TIMONIUM, Md. – Pathfinders for Autism today announced the hiring of Denise Near as its first “community connector” for Western Maryland. Near will help individuals with autism, parents and professionals find resources, support and training, and is the first in this position to be hired by the organization.
“After a year of intensive fundraising, PFA is excited to finally launch the ‘community connector’ program. We have a long history of working with many great local partners in Western Maryland and are thrilled to have it be our launch region. We look forward to expanding our program depth in the area and exploring new community partnerships,” said Rebecca Rienzi, executive director, Pathfinders for Autism.
The community connector campaign, launched in 2025 to celebrate the group’s 25th Anniversary, will hire local Connectors in each geographic region of the state to work at the grassroots level to deliver the organizaiton’s safety, community and resource programming. The goal is that all individuals with autism and their families are supported and connected in their very own communities.
Near will be based in Washington County and will serve residents across Washington, Allegany and Garrett Counties. Near is a children’s book author who transforms her first-hand experience with her daughter into a simply written, educational picture book. She is a mother, wife, writer, dental hygienist and autism awareness advocate. She currently resides in Washington County with her husband and children.
“Becoming the Western Maryland community connector for Pathfinders for Autism is truly a dream come true. Since my daughter’s diagnosis in 2016, all I have wanted is to find a way to help not only my daughter, but also other families as they navigate this journey. It can feel overwhelming, isolating and lonely, but Pathfinders brings comfort, guidance, resources and community to families that need it most. I am so honored and excited to join their mission,” Near said.
About Pathfinders for Autism: Established in 2000 by parents of children with autism, Pathfinders for Autism has since grown into Maryland’s largest autism organization. Pathfinders for Autism works to educate and train the community to support and improve the lives of individuals with autism and their families throughout the lifespan.
