On April 9, 1964, a small group of parents and several area professionals met to discuss the future of their children with developmental disabilities. These parents wanted the same educational opportunities for their children as everyone else. However, due to the children’s intellectual deficit, there were no classes available in the public school system.

June 15, 1964 began the first Program at Jefferson School, a 5-Week Summer Session under the direction of William Walsh, a teacher of educable mentally handicapped students in School District #117. The budget was $575.

Parents desire for their child to have an educational experience in a trainable class was their ultimate goal. Thus began the formation of alliance of parents to start their own school — Pathway School.

Due to the growth of students, on September 28, 1964, classes continued, but in the educational room at Lincoln Avenue Baptist Church. Funding was awarded by the Department of Mental Health. The first Director, Pat Rooker, was hired on September 10, 1964.

AMBUCS Annual Donation 1964 To Present

Initially 17 children were enrolled in services at the school.

In June 1965, Ivan Garrison, Director of Special Services for District #117, announced the beginning of a new TMH program at Pathway beginning in September 1965. At the 1965 Christmas Party, sixty-five individuals were in attendance. It quickly became apparent that additional space would be required.

By September 1967, the Pathway School and Administrative Offices moved to the Congregational Church for additional space.

Lunch was prepared and served “family-style”. Individuals help with setting the table, beverages and clean up.  

Starting in February 1968, Glenda Hooker provided Physical Therapy services.

November 1969 Workshop Opportunities added to Day Programming

Fall 1976 — Moved into new building 767 South West Dedication / Open House — November 21, 1976

April 1981, JAARC opened the first of two (2) residential homes for individuals with developmental disabilities. Today in 2020, Pathway Services operates ten (10) homes in Jacksonville, IL, and one (1) home in Springfield, IL. An opportunity for individuals to be a part of a neighborhood and citizens of the community.

Honoring 10 years of employment at our local college – IC Dining Hall

Musical Practice “That’s What America Means to Me”

JAARC celebrates its 25 years in operation. Current directors include Pat Rooker, Michael Hurt, Mary Riemann, Tim Monahan, Nancy Mawson and Becky McGinnis.

Organized in 1990, the Chime Choir provided the opportunity for a new challenge for the individuals to develop new skills, increase their attention, commitment, responsibility and community interaction.

Early 2011 Pathway purchased the former Kmart building at 1905 West Morton and renovations began later that year. On September 13, 2012, we moved off the campus of the Jacksonville Developmental Center into our new location. With the remaining unused space of the 100,000 square foot building, Pathway leased to Rudi’s Grill and Dunhams Sports. […]