CEO Message

From Paul C. Landers, Chief Executive Officer

Greetings from Pathfinder Village!  It is such an honor to be back with this wonderful organization, and I am eager to work on behalf of the Village and its residents who live with Down syndrome.

I have worked for 25 years in the developmental disabilities field, serving at extraordinary agencies that have set the standard in residential care.  Most recently, I was part of a project in Memphis, helping families build an organization for their loved ones who were transitioning from a large state developmental center to community living.  Through building 30 homes and starting a day program, we greatly improved the quality of life for these individuals and their families.  I will always hold this experience dear to my heart.

While in Memphis, I always hoped to return to Pathfinder Village, which presents a unique opportunity to support people who have Down syndrome in a setting reminiscent of my native New England.  Now that I have returned, I am pleased to report that programs have evolved so residents have greater autonomy, and staff training has become a top priority. Dr. Shafer provided sound leadership and I am grateful for what he has done for this community.  He initiated a series of planning exercises with Village ‘stakeholders’ to determine how best to move forward as a community. Using this information, I will work with the Board and leadership team to have a strategic vision in place by 2010.  This information will be shared with the entire Pathfinder community.

As I was having dinner in one of our Village  homes recently, I was struck with how our children had grown into mature young adults.  Each person shared stories about working in the community, the latest recipe they’d prepared, or the bell choir’s recent trip to the State Fair.  Before I’d finished my meal, these motivated youngsters assumed “dishwasher detail” and other duties, and were off to evening activities.  As I made my way back through the Village, I was greeted by groups of older adults who were enjoying walks around the residential square.  As I joined them, it wasn’t long before I was reminded about how the Village continues to be a place “where each life has meaning.”

Inspirational moments like these happen every day at Pathfinder Village.  It is the efforts of many that allow us to continue to offer innovative programs and quality services that help each person reach his potential.  You are part of this mission and I want to thank you for your support and encouragement.  

I am grateful that my career path has led me once more to Pathfinder Village, and I am ready to “roll up my shirt sleeves” and work with you in the months ahead.  I look forward to speaking with you, hearing your ideas, and building upon the great foundations that have been established.

All my best,

Paul C. Landers
Chief Executive Officer
Pathfinder Village