Where It All Began
Following the establishment of the first Board of Directors in 1965 and their successful campaign to recruit more than 1,001 members of the organization in 1966, the ARC (Association for Retarded Children) School and Workshop began operation.
The first school was located in the basement of Trinity Methodist Church and had 13 students between the ages of six and 12. The sheltered workshop opened in Fred Teddy’s basement with two workers.
There have been many changes, additions, expansions, and growth since the opening of the school and workshop. The name was changed to Pathfinder Services, Inc. in 1981, and now operates the offices at North Campus in Huntington and six divisions with offices, homes, facilities, and programs spread throughout Huntington, Plymouth, and Wabash.
Our Company Timeline
1966
Huntington County Association creates programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Huntington Moose Lodge holds a fundraiser with 1001 participants and generates $2000 for new progams.
1967
Village Workshop moves to Bryon School. Donald Kartepeter is named first Executive Director.
1968
Donald Kartepeter is named first Executive Director and the Village workshop moves to Bryon School.
1969
William Kruzan becomes Executive Director. Preschool services begin. Workshop and administrative offices moves to old Clear Creek School.
1976
Ground is broken on East State Street for new facility.
1979
First group home opens for ladies.
1981
Name changes to Pathfinder Services.
1984
Services began in Marshall and Starke Counties
1985
John Niederman appointed President/CEO.
1988
Community Living Services begins in Wabash County. Employment services are launched.
1990
Pathfinder Kids Kampus Opens.
1997
Homeownership program developed to strengthen homebuyers and stabilize communities.
2001
2003
Manufacturing earns ISO 9001 certification.
2008
Pathfinder HomeOwnership Center becomes chartered as a NeighborWorks America Organization.
2013
2014
Creative Abilities Art Studios Open
2016
Pathfinder Services Celebrates 50 years of services.
2020
John Niederman announces his retirement to be the end of 2020.
2020
Danielle Tips appointed President/CEO of Pathfinder Services
2020
2020
The Huntington Arts & Entrepreneurial Center serves as a hub of arts and culture, a focal point for education and empowerment
2021
