New Name, Renewed Vision: Laurens County Disabilities and Special Needs Board Becomes “Pathwise”

The Laurens County Disabilities and Special Needs Board marked a major milestone at its 2026 Annual Community Breakfast—celebrating its legacy of service while unveiling a new name and vision for the future: Pathwise.

Held at the newly renovated Laurens County Ag Center, the annual breakfast brought together community leaders, partners, board members, and supporters for a morning focused on impact, growth, and the people at the heart of the agency’s mission.

Board Chair Courtney Snow opened the event, followed by a prayer from William Moore and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Reggie Catlin—one of the individuals served by the agency whose personal journey reflects the organization’s mission in action.

Throughout the program, attendees were reminded that the agency’s work goes far beyond statistics. While the organization currently serves hundreds across Laurens, Greenwood, Abbeville, and Newberry counties—with residential services supporting 105 individuals, case management assisting 440 people, and early intervention services reaching young children—the true impact is best seen through personal stories.

 Regge Catlin

One such story shared during the breakfast highlighted Reggie Catlin’s progress since joining the program in 2022. Initially nonverbal, Reggie has since developed the ability to communicate, recognize numbers, sing songs, and even lead the Pledge of Allegiance—demonstrating the life-changing outcomes made possible through dedicated care and support.

Another powerful example shared was Emily, who achieved a personal milestone by preparing and bringing a homemade dish to her family’s Thanksgiving gathering for the first time—an accomplishment symbolizing independence, confidence, and belonging.

Emily

“These moments are what our mission is all about,” leadership shared. “Supporting unique people in pursuing opportunities while reaching for a better tomorrow.”

The agency also highlighted several forward-looking initiatives, including:

• A new partnership with the South Carolina Assistive Technology Center, bringing a regional resource center to the Evergreen Campus in April 2026
• Expansion of therapy services, including occupational therapy and the upcoming addition of speech therapy
• Continued development of ABA therapy services
• Growth in community-based employment and day programs

These initiatives reflect a commitment not only to maintaining strong services, but to expanding opportunities for independence and inclusion.

The morning also included the presentation of the Von Sinclair Award for Advocacy and Service—named after the agency’s first executive director and presented annually to an individual or group exemplifying dedication to those with lifelong disabilities. This year’s recipient was Dr Moni Keen, Director

Dr Moni Keen, Director of the Occupational Therapy Doctoral program at Presbyterian College.

of the Occupational Therapy Doctoral program at Presbyterian College.

As the program concluded, Executive Director Jason Tavenner shared a message of both gratitude and vision—thanking community partners, staff, and attendees while emphasizing that the organization is building on more than 50 years of trusted service.

The unveiling of the name Pathwise marked a defining moment.

The new name reflects the agency’s focus on guiding individuals along meaningful paths—toward employment, independence, belonging, and purpose—while remaining a dependable community partner.

As Laurens County looks ahead, Pathwise stands ready to continue its mission: faithful to its roots, proven in its service, and progressive in its vision for the future.