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Dear Pathways friends & supporters,
As you have likely heard, in late December, our board chair-elect, volunteer, and friend Tom Schwandt passed. I want to take a moment to share what Tom Schwandt meant to Pathways—and to me.
Tom was a vital and deeply beloved part of this organization. Ironically, for someone who spent so much of his time here teaching me how to measure things, his impact is immeasurable. He touched the lives of the individuals and families we serve, but he also shaped the people doing the work; I was so, so lucky to be one of them. Tom was a trusted mentor, a steady advisor, and someone who understood both the weight and the loneliness of leadership. His guidance changed how I lead and how I show up every day.
During his years on the Pathways Board of Directors, Tom was involved in nearly every part of our work. He helped shape our strategic vision and played a meaningful role in the thinking that ultimately led to our rebrand and strengthened our future. He asked (So. Many. !!!) thoughtful questions, pushed us to be clearer and more intentional, and always kept the mission and the people behind it at the center.
Tom also worked closely with us to help design and bring to life a more developed version of our Your Path program, which reflects so much of who he was: grounded in dignity, practical support, and a belief that lasting change is possible when people are met with respect and care.
Beyond leadership and planning, Tom gave his time in the most hands-on way—volunteering week after week in the food pantry, working alongside staff and neighbors with humility and kindness.
In recognition of Tom’s extraordinary service and the legacy he leaves behind, the Pathways food pantry and the Your Path allocated fund will be named in his honor. It feels like a fitting tribute to someone who gave so much of himself to this work and this community, though we are devastated.
I already miss him deeply. We all do. And we will continue carrying his influence forward in how we lead, how we serve, and how we care for one another.
With gratitude,
Katie Broadfoot
Executive Director, Pathways
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