Mission And History

Bridging the gap between home, school and the community

Pathways.....a community-based Volunteer Hospice, began as a community outreach program in 1985, developed by Lakewood Regional Medical Center. Since 1987, we have operated as a separate entity, incorporated in the State of California as a 510c (3) agency.

Dedicated to providing compassionate care to the terminally ill and their bereaved families, our hospice program is designed to enhance the quality of life for the dying patient.

In 1997, our mission broadened through the support of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation to include Interfaith Volunteer Care giving for the frail/elderly and chronically ill.

We Believe.....

In enhancing the quality of life of terminally ill patients

In promoting independence and self-esteem for the frail/elderly

In assisting family members in their grief before and after death

In special programs for children who have experienced the death of a loved one

We Provide.....

Physical, psychological, social and spiritual support through trained volunteers

Assistance to teach and aid family members in caring for patients at home

Emotional and practical support for patients and family members

Bereavement support and grief education to patient families and the community

Coordination of professional and volunteer services for patients and their families

Pathways has always served numerous cities including Lakewood, Long Beach, Cerritos, Bellflower, Downey, Paramount, Artesia, Cypress, Seal Beach, and Carson.

Our Staff consists of a full-time Executive Director, a full time Operations Manager, a full-time Client Coordinator, part-time Bereavement Program Advisor, a part-time Bereavement Coordinator, and a part-time clerical support staff and 175 plus volunteers.

No one chooses to travel on a “journey through grief”, we are thrown into it when someone we love dies. You can count on Pathways to be there to help and support you… to be a “traveling companion” as you travel a new road.