About Us
About Pathways
Walking alongside families for a brighter future
For more than 85 years, Pathways has shown up for Bloomington families — pairing high-quality early learning with the support and stability that help households thrive.
Who we are
A community committed to helping all families thrive
Pathways is a Bloomington, Indiana nonprofit that removes the barriers standing between families and lasting opportunity. From the classroom to the pantry to one-on-one financial coaching, every program we run is built to create real, durable change for families in Monroe County.
Our work comes together through two connected programs — Compass Early Learning Center, offering affordable, high-quality childcare for children ages 0–5, and the Family Resource Center, providing groceries, essentials, economic coaching, and wraparound support. Together they give families both a strong start and a steady path forward.
What drives us
Our mission & vision
Our Mission
We provide high-quality, affordable early learning and promote economic mobility for families.
Our Vision
To be an essential part of a community committed to helping all families thrive.
What we believe
The principles behind our work
Six principles shape every program we run, every family we serve, and every decision we make as an organization.
Importance of Education
We strive to provide the highest-quality early learning experience for every child at Compass, with ongoing professional development for our teachers and staff.
Whole-Family Approach
Child development extends beyond the classroom. Sliding-scale tuition, family resources, and coaching address the entire support system — because children thrive when families thrive.
Respect
We value unconditional positive regard. Every child, participant, staff member, volunteer, donor, and partner is treated with dignity — without exception.
Supportive Environment
We create environments where families, children, and staff experience safety, security, connection, and confidence — and connect people to the resources they need.
Equity
We promote equity over equality, designing programs that provide equitable access to quality early learning and support services for the families who need them most.
Stewardship
Every dollar goes toward our mission. We honor the trust of our supporters through accountability, transparency, and integrity — ensuring investments create lasting outcomes.
Our community
Moments from the work
"With support, a new path forward is always possible."— Pathways Staff
Join us
Be part of the path forward
Whether you give, volunteer, or simply spread the word — every act of support helps a Monroe County family build the future they deserve.