PathWays of Southwestern Pennsylvania provides services that support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and autism as they live meaningful, self-directed lives within their communities, serving individuals throughout Allegheny, Fayette, Greene, Lawrence, Washington, and Westmoreland Counties. PathWays partners with individuals and families to deliver services that reflect personal choice, dignity, and everyday life.

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Through programs such as the Adult Training Facility, Residential Services, and Agency With Choice, PathWays offers a continuum of support that addresses daily living, skill development, social engagement, and meaningful participation in the community. These services work together to provide consistency while allowing individuals to shape their own paths forward.

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Adult Services and Agency With Choice are built on the understanding that no two individuals experience adulthood in the same way. Supports must be flexible, responsive, and grounded in respect for each individual’s preferences, routines, and goals. At PathWays, services are designed to meet individuals where they are while supporting growth, independence, and community connection over time.

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Daily routines play an important role in adult life. From morning preparation to planning for the day ahead, consistent and respectful support can shape how individuals experience independence and confidence. PathWays Adult Services and Agency With Choice emphasize individualized support that honors personal routines and preferences. Whether support is provided in the home or through community-based services, the focus remains on helping individuals participate in their daily lives in ways that feel comfortable and familiar.

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Agency With Choice offers a variety of services to meet the needs of all individuals.  In home and community supports helps individuals live more independently at home and participate in their community.  Companion services help individuals participate more fully and meaningfully in home and community life.  Supported Employment is designed to ensure access to meaningful employment for individuals in IDD and Autism.  Respite services support individuals when the primary caregiver is unavailable.  Homemaker and Chore services assist the individual with keeping their home clean and safe to live in with the primary caregiver isn’t able to.  Supports broker services enhance natural suports and assist in future planning for the individual.  Vendor services include things like home adaptations, vehicle adaptations, educational support, assistive technology, specialized supplies, interpreter services, and transportation.

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Agency With Choice is available to individuals of any age with a Home and Community-Based Services Waiver from the Office of Developmental Programs and is frequently used by adults who value flexibility and involvement in decision-making. Supports are shaped around personal routines, communication styles, and goals, rather than predetermined schedules or structures. As needs and circumstances change, Agency With Choice services can adapt. This flexibility ensures that supports remain relevant and responsive over time, reinforcing independence and personal agency.

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The Agency With Choice service model allows individuals to play an active role in directing their own supports while partnering with PathWays for administrative and programmatic guidance. Through Agency With Choice, individuals may select their own Support Service Professionals (SSPs), including trusted family members or community members. This model supports continuity, trust, and consistency while allowing individuals to maintain greater control over how services are delivered.

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Through Agency With Choice, Support Service Professionals (SSPs) work alongside individuals to assist with tasks such as personal care, meal preparation, transportation, and planning daily activities. Assistance is provided at a pace that respects the individual while encouraging independence and skill development. These everyday supports help individuals feel prepared and confident as they move through their day, whether they are heading to a program, engaging in community activities, or returning home in the evening.

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The PathWays Adult Training Facility provides a structured, supportive environment where adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities can spend their day engaged in meaningful activities alongside peers. The Adult Training Facility offers opportunities for social connection, skill development, and routine. Individuals participate in activities that support creativity, physical movement, and personal interests while building relationships with others.

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A predictable daily structure helps provide stability and comfort, while flexibility within the program allows individuals to engage in activities that align with their preferences and abilities. Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) work closely with individuals to ensure activities remain accessible and engaging.

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Meaningful relationships are a vital part of adult life. Adult Services at PathWays place a strong emphasis on social connection and community belonging. For many individuals, the Adult Training Facility provides an important sense of belonging. Spending time with peers, participating in shared experiences, and maintaining daily routines contribute to emotional well-being and confidence.

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Within the Adult Training Facility and across other Adult Services, individuals have opportunities to build friendships, strengthen communication skills, and engage in shared activities. These interactions support emotional growth and help individuals feel connected to others.

