A few words
About Us
History
Our Story...
Wellness GIFTS was founded by Janet Opila-Lehman in 2001 to provide social, recreational, therapeutic, and educational activities for individuals with special needs and their families. In the first four years, one retreat was held with an additional retreat added each year. We now offer four summer retreats. We continue to strive to achieve the three R’s: Respite, Recreation, and Rejuvenation. In January 2022, Wellness GIFTS merged with Pathways, Inc., a not-for-profit human service organization serving individuals and families across the Finger Lakes, Southern Tier, and Rochester, New York regions by providing an array of services through core programs including Care and Coordination Services, Childcare and Educational Services, Community and Habilitation Services, and Residential Services. This program is made possible through a grant from OPWDD Family Support Services.
OPWDD funding supports families from Chemung, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, Wayne, Wyoming, and Yates counties. Participation by families from out-of-region will result in increased expense.
Learn More About Us
MISSION
Wellness GIFTS is committed to providing educational, social, emotional, recreational activities, and respite care to all members of families who have children with a developmental disability.*
VISION
Wellness GIFTS will be recognized in New York State for providing unique opportunities for families with children who have special needs in the areas of education, socialization, emotional and respite support.
*Must have established eligibility for OPWDD services.
