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Pathways to Independence

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Pathways to Independence: Building Access, Building Lives

When you think about independence, what comes to mind? For many of us, it’s the freedom to come and go from our homes, the ability to visit with friends and family, or the simple dignity of handling everyday tasks without relying on others. But for individuals living with mobility challenges, these basic freedoms are often limited by something as simple as a single step at their front door.

That’s where our Pathways to Independence Program steps in. This program is designed to provide safe, reliable wheelchair ramps for individuals and families in need. It’s more than just a construction project—it’s about opening doors to opportunity, safety, and independence.

Why This Program Matters

Accessibility is not just a convenience; it’s a necessity. Without a ramp, many people are effectively trapped in their own homes. They may struggle to attend medical appointments, get groceries, or even enjoy the outdoors. Emergencies can become life-threatening if someone cannot exit their home quickly.

The Pathways to Independence Program addresses these challenges head-on. By building ramps, we provide immediate and lasting solutions that drastically improve quality of life. Each ramp is a pathway to freedom, empowering people to live more fully and independently.

Who It Helps

Our program primarily supports seniors, individuals with disabilities, and families facing unexpected health challenges. Many of the people we serve are on fixed incomes and simply cannot afford the cost of a professionally built ramp. For them, this program isn’t just helpful—it’s life-changing.

Imagine a grandmother who can now attend her granddaughter’s school play, a veteran who can safely enter and exit his home without assistance, or a child who can finally play outside with friends because a ramp makes it possible. These are not just projects; they are stories of restored independence, safety, and dignity.

The Impact

Every ramp built through the Pathways to Independence Program has a ripple effect. It helps the individual, yes, but it also brings peace of mind to families, caregivers, and neighbors. Loved ones can rest easier knowing their family member is safe, secure, and able to participate more fully in daily life.

How to Get a Ramp

If you or someone you know is in need of a wheelchair ramp, please don’t hesitate to call us at (740) 439-0020. Our Mobility Manager would be more than happy to help get you started. The first step is completing a short intake form with your name, address, age, and the area where you’d like your ramp (front porch, back porch, or side porch). Next, our crew will come to your home to take measurements and photos. They’ll bring that information back to our office, and together we’ll go over the details of what kind of ramp is needed, ordering materials, and moving forward with the process. Please keep in mind that this is not an immediate outcome—sometimes there is a waiting list, and you may have to wait your turn. However, we make sure to keep you updated throughout the entire process. We understand the urgency of needing a ramp installed and do our very best to assist every person we can in a timely manner.

How to Donate

If you would like to support the Pathways to Independence Program, there are several ways to donate. You can make checks payable to Guernsey County CDC and be sure to write Ramps in the memo line. If you would like to be recognized and thanked on our Facebook page for your generosity, please also include your name or business. You can also donate securely online by visiting www.guernseycountycdc.com, clicking on DONATE, selecting your amount, and writing “Ramps” in the memo section along with your name or business. Any donation amount is welcomed and greatly appreciated. Checks may also be mailed to PO Box 1175, Cambridge, Ohio 43725—just remember to write Ramps in the memo line so we know your gift is designated for this program.

When you give, you’re not just helping build a ramp—you’re helping build a stronger, more connected community. The Pathways to Independence Program thrives because neighbors, businesses, and local supporters come together to rally behind individuals in need. That sense of community is powerful, and every contribution—whether large or small—makes a real difference in someone’s life.

Final Thoughts

The Pathways to Independence Program is about more than ramps—it’s about restoring freedom, dignity, and safety. Together, we can break down barriers and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to live with independence.

 

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New story walk trail has been installed!

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Our new story walk inserts have been installed yesterday on the The Great Guernsey Trail. This is a fun and exciting way to increase reading and outdoor recreation for young children. The best part? The story will change every so often! That way it stays new and exciting.
The story starts at the Corduroy Rd. Trailhead and extends to the .5 mile marker. Next year we will be installing a story walk trail on the Lore City end of the trail.
This project is a collaboration between the Guernsey County District Public Library the Friends of the Guernsey County Library and The Guernsey County Community Development.

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Celebrating 30 years of making Guernsey County a Great Place to Live and Work

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July marks The Guernsey County Community Development’s anniversary month. Thirty years ago, on July 31, our original articles of incorporation were filed as the Byesville Area Community Development Corporation. Since that initial filing our name and our focus has changed, but our goal hasn’t, which is to make Guernsey County a great place to live and work.

