through the years.”

Splash Path features non-toxic colors and is a rain-or-shine event. Participants may register online at Race Roster: https://raceroster.com/events/2024/87616/splash-path-2024. All participants must sign waivers to take part; no dogs or bicycles are permitted on the route. On event day, registration opens at 8:30 a.m., craft and vendor booths open at 9 a.m., the kick-off ZUMBA Dance Party is at 9:30 a.m., and the color burst starts at 10 a.m.

WDSD activities eclipsed expectations

2024-04-15T13:15:38-04:00

Edmeston, New York, April 15, 2024 … ��Ƶ’s awareness campaign for World Down Syndrome Day, March 21, eclipsed all expectations with colorful socks, blue-and-yellow decorations, and fun online and in-person promotional events.

As part of its annual “3-21 Challenge,” ��Ƶ partnered with the employees of NYCM Insurance for their “Rock Your Socks” crazy socks day and charity games of “21” with members of the Village’s Adult Day Services serving as dealers. Through these awareness activities at the insurance company’s Edmeston, Sherburne, Canajoharie and Orchard Park locations, the NYCM staff raised $1,500 to benefit the non-profit organization. Wearing bright, colorful, mismatched socks on World Down Syndrome Day is a widespread tradition, as chromosomes resemble socks when imaged through high-resolution microphotography.

Other local businesses celebrated World Down Syndrome Awareness through special activities, including a donation drawing at High Burl Brewery, West Burlington, which raised $800. Local decoration contest winners included Hoyt’s Hardware, Local Gas, Spike’s Pizza & Grocery, the Benson Family, NBT Bank-Edmeston, and All the Perks Coffee Truck. Online, the ��Ƶ Foundation raised over $11,000 with its $21 Challenge, which encouraged donors’ participation and peer-to-peer connections over social media.

Other events and activities during the month that focused on neighborly engagement and connecting globally with others in the Down syndrome community included a winter farmer’s market, a community painting class, a concert with Scattered Flurries, Otsego Academy’s Leadership week with peers from Colgate University, and the 11th-anniversary market for Pathfinder Produce, the Village’s signature microbusiness that provides the community access to fresh fruits and vegetables.

March 21 – “3-21” – is observed as World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD) as the numerical date represents the triplication of the 21st chromosome in the human genotype, the genetic cause of 95% of occurrences of Down syndrome or Trisomy 21. WDSD has been observed since 2006; it first received recognition by the United Nations in 2012.

Pathfinder Produce offers new, extended market hours

2024-03-06T08:20:28-05:00

Community market to celebrate its 11th anniversary on 3-21

Edmeston, New York, March 5, 2024 … Pathfinder Produce, the fresh fruits and vegetables market at the ��Ƶ Commons, is extending its hours starting this week. The new market hours are Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., with additional hours on Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

The market is also celebrating its 11^th anniversary on Thursday, March 21, with special promotions. That day is World Down Syndrome Day (WDSD), and Pathfinder will join in the global celebration that highlights the contributions of people with Down syndrome. March 21 – “3-21” – is observed as the numerical date represents the triplication of the 21st chromosome in the human genotype, the cause of 95% of occurrences of Down syndrome.

Pathfinder Produce, a microbusiness operated through the Village’s Adult Day Services, is an integrated model for improving rural health outcomes and addressing health disparities while providing gainful employment and training opportunities for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The market held its grand opening on March 21, 2013, and has been offering fresh food markets, community produce distributions, and grant-funded Mobile Market delivery services since then.

“The men and women in our Adult Day Services have grown into their roles in hosting our fresh produce market each week; they have a sense of ownership in Pathfinder Produce,” said Layla Hazlett, OTR/L, the Director & Clinical Coordinator of Adult Services. “Our produce operations encourage on-the-job leadership and skills growth and provide opportunities for individuals with disabilities to contribute to the quality of life in the community. The new market hours will increase access for busy families to buy the fresh, healthy foods they need, and they will also increase the connections between Pathfinder and the shopping public.”

A flurry of Pathfinder events to lead up to WDSD

2024-02-27T12:07:06-05:00

Edmeston, New York, February 27, 2024 … ��Ƶ will host a flurry of community events in March as a lead-up to World Down Syndrome Day on Thursday, March 21. These activities are focused on neighborly engagement and connecting globally in celebration of the talents and contributions of people with Down syndrome.

“We invite our friends and neighbors to participate in our 3-21 activities to show their support for those with Down syndrome,” said Monica Clark, Pathfinder’s Manager of Fund Development and People Engagement. “Many of us have enjoyed friendships and meaningful moments with individuals with Down syndrome, who color our lives in lasting ways. This is a fun way to show support, boost spirits, and celebrate locally.”

Details of all events may be found on ��Ƶ’s Facebook events pages. The events include:

Friday, March 1, 21 Day Challenge! ��Ƶ kicks off the month through its annual 21 Day Challenge, a series of fun, low-cost activities to complete with friends and family; details are found on Pathfinder’s social media pages. In addition, the ��Ƶ Foundation will kick off its $21 Challenge as a WDSD fundraiser through its online donations page. This year’s goal is for 321 $21 donations and peer-to-peer sharing to highlight Down syndrome awareness.

Blackwell succeeds Burleigh as Pathfinder Chaplain

2024-01-30T11:49:41-05:00

Pastoral succession continues over three decades of services
supporting people with Down syndrome

Edmeston, NY, January 23, 2024 ... The ringing of the chapel bell at ��Ƶ several weekends ago marked the transition of spiritual leadership at the nationally recognized community for people with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities. The Rev. Douglas Burleigh, Village Chaplain since 2009, introduced the congregation to their new pastor, the Rev. Ben Blackwell of West Edmeston.

