Local investment continues to be the best strategy for ensuring prosperity for our local communities. Twenty five years ago, Nate Neely and his mother, Marilyn, recognized a need that went beyond Venango County, but could be addressed in their hometown of Oil City.
In 1998, they established Pathways Adolescent Center, a 28 bed group home with 10 employees. Nate had been working in the field of juvenile justice and Marilyn as a nursing home administrator, positioning them with the experience and knowledge to address the underserved community of youth for 11-20 year olds, in need of residential services, counseling, and education.
Today, Pathways facilities include 6 buildings, located on North Seneca Street, two homes in Oil City for transitional living, and two additional residential buildings to be added this year. The current staff of 110 is expected to grow to 200 in the next year, as the Pathways population and programs expand.
Nate’s commitment to the community he calls home has compelled him to continue his investment here. He explains that, “Youth come here with a variety of challenges. It is our goal to provide them with the resources and tools they need to lead a successful life. While we are working with them individually, we are also looking for ways to integrate them into the community. When we are successful, this is mutually beneficial.” He adds that 30-40 of the Pathways youth are currently employed in the local community.
Additionally, students are often involved in volunteering throughout the region, helping with community events, plantings, and clean-up efforts. Recently several young men from Pathways, accompanied by a staff member, helped place decorative planters around downtown Oil City for the Oil City Main Street Program.
Chamber President Susan Williams remarks, “Pathways is a valued community partner with continued investment in property development, as a major employer who has adapted with the times and in addressing important social issues for our youth.”
Pathways is part of a larger local ecosystem, contracting with local service agencies, Craig Psychological, Regional Counseling Center and Family Services, partnering with Seneca Medical and educating youth through Oil City Area School District, the IU6, and its own private academic school. With each building they add, they support local vendors and continue to contribute to the tax base of the City and the County.
Pathways has won the “Residential Facility of the Year”, most recently in 2021, a reflection of the Neely family’s commitment to the youth they serve.
When asked how the community can support the continued growth and success of Pathways and its youth, Nate replies, “Our students are ready to volunteer and work here and would benefit from a higher level of engagement with community members. When you see them in the community, invite them to be part of your activities and let them know they can have a future here.”
Congratulations to Pathways Adolescent Center on 25 years!
This article was published in the Venango Chamber’s July 2023 VenangoWorks! Newsletter.