I have been a part of this organization since 2013, and I have been the executive director since 2015. I have experienced tremendous amount of growth during my tenure as an employee and then as the director. Not only has my organization grown, but I too have grown and changed as a person and a leader. My passion for helping people and my county has become my single-minded focus, and I strive to instill that passion into the people that I employ.

Because I have been here for over a decade, I can attest to our trials and errors when implementing programs and projects. Some work. Some don’t. But the point is that we at least try. Failure is not fatal, and success is not permanent. We continue to grow, we continue to help others, and we continue to try to be one of the best things about Guernsey County.

People will often ask me what we do at the CDC. I joke that it would be quicker to tell people what we don’t do. But what we do is vital in the growth of our community. Since we are approaching the 30th anniversary of our founding, I believe it is important for people to know about our projects and programs:

  • Built and maintain the Great Guernsey Trail, a 7 mile paved walking trail that runs from Cambridge to Lore City.
  • Own and care for over 3,000 acres of greenspace land in Guernsey and Belmont counties for the purpose of habitat preservation and recreation.
  • Employ 8 individuals to provide transportation for disabled veterans and for individuals that lack reliable transportation for the purposes of medical appointments, work, recreational reasons, etc. This is done in partnership with SEAT.
  • Own and manage 23 residential properties as part of our affordable rental programs. Our rent peaks at $600 and most of our units range from $375 to $550.
  • Own and manage 8 commercial properties as part of our low rent, business development program which currently provides space for 7 businesses.
  • Provide paid work training through our workforce development programs for low-come adults, at risk young people, and individuals going through substance use disorder recovery. These programs currently employ 13 individuals across all three programs.
    • Through these programs we have helped 67 people find permanent employment with area employers.
  • Promote tourism by running three races, such as a half-marathon and 10k, 5k, etc. which bring in over 1,000 people during a calendar year.
  • Own and maintain Coal Ridge Park and Trails.
  • Own and maintain Boyd’s Bottom Open Space and Trails system.
  • Own and maintain Shon Lenzo Nature Space and Bobcat Disc Golf Course.
  • Work with the Guernsey County Sheriff’s office and local governments to clean up and remove illegal dumps.
  • Manage countywide litter cleanups which have disposed of 60,052 illegally dumped tires, picked up 7,624 bags of litter, and removed 500+ tons of illegally dumped items (furniture, trash, etc.).
  • Remove log jams and stream debris for the purpose of ensuring a healthy watershed and to prevent flooding.
  • Hang and care for the flags on Wheeling Ave.
  • Applied for and received $4.7 million to extend and connect the Great Guernsey Trail to downtown Cambridge. This is part of the $7,939,171 in grant dollars that we have brought into the county since I became director in 2015.
  • Provide affordable mowing services for small townships and communities that have small operating budgets. This allows those townships and communities to invest their limited revenue into other areas of need.
  • Install ramps for individuals with mobility barriers.
  • We own and are currently rehabbing St. Luke’s (Fletcher Chapel) which is an important historical building.
  • Built and maintain the Trailside Skate Park, which provides skating enthusiasts a safe place to practice their sport.
  • Actively restoring acres of negatively impacted wetlands.
  • Partnered with local townships and villages to apply for Ohio Nature Works Grants to improve playground facilities.
  • Implemented and operates a curbside recycling program.

As you can see our operations span a variety of critical need areas, but each one is designed with specific goals in mind and to ensure a great quality of life for our area residents.

We will continue through the month of July by positing images and stories on our Facebook (so make sure you like and follow our page) and I hope you will follow us on this month long journey as we celebrate 30 years of making Guernsey County a great place to live and work.

 

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Four Interpretive Signs Installed on the Great Guernsey Trail

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Thanks to an anonymous donation of $4,000 and a $5,000 grant from John W. and Edna McManus Shepard Fund, the CDC has been able to install four interpretive signs on the Great Guernsey Trail. 
 
The first sign on the trail (heading east from Cambridge) 
describes the importance of wetlands and is located between the 0.5 and 1 mile markers.
 
The second sign details varies plants that support pollinators and is located near the butterfly trail right before the 1.5 mile marker.
 
The third sign details how our stream ecosystem is the “roadways of the natural world,” and is located about halfway between the Deerfield Rd. crossing and the Lore City Bridge. 
 
The final sign describes the importance of lowland forest and is located between the Lore City bridge and Lore City. 
 

