Community for all

Who We Are

We ensure life-enriching opportunities for people with disabilities by providing funding, advocacy, volunteers and education in partnership with the County of Sacramento, Regional Parks , Therapeutic Recreation Services (TRS).

Where we come from

Therapeutic Recreation Services in the County of Sacramento has been providing year-round therapeutic recreation opportunities since 1975 for children, teens & adults with mental, physical,  developmental, sensory and emotional impairments or  special needs.

In 2009, county budget cuts were threatening the foundation of TRS programming. Rather than fold under the pressure, TRS got creative, and Pathways to Recreation was incorporated as a 501(c)3 organization.

Pathways has since provided the opportunity for people and organizations that believe in the mission of TRS to donate directly, funding scholarships to keep the opportunities TRS offers accessible to all, regardless of socio-economic position.

Scholarships

Since 2009, Pathways has received donations that directly benefit TRS participants by funding scholarships. Everyone deserves a life of rich experiences and opportunities. 

Your donation helps to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, can access opportunities to learn and grow in their own community.

We want to say thank you!

Meet Your Board Members

Debbie Owens

President

Debbie is a longtime supporter of TRS. “I have seen the difference TRS makes in people’s lives to have a community where they can learn, make friends and have fun. I have witnessed, first hand, the transformation and growth in some participants. The pride in learning something new; the joy in achieving success in the kitchen or at camp, and the happiness in meeting a goal in a sport are all a part of what TRS can help provide. TRS has a very small staff that is all committed to design programs which enrich hundreds of lives. I am proud to provide my effort to Pathways to assist in increasing awareness and raising money in order to fund TRS programs and participant scholarships.”

Debbie joined the Pathways Board to serve as president after having served on several non-profit Boards in a variety of roles, including President of the National Costumers Association for many years. 

Cathi Aurich

Vice President

Cathi grew up around people with disabilities, supporting her brother who has been a Special Olympics athlete and TRS participant for most of his life! Cathi has served on the Pathways board since 2019, serving in many roles including fundraising committee member, securing donations, and now as Vice President. 

She has also been a part of TRS in many roles for close to 30 years, including coaching the Sac County Chargers for decades and volunteers regularly for TRS programs. 

Amy Durnell

Secretary

Amy became part of the Pathways to Recreation board after returning to coach for the Sac County Chargers, looking for an additional way to support TRS. Amy was a TRS staff member many years ago, leaving to become a teacher and raise her two children. She has continued to be a coach for the Chargers for well over 20 years! She willingly accepted the role of Secretary, and has also been a part of Pathways fundraising events.

Kathy Bussey

Treasurer

Kathy joined the Pathways board in 2018 after her daughter joined the Sac County Chargers sports training team, and began participating in TRS programs. Kathy herself has served on other non-profit boards in the past, and then joined the Chargers as a coach. She was then quickly convinced to join the Pathways board to further her level of support. Throughout her time on the board, Kathy has served on fundraising committees for various opportunities, worked with tax preparers and other officials to keep our operations financially healthy while ensuring compliance with financial regulations, and tackled overseeing the Pathways budget. 

Morris Walsh

Morris is a family member of a TRS participant and supporter of TRS. He also owns his own contracting business as well as being an avid golfer!

Kyle Caler

Kyle is an Associate Professor of Social Work at CSUS with a focus on disability studies and research. He grew up as a sibling to a lifelong Special Olympics participant and learned the value of these opportunities through volunteering alongside them.