Beth Transitions to a New Community

“Pathways has been a stepping stone to a lot of other things.”

Allaina Develops Independence

Allaina is now proud to say “Now, I talk to everyone. Sometimes I’ll voluntarily ask for someone’s number – I never used to do that.”

Brian Learns to Read Social Cues

Brian has developed a social network, learned to recognize social cues and improved his phone etiquette.

Susie Develops Essential Skills

“I feel more comfortable starting a conversation and asking people questions.”

Maria Builds Confidence

“I’m much more outgoing that I used to be and I want to continue to open up around people I don’t know as well.”

Philip Joins his Community!

“I always walk up to the Seven Eleven near my house, and lately, I feel much more comfortable talking to the cashiers and getting to know them better.”

Lydia Expands her Social Circle

“The staff is very supportive and understanding.”

Matthew Speaks about his experience with PTI

“Pathways has given me the tools to achieve my goals.”

Chris Delivers a Speech on Beginning his Career

“Since I joined PTI I have a much fuller life.”

Ashley and Crystal: Both Skills and Friendship Blossom

“PTI is not just for the participants, it is good for the whole community. PTI advocates for people with disabilities and helps us show the public that we can contribute too.”

Three Years, Three Amigos

“I’ve learned to be more open to people and I don’t isolate myself as much.” -Stuart

PTI Partners with Mers Goodwill Industries

“Pathways is able to provide a service for our clients that helps to enhance their successful outcomes in their employment settings.”

PTI and St. Louis Arc Partner on Mindfulness Programs

“I’m a lot calmer and I’ve gained confidence.” -Tatum

PTI Partners with the Center for Hearing and Speech for Social College

“The partnership creates the best environment for participants to learn and use communication skills.”

Ben Discovers his Path to Success with PTI's GAP Services

“Pathways to Independence provides a structure for me.”

PTI Opens Inspiration Point!

Click “Read More” to learn about our new space, Inspiration Point, and our new programming and services we offer!

Christy Embraces her Asperger's Diagnosis

“My ability to participate in conversations and initiate them has improved tremendously.”

Jeff Improves Independence through Coaching

The PTI staff “are always respectful and willing to give me tips on how to be polite in certain situations.”

Safety National Corporation Steps up to the Plate for Pathways

Learn how Safety National has supported PTI over the years.

Blake Applies the Skills he's Learned Through PTI

“I feel like I’m able to connect with people better.”

Carrie Makes Friends and Accomplishes her Goals!

“The staff always helped me with getting to know people and making friends.”

Bruce Finds a Place Where he Belongs

For Bruce, Pathways to Independence provides that sense of purpose and a place to belong, where, he says, “I feel normal.”

Sky Explores the World Around Her

“Sky sees the world as a much more inviting and interesting place because of the things she’s done with Pathways.”

Paul Conquers Challenges

“Pathways has taught me not to be afraid of the outside world.”

Shannon's Discovers her Interests and Develops Confidence

“I woke up when I joined Pathways…It’s easier to go do things on my own; I have more confidence in myself.”

Daniel Opens Up

“Pathways has helped me be more open with my family and friends.” Click “read more” to learn more about Daniel and his experience with Pathways to Independence!

Chris Develops his Network of Friends

“I used to just stay home in my room. Since I joined PTI, I’ve been going out, doing activities and making more friends.”

Leigh Shines in Social Situations and Excels in her Career

Learn about how Leigh has improved her social skills, developed her hobbies and succeeded in her career!

Andy

“I stay on topic better and I can keep a conversation going longer. I’ve learned to find out what interests other people.”

Amanda

“I feel like I’m more independent and outgoing; I know how to handle situations now.”

Pathways to Independence Impact Video

Click “Read more” to watch the video!

Home

Since 1987, Pathways to Independence (PTI) has been helping adults with complex learning disabilities, specific forms of autism and associated disorders that impact their social abilities. Our innovative programming supports clients as they discover new levels of confidence while connecting with friends and their communities. We help our participants set goals and challenge themselves to reach for their full potential.

Social Focus

The Social Focus program works with participants in approximately a 1:4 staff to participant ratio, usually two staff with eight participants. This can include staff-planned events or participants can take the lead a plan a social activity of their own with staff support.

Social College

Social College features multi-session group education events, inspired by challenges that our clients frequently face, that provide the opportunity to fine tune their skills in a supportive environment.

Social Growth

The Social Growth program gives our clients the opportunity to see their community in exciting new ways while building their network of social supports in larger groups.

Pathways to Independence (PTI) relies upon the generous support of the public to fund our operations. Thank you in advance for your support!

Partially Funded By

Spotlight

Christy Embraces her Asperger’s Diagnosis

Christy (front, right) at a PTI small group event Christy has the somewhat unique experience of being diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome (AS), a form of autism, in her 30’s. She says the diagnosis has “empowered me to
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