by Yvonne La-Garde, Chairperson

Pelham Pathways is thrilled to announce its official incorporation as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization! Approved by the IRS and launched in December 2024, Pelham Pathways was created to meet a growing need in our community: providing accessible, sustainable outdoor spaces where people of all ages and abilities can thrive.

Our mission is simple yet transformative: to build stronger, healthier communities by connecting people with nature and with one another. With the dedication of our volunteers and the generosity of our community, Pelham Pathways aims to enhance Pelham’s outdoor resources, foster inclusion, and promote active, healthy lifestyles.

The Need for Pelham Pathways: Pelham has long been a community with incredible natural resources, but as our town grows and diversifies, the demand for inclusive, accessible outdoor spaces has never been greater. Pelham Pathways was born to address this need, uniting efforts that ensure everyone—regardless of age, ability, or background—can enjoy the beauty and benefits of nature.

Our Volunteer-Led Initiatives

Community Trail Coalition: The Coalition ensures Pelham’s 30 miles of trails remain accessible and welcoming to all. Volunteers research trail history and ecology, lead guided hikes, and collaborate with the Forestry Committee to maintain these vital community resources.

Celebration Park Committee: This team oversees Celebration Park, a wheelchair-accessible space for community gatherings and activities. Efforts include maintaining memorial trees, perennial beds, and a bluebird sanctuary while improving park accessibility with upgraded paths.

In this photo, volunteers Kathleen, Linda, Joy and Cheryl do spring clean-up at Pelham Veterans Memorial Park.

Pickleball Community: Promoting healthy, active lifestyles, our Pickleball Community offers free lessons for all ages and abilities, hosts tournaments, and fosters camaraderie.

Top left: Joy and her partner, Walter, weed the perennial gardens at the Celebration Park. Rick Davis, avid pickleball player and care taker of the bluebird sanctuary at the Celebration Park.

All Persons Trail at Merriam Farm Conservation Area: The All Persons Trail is a centerpiece project, designed to provide universal accessibility with flat, obstacle-free paths, resting benches, an audio tour, and scenic overlooks. With $100,000 already raised, a January 2025 capital campaign will aim to complete this inclusive resource.

Looking Ahead: Pelham Pathways is committed to making Pelham a leader in conservation and community inclusion. From enhancing our trails to hosting outdoor events and building connections across generations, this new non-profit is poised to enrich the lives of all who call Pelham home.

Membership Matters: The more voices we have, the stronger our impact. Membership is free—your support and enthusiasm are all we need to drive change. Visit Pelhampathways.com to learn more, become a member, or find out how you can help build the All Persons Trail.

Together, let’s make Pelham a community where everyone can thrive in the great outdoors.

Pelham Pathways: Creating Sustainable, Inclusive Outdoor Spaces for All.