Many years ago, during the era of segregation, our 98-year-old building (formerly) the West End Elementary School symbolized resilience, strength, and the unyielding pursuit of knowledge in the face of adversity. As the years passed, the dark cloud of segregation gradually lifted. Fate had a different plan in store for the former school. 

A visionary group of business, church, government, nonprofit, and community leaders met to create a solution for people in poverty facing transportation and navigational barriers to care. The Board designed a systematic solution to align resources, data, and service agencies to address the gaps in essential services while creating one-stop access for people in need. 

 

By 2017, a Board of Directors formed and rallied support from community members, local organizations, and volunteers. In November 2018, Pathways Community Center Inc. became incorporated, and the Board began looking for buildings for sale. They recognized the potential of the 98-year-old West End Elementary School, a 40,000 sq. ft. building, to serve as a beacon of hope for the community. Together, they breathed life back into the building, pouring their hearts and souls into its revival. The building's transformation reflected the transformative journey of the town itself. Through compassion, education, and unity, the wounds of the past were healed, and a brighter future was envisioned.
 

In September 2019, Pathways doors opened to the public. During that time, the Board of Directors cultivated relationships amongst a network of existing service agencies to operate on-site while collaborating with other health and human service providers. The once-segregated school emerged as a beautifully renovated Community Center, radiating warmth, acceptance, and inclusivity.

 

As years went by, Pathways continued to evolve, adapting to the community's changing needs. The Center is a place for people to safely enter, meet with Pathways' Intake Specialist to identify needs, and receive referrals to appropriate service agencies. Pathways’ unique model: improves coordination of services, reduces duplication of efforts, helps clients access a broader range of resources, improves health outcomes, increases employability and financial stability, provides better housing and living conditions, reduces social isolation, empowers and enhances the sense of community, and supports long-term sustainability.

Pathways stands as a testament to the values that guided its creation: the belief that every person has the right to thrive and succeed, regardless of their background. The building is a sanctuary of hope, understanding, and opportunities for personal and professional growth while embodying the spirit of positive change that uplifts the community.

​

​

 

 

 

 

 

​

​

Intake & Referrals: 

• Our specialists provide essential guidance, helping clients navigate various resources efficiently. They conduct thorough assessments and make real-time referrals to appropriate services, ensuring clients receive the necessary support. By tracking outcomes, we continuously refine our collaboration with providers, benefiting our Continuum of Care agencies and clients seeking self-sufficiency.

 

Facilities:

• Maintenance and Improvements: We offer partner agencies below-market rental space, reducing operational costs and allowing them to focus on client services. Ongoing maintenance and upgrades are required for accessibility and dignity for all in our 98-year-old facility. 

 

24/7 Security 365 Days a Year:

• Ensuring safety is a cornerstone of our operations, especially vital as we shelter many clients transitioning from insecure environments.
   

Network Hub: Fostering Collaboration:

• Pathways is a network hub, bringing together different organizations to work towards the common goal of self-sufficiency.

​