Pathfinder Village

Pathfinder Village, Edmeston, Otsego Co., NY is a remarkable livable community that serves the needs of people who have Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities. With innovative residential, educational, vocational, and enrichment programs, Pathfinder offers a rich lifestyle emphasizing learning, friendships, and independence. The Village serves 90+ residents and students with diverse backgrounds and talents. Through family involvement, community support, and caring staff, individuals are encouraged to maintain healthy lifestyles and embrace new activities. The community comes to Pathfinder through a market, a bakery/cafe, workshops, events, and concerts. We also offer Camp Pathfinder, a summer camp for young adults who want to experience life in our welcoming setting. Pathfinder Village also offers a two-year youth transitions program, Otsego Academy, for young adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities. Learn more at otsegoacademy.org. A key part of Pathfinder is our service to the greater community. The Kennedy Willis Center at Pathfinder Village has a three-fold mission: to provide continuing education for families and the community at large regarding best practices in supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, to serve as an information & life planning resource for families who have a family member with a developmental disability, and to host and conduct research related to Down syndrome and developmental disabilities. The Village is led by CEO Karen Knavel (kknavel@pathfindervillage.org) and is governed by a Board of Directors chaired by William F. Streck, MD, the past President & CEO of Bassett Healthcare. Fundraising initiatives are led by the Pathfinder Village Foundation, chaired by Victoria Johnson, RN. Annual fundraisers include the Pathfinder Village-Hall of Fame Golf Invitational, the Pathfinder Village Tennis Classic, and the signature Splash Path 5K and Festival, which supports community health projects.