Four Decades of Compassion
Pathways was founded in the early 1980s by a group of concerned citizens who saw a critical need in Birmingham: women experiencing homelessness had nowhere safe to turn. What began as a small emergency shelter has grown into the oldest continuously operating women's shelter in Alabama.
Over the years, Pathways has merged with other nonprofit organizations to expand its reach and deepen its impact. These strategic partnerships have allowed us to offer more comprehensive services — from emergency shelter and case management to long-term housing solutions — while staying true to our founding mission of serving women with dignity and respect.
Today, Pathways serves hundreds of women each year, providing not just a safe place to sleep, but a pathway to stability, self-sufficiency, and hope for the future.
Mission, Vision & Values
Our Mission
To provide safe shelter, supportive services, and sustainable solutions for women experiencing homelessness in the Birmingham area, empowering them to achieve stability and independence.
Our Vision
A community where every woman has a safe, stable place to call home and the resources she needs to build a brighter future for herself and her family.
Our Values
We are guided by Hospitality — welcoming every woman with warmth and respect; Housing — believing that safe shelter is a fundamental right; Hope — fostering optimism and possibility in every interaction; and Education — empowering women with knowledge and skills for lasting change.
Dedicated Leadership
Meet the compassionate professionals who guide Pathways’ mission every day.
Kate Hollingsworth, MSW
Program CoordinatorKate oversees all program operations at Pathways, ensuring that every woman who walks through our doors receives comprehensive, compassionate care tailored to her unique needs.
Melinda Singleton
ELC Assistant DirectorMelinda supports the Early Learning Center, helping to provide a nurturing, educational environment for the children of Pathways’ residents.
Terry Conaway
Operations ManagerTerry ensures the smooth day-to-day running of Pathways’ facilities, from shelter operations to facility maintenance and resource coordination.
Jerolyn Holmes
Safe Haven Program ManagerJerolyn leads the Safe Haven program, providing longer-term supportive housing for women with chronic disabilities, helping them achieve stability and independence.
Board of Directors
Pathways is governed by a dedicated Board of Directors comprising community leaders, advocates, and professionals who bring diverse expertise to guide our strategic direction. The Board works closely with staff to ensure that Pathways remains faithful to its mission and financially responsible to its donors and the community it serves.
Board members serve without compensation and are deeply committed to the fight against homelessness among women in Birmingham. Their leadership and stewardship have been instrumental in Pathways’ growth and impact over four decades.
Join Our Team
Are you passionate about serving women experiencing homelessness? Pathways offers meaningful career opportunities for individuals dedicated to making a difference in the Birmingham community.
We seek staff who embody our values of hospitality, hope, housing, and education — people who are ready to walk alongside our residents on their journey toward stability and independence.
View Careers at PathwaysCommunity Partners & Sponsors
Pathways is proud to partner with these organizations that share our commitment to ending homelessness for women in Birmingham.
Interested in becoming a sponsor? Contact us to learn about partnership opportunities.