Our Mission

Starfish Pathways is dedicated to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities through personalized respite care and expert IEP advocacy. Our mission is to empower every person we serve to reach their full potential, fostering a community where every individual thrives.

About Anne Keane

Anne Keane, Founder and Executive Director of Starfish Pathways

Anne Keane has always been driven by a deep-seated passion to support individuals with special needs. Her journey began in the 3rd grade when she first volunteered for the Special Olympics, igniting a lifelong commitment to making a difference. In 4th grade, she formed a close bond with John, a classmate with autism, and became his dedicated support system both inside and outside the classroom, serving as his enthusiastic volunteer aide.

Throughout high school and college, Ms. Keane continued to dedicate her time to volunteering and holding part-time positions focused on serving people with special needs, which nurtured her desire to advocate for their rights and well-being.

After earning her Bachelor of Science in Special Education in 2013, Ms. Keane embarked on a career as a Special Education professional, gaining invaluable experience across elementary, middle school, and high school settings. Over the past decade, while employed by various school districts, she has also provided high-quality respite care after school, on weekends, and during summers for numerous children with special needs.

Ms. Keane's dedication to enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities extends beyond the classroom. Holding a Masters degree in Educational Technology, she leverages her expertise to facilitate communication for non-verbal students through the proficient use of AAC devices such as Touch Chat, LAMP, and Dynavox. Additionally, she actively engages the individuals she serves in recreational activities like playing the guitar, ukulele, singing, and rock-climbing, fostering a supportive environment where everyone can explore their interests and talents.

Through her multifaceted approach and tireless dedication, Anne Keane continues to be a driving force in empowering individuals with special needs to thrive and reach their full potential under the umbrella of Starfish Pathways.

Our Team

Starfish Pathways’ care providers have been carefully screened and trained to provide the services our clients require.  They are  CPR/First Aid certified, passed background checks and have undergone thorough client centered training, specific to the individual they are caring for.

Each care provider undergoes the CAPS Check

As well as a Criminal Background Check

Mandatory client centered on-the-job training and trial period

Our Philosophy

Ms. Keane has dedicated her life to empowering individuals with disabilities to become lifelong learners and achieve their aspirations. Her belief in providing personalized, engaging, and caring learning experiences for every student, coupled with the notion of collective responsibility in raising children, inspired her to establish Starfish Pathways. This 501(c)3 charitable organization embodies the ethos of "The Starfish Story," where even small acts of kindness can make a significant difference in someone's life. Through Starfish Pathways, children are reminded that despite feeling powerless at times, the support of just one person can have a profound and lasting impact, making each individual feel valued and special.

Why Starfish?