“This is a wonderful place, with wonderful people who live and work here. It has been a joy to work with them, to walk with them, and to be a part of their lives for the past 14 years,” said Pastor Burleigh in recalling his service to the Village. “I leave with the joy of knowing the residents and staff who are dear to my heart.”

Burleigh, MDiv, who lives in Fly Creek, is well loved among the community members, and recently was honored as one of Pathfinder’s Community Heroes for his exemplary service in meeting residents’ spiritual needs. Burleigh is also retiring from his chaplaincy role at The Community Hospice of Albany, part of St. Peter’s Health Partners, a hospice agency that serves over 4,300 patients and their families annually in eight upstate counties.

“Spirituality has a significant role in the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. Grief and loss, as well as the opportunity to celebrate joys and achievements, and to know fellowship and love, these are very much a part of each of their lives,” added Rev. Burleigh. “It has been my privilege to minister to them around these and other needs.”

Karen Knavel named new Village CEO

2024-01-30T11:26:45-05:00

New leader is a lifetime advocate for people with intellectual disabilities, brings experience in all facets of human service organizations

Edmeston, NY, January 17, 2024 ... Karen M. Knavel of Willoughby Hills, Ohio, is the new president and chief executive officer of ��Ƶ, announced William F. Streck, MD, the chair of the Village’s Board of Directors. Ms. Knavel, the former chief executive of New Avenues to Independence, Cleveland, has held leadership roles for over 25 years at non-profit agencies that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).

��Ƶ, a nationally recognized leader in person-centered services for those with Down syndrome and other disabilities, is a livable community that offers diverse and high-quality residential, educational, vocational, health, enrichment, and other services throughout the lifespan. Ms. Knavel, 54, is the fourth person to serve in the top executive role since Pathfinder began in 1980; she succeeds Paul C. Landers, M.Ed.

In making the announcement, Dr. Streck said, “Karen combines a passion for helping and improving the lives of those with disabilities with demonstrated excellence in executive and financial leadership. ��Ƶ has been blessed with such leaders and we welcome her to the Village community to sustain and enhance that history.”

“I’m honored to join this community and thank the Board of Directors for having faith and confidence in me to lead Pathfinder in shaping our future,” said Ms. Knavel. “My passionate belief that everyone has unique gifts and talents to share informs my work daily and inspires me to continue creating possibilities for people with disabilities.”

Bell Choir to help Deck the Hall!

2023-12-05T06:54:13-05:00

COOPERSTOWN, NY … The ��Ƶ Hand Bell Choir will help the National Hall of Fame and local families ring in the holidays at the museum’s annual Holiday Celebration on Saturday, Dec. 9 at 2 p.m.

From noon through 5:00 p.m., local residents will receive free museum admission with the donation of a new, unwrapped toy or at least five non-perishable food items. The food and toys will benefit the Cooperstown Food Bank and Toys for Tots. Throughout the day visitors can experience hands-on activities and family-friendly programs.

The Village Hand Bell Choir, which has performed for many years at the Hall of Fame's holiday event, was founded in 1982 and performs at area celebrations, schools, club gatherings, and other events. The group is under the direction of Mandy Simons, the Village’s Music and Expressive Arts Specialist; they perform using a three-octave set of Schumerlich bells originally donated by regional Rotary Clubs.

Other activities at the Hall of Fame that day include viewing the current exhibits and making a holiday craft at the museum’s Learning Center.

��Ƶ is an internationally respected, livable community and services provider in upstate New York and was founded in 1980 to provide people with Down syndrome and other disabilities an independent and fulfilling lifestyle. As it works to provide quality supports for individuals with intellectual disabilities, the Village also offers highly successful educational, day services, vocational, and outreach programs. To learn more, visit pathfindervillage.org or visit our pages on the popular social media sites, Facebook and Instagram.

��Ƶ announces Community Heroes and Programs of Excellence Awards

2023-10-12T11:05:51-04:00

October 12, 2023 … ��Ƶ honored its Community Heroes and Programs of Excellence during its Family Day on Saturday, October 7. The staff of the Bassett Health Center Edmeston-Burlington, Pathfinder School, and Pastor Douglas Burleigh were recognized before gathered families, board members, and other stakeholders.

The awards acknowledge how individuals and programs have improved the lives of people with intellectual disabilities through sustained and relevant person-centered services. ��Ƶ, a livable residential community and services provider, founded in 1980, has been a leader in defining best practices in the Down syndrome field for decades.

In making the Community Heroes presentation, Mr. Landers recalled how Donald Pollock, MD and Van Ness Robinson of NYCM worked to open Bassett Healthcare Network’s first-ever community clinic in Edmeston in 1973. When it outgrew its South Street facility, the community clinic relocated to Pathfinder’s Butler House in 1990. It moved again in 2015 after Pathfinder raised funds to build a contemporary and larger facility, the William F. Streck Community Health Center. This building is named for Bassett’s past president and CEO, William F. Streck, MD, who also serves as chair of Pathfinder’s Board of Directors.

In presenting the award to Bassett staff members Theresa Scrivener, Pamela Simmons, and Bonnie Conrow, LPN, Mr. Landers said, “It's hard to describe how important it is to have the clinic here given the complex needs of our individuals: Healthcare is best administered when there is familiarity between the clinician and the patient.”

“Having this clinic here has given us a deep connection between the clinician and the patient,” he continued. “It’s the way medicine is meant to be delivered. Simply put, the health center is another tangible asset at Pathfinder that creates an environment where ‘each life may find meaning’.”