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Direct Support Professionals play a key role in fostering positive social experiences. By encouraging participation and supporting respectful interactions, staff help create environments where individuals feel comfortable and included. Relationships formed through Adult Services often extend beyond structured programs, contributing to long-term connection and community engagement.

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Engaging with our community is central to PathWays. Individuals are supported as active participants in their communities, engaging in experiences that reflect their interests and values. Community-based activities may include volunteering, attending local events, visiting community spaces, or participating in service opportunities. These experiences help individuals build confidence while contributing to the community around them.

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Volunteer opportunities, such as supporting local organizations or food banks, allow individuals to give back while developing practical skills and a sense of purpose. Participation is guided by individual comfort levels and preferences, ensuring experiences remain positive and meaningful. Direct Support Professionals provide guidance and encouragement while promoting independence. Community experiences are carefully planned to support safety, inclusion, and personal growth.

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PathWays’ Residential Program supports adults who choose to live in community-based homes. These services are designed to promote independence while ensuring individuals have access to the support they need. Residential supports are individualized and reflect each person’s routines, preferences, and goals. Assistance may include daily living skills, household responsibilities, and coordination with other services. This integrated approach helps individuals experience consistency while moving between home, programs, and community activities. The goal of Residential Services is to support individuals in creating homes that feel stable, welcoming, and reflective of their personal lives.

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Direct Support Professionals are essential to the success of Adult Services at PathWays of Southwestern Pennsylvania. Direct Support Professionals provide consistent, respectful support while building strong relationships with the individuals they serve. Direct Support Professionals assist individuals with daily routines, participation in activities, and community engagement. Their work requires patience, adaptability, and a deep respect for individual choice. Through steady support and encouragement, Direct Support Professionals help individuals feel confident and supported in their everyday experiences.

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PathWays is committed to supporting its employees through training, collaboration, and ongoing guidance. Staff receive instruction that prepares them for their roles and helps them respond effectively to individual needs. Including certification through the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP).

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Ongoing support and communication are central to the workplace culture. Team members are encouraged to share insights, ask questions, and work collaboratively to provide consistent, high-quality support. By investing in staff development, PathWays strengthens it’s services and supports positive outcomes for both employees and the individuals they serve.

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Careers at PathWays offer the opportunity to do meaningful work while supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism. Employees play an important role in helping individuals live fulfilling, connected lives.

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PathWays is currently hiring for positions within the Residential Program and the Adult Training Facility. These positions offer hands-on experience and the opportunity to build strong relationships. While experience in the field is helpful, it is not required. PathWays provides training and ongoing support to help employees grow and succeed. Individuals who are compassionate, dependable, and interested in supporting others are encouraged to apply. Working at PathWays allows employees to be part of a mission-driven organization that values respect, collaboration, and shared purpose.

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Consistency is a cornerstone of effective services. Individuals benefit from stable routines, familiar staff, and predictable environments. PathWays prioritizes continuity across services to support confidence and emotional well-being. Trust is built through respectful interactions and reliable support. By maintaining consistent relationships, PathWays helps individuals feel secure as they navigate daily life. These values are reflected across all Adult Services and Agency With Choice, from residential supports to community-based programs.

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Services at PathWays are guided by person-centered values that place the individual’s voice at the center of all decisions. Supports are developed collaboratively and adjusted as needs and goals evolve. Individuals are encouraged to participate in planning and decision-making, reinforcing independence and self-direction. This approach ensures services remain relevant and meaningful over time. By honoring individuality and choice, PathWays supports adults in shaping lives that reflect their values and aspirations.

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Agency With Choice and Adult Services at PathWays of Southwestern Pennsylvania support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they live full, connected lives within their communities. Through individualized support, community involvement, and meaningful relationships, PathWays continues to support individuals and families as they navigate life with confidence and dignity.

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To learn more about PathWays services or explore employment opportunities, visit yourpathways.org.