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The Importance of Mobility Management: Ensuring Access to Care, Work, and Independence for Veterans, Seniors, and Individuals with Developmental Disabilities

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Transportation is an essential part of daily life, but for many veterans, seniors, and individuals with developmental disabilities, getting from one place to another can be a significant challenge. Whether it’s for medical appointments, grocery shopping, work, or attending social gatherings, reliable transportation is crucial to maintaining independence, dignity, and access to necessary services. This is where mobility management becomes an indispensable solution.

Mobility Management: A Lifeline for Veterans, Seniors, and Individuals with Developmental Disabilities

Veterans, who have sacrificed so much for their country, often face unique challenges as they transition back to civilian life. For some, physical disabilities, mental health conditions, or financial limitations make it difficult to access essential services. Mobility management programs that offer free transportation can help ensure that veterans get to their medical appointments, therapy sessions, work, and any other crucial services they may need. By offering veterans a safe and reliable way to travel, we honor their service and ensure they have the support they deserve.

Seniors often face challenges such as reduced mobility, vision or hearing impairments, or simply a lack of access to private transportation. Many seniors live in areas with limited public transportation options or may no longer feel confident driving themselves. As they age, the need for regular trips to medical appointments, including doctor visits, physical therapy, or even grocery runs, becomes more pressing. Without adequate transportation, seniors risk missing important medical treatments or social engagements, leading to deteriorating health and isolation.

Individuals with developmental disabilities also face unique barriers when it comes to transportation. For these individuals, the ability to attend medical appointments, participate in social activities, or go to work often depends on the availability of reliable, specialized transportation. Many with developmental disabilities require additional support, such as door-to-door services, assistance with mobility aids, or drivers trained to meet their specific needs. Additionally, transportation to and from work is crucial for many individuals with developmental disabilities who are working hard to gain independence and contribute to their communities. Without access to this type of assistance, they risk missing out on vital opportunities for healthcare, education, employment, and social interaction.

Raising Awareness of Transportation Needs

While mobility management services that provide free transportation to veterans, seniors, and individuals with developmental disabilities are available, many individuals who would benefit from these services remain unaware. I need your help to raise awareness about these critical transportation needs.

It’s crucial to help veterans, seniors, individuals with developmental disabilities, and their families understand that transportation doesn’t have to be a barrier to accessing care, employment, or living independently. If your organization would like to join forces with Mobility Management to assist individuals with transportation needs, please contact me so we can collaborate and work together to make a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.

Increasing Understanding of Transportation Needs

Transportation needs go beyond just getting from one place to another. For many veterans, seniors, and individuals with developmental disabilities, the right transportation means safety, convenience, and dignity. Mobility management isn’t just about providing ride-it’s about offering the right type of assistance, such as door-to-door services, support for those with mobility aids, or drivers trained to help individuals with specific health needs. For individuals working to gain or maintain employment, having access to reliable transportation to and from work is critical for both their financial independence and overall well-being.

While many may qualify for free transportation through our mobility management program, some individuals may not be eligible. However, I can assist with setting them up with private taxi services or other transportation solutions that meet their needs. My goal is to make sure that everyone has access to the transportation they require, regardless of eligibility for free services.

By understanding the unique challenges faced by these groups, we can better design transportation solutions that cater to their needs. Listening to those who rely on these services will help tailor routes, schedules, and support systems that truly meet their requirements.

Get in Touch: Kaylyn Van Kirk, Mobility Manager

As the Mobility Manager for Guernsey and Muskingum counties, I am dedicated to ensuring that veterans, seniors, and individuals with developmental disabilities have access to transportation services that improve their quality of life. If you or someone you know could benefit from these transportation services, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can contact me directly at (740) 801-2449 or by email at kvankirk@guernseycountycdc.com. And visit our website www.managemobility.org

More Than Just Transportation: Additional Resources and Support

In addition to assisting with mobility management, I also help with the implementation and funding of wheelchair ramps for residents, ensuring they can easily access their homes despite mobility challenges. Beyond transportation, I assist individuals in need of resources for food, housing, utilities, and clothing, working to connect people with the services that can improve their daily lives.

The Call to Action

The need for accessible transportation is undeniable, and there are many ways we can all play a role in addressing it. I’m asking for your help to raise awareness of the transportation needs for veterans, seniors, and individuals with developmental disabilities. By supporting and spreading the word about these free transportation programs, we can ensure that these individuals have the opportunity to live independently, stay connected with their community, and receive the healthcare and services they need—including reliable transportation to and from work.

Mobility management is not just about getting from point A to point B-it’s about empowering those who have sacrificed so much, those who deserve to age with dignity, and those with developmental disabilities who seek independence and employment. Let’s work together to raise awareness and support these critical transportation services that can transform lives.

 

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