Laurens City proclaims Disabilities Awareness Month; Pathwise (formerly local disabilities board) announces rebrand and service expansion

The Laurens City Council on March 17 issued a proclamation recognizing March as Disabilities Awareness Month and invited Terry Glenn of the former Lawrence County Disabilities and Special Needs Board — now branded Pathwise — to address the council.

Terry Glenn told the council Pathwise offers early-intervention services (ages 0–3, the 'Building Dreams' program), programs for ages 3–5, case management for all ages and residential programs across Laurens County and neighboring counties. She said Pathwise now employs 38 individuals in competitive employment across the region and is adding occupational and speech therapy services directly through the agency. "New name, same great services," Glenn said, explaining the rebrand reflects the agency's goal of meeting each person "on their path."

Mayor (chairing the meeting) presented a proclamation and small tokens of appreciation to Pathwise and thanked the agency for its community partnership. The mayor noted the council's ongoing relationship with the agency and emphasized that the city and Pathwise are working to improve accessibility in city programming and facilities.

The council and the agency highlighted that Pathwise serves Laurens County, Newberry County, Greenwood County and areas up toward Fountain; Glenn said the agency maintains about 110 residential placements and is expanding employment supports. She also said Pathwise recently announced the new name and invited council members to take informational materials.

The proclamation and remarks were ceremonial; no formal action or funding changes were made at the meeting. The council closed the item after presenting the proclamation and thanking Glenn for the update.