Empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to pursue their God given purpose.
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Created on Purpose. Called for a Purpose.

Most adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are told what they can’t do—especially after high school, when opportunities narrow and isolation grows. At Shepherds College, we believe every person is created on and for a purpose. That’s why we empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to pursue their God-given purpose through a gospel-centered educational model that builds faith, life skills, personal development, and job readiness.

Choosing the right path after high school isn’t easy, especially when your student has an intellectual or developmental disability. You want to know they’ll be safe, supported, and truly prepared for what comes next.

Most families we meet are wrestling with the same questions:

Will my child ever experience independence?

Without the right environment, many students with IDD struggle to grow beyond high school routines.

How will they find a job and build a future?

The job market is often unclear and overwhelming, especially without specialized support.

Will they have friends and community?

Isolation is a real fear for families. Belonging makes all the difference in a student’s growth.

The answer is the same as it is for any student: college opens doors. It provides additional training, education, and experience to prepare for meaningful employment and life beyond high school.

Until recently, students with IDD had very few post-secondary options. Shepherds College was created to bridge that gap, offering a Christ-centered environment where students grow spiritually, socially, academically, and emotionally.

Here, students don’t just say, “I want to be more independent.” They experience what independence means, supported by a safe community and a staff who believes in their potential.

Read “Why Post-Secondary Education for Young Adults with Intellectual Disabilities?” (published in SEEN Magazine, 2010)

We want to be a trusted resource as you support your child’s journey. Here are articles, blogs, and organizations we recommend:

Articles of Interest:

  • A Leap of Love — Washington Post
    (Article on Adoptions of Children with Down Syndrome)
  • Surprised by Disability — Christianity Today
    (Insightful comments from Al Hsu in Christianity Today)

Parent to Parent:

  • Daniela’s Journey to Independence
    (This blog follows Daniela as she overcomes her disabilities and becomes an independent adult. Daniela’s mom, Tina, shares many of her experiences and feelings as Daniela journeys toward independence.)
  • Such the Spot
    (A blog about Darcie, her daughter, Cassidy, faith, family and living with Down syndrome.)

Publications & Resources:

Disabilities Ministries:

Supporting Organizations:

  • ABWE
    Association of Baptists for World Evangelism
SCHEDULE PREVIEW DAY VISIT READ STUDENT STORIES

Why Families Choose Shepherds College

At Shepherds College, we understand the hopes and concerns families carry when planning for life after high school. Our mission is to provide more than an education — we offer a transformative experience where students grow in independence, develop valuable job skills, and discover their place in the world.

Through our accredited programs, faith-based community, and dedicated staff, students are equipped for life beyond the classroom. With personalized instruction, hands-on learning, and a campus environment designed for success, Shepherds College empowers students to live with purpose and pursue meaningful work and relationships.

Why Families Trust Shepherds College:

  • Accredited, specialized programs
  • Practical job training & internships
  • Vibrant faith-based, values-driven community
  • Personalized life skills development
  • Strong student and family support
  • 268 graduates living with greater independence
  • 1:8 Staff to Student ratio
  • $1.2M in annual scholarships awarded
  • 90% gainful employment rate
  • 98% family satisfaction rate
SCHEDULE PREVIEW DAY VISIT READ STUDENT STORIES

Your Next Step to Independence Starts Here

We’ve made it simple to explore Shepherds College and see how we can help your student thrive.

Every big journey begins with a first step — and we’re here to guide you through it. Whether you’re a parent or student, we’ll walk alongside you to make the process clear, supportive, and exciting. Here’s how to get started:

Step 1: Schedule a Campus Preview Day

Come see Shepherds College in action.

Step 2: Discover the Right Program for Your Student

We help you explore all the options.

Step 3: Enroll with Confidence

Begin your student’s journey to independence.

See the Difference Shepherds College Makes

From hopeful beginnings to confident graduates ready for life and work — this is the transformation we celebrate every day.

Shepherds College is more than a place of learning — it’s a community of growth, encouragement, and real-world preparation. Here’s what happens when students join our programs:

✅ From Uncertain to Empowered
Students build daily living skills, from cooking to budgeting, preparing them for greater independence.

✅ From Confused to Career-Ready
Through hands-on job training, internships, and career coaching, students graduate equipped for employment in fields like culinary arts, hospitality, and technology.

✅ From Isolated to Connected
Students form meaningful friendships and become part of a campus community that feels like family.

We’ve witnessed hundreds of students walk across our graduation stage, proud and prepared, ready to step confidently into the next chapter of their lives.

A Few Of Our Students’ Stories

Real Stories, Real Impact

See how Shepherds College has helped students and families achieve independence, growth, and a brighter future.

  • I’ve grown so much at Shepherds College — in my independence, my skills, and my faith. I never imagined learning could be this much fun and so life-changing.
    Lana
    Graduate (Completed All Three Majors)
  • Shepherds College gave our son not just an education, but a purpose. He’s thriving socially, spiritually, and professionally.
    Mary
    Parent of Graduate
  • Hiring graduates from Shepherds College has been a blessing. They come prepared, dedicated, and eager to contribute.
    Local Employer Partner
  • Learning technology skills has opened up new doors for me. I feel proud of what I can do, and I know I’m ready for the real world.
    Austin
    Technology Student, Ion Education Intern
  • At first, I was nervous about being away from home. But Shepherds College became my second family. They cared about me, believed in me, and helped me become more confident every day.
    Seth
    Graduate (Horticulture major, now working in landscaping)
  • When we discovered Shepherds College, it felt like an answer to prayer. The programs, the community, the care for our daughter — it’s everything we hoped for and more.
    Parent of a Current Student
  • Every day, we see students grow in ways that are inspiring. They discover talents they never knew they had and step confidently into their future.
    Heather
    Staff Member
  • It’s more than teaching — it’s watching lives transform. Shepherds College changes futures, one student at a time.
    Carrie
    Staff Member
  • Shepherds College graduates come to us prepared, hardworking, and eager to contribute. They bring incredible value to our teams.
    Employer Partner
    Weidner Cares! Event Highlight
  • Watching our students serve others overseas was life-changing. Their courage and compassion shone bright, showing the world the heart of Shepherds College.
    Mission Team Leader
    Brazil 2024
  • I am so grateful for the role that Shepherds College has had in shaping our daughter Ashley into a Christian lady who wants to please God. She graduated in 2016 and was able to secure her first job starting the day after graduation. She has been working for a youth camp for two weeks and has been promoted from server to assistant chef due in part to her culinary knowledge she gained from the Chef. If any of you had known Ashley ten years ago, you would not believe this is that girl. I am so grateful to God for the changes He has wrought in her.
    Dave Smith
  • Shepherd’s College is one of the best things that has ever happened to our son! He is more confident and capable now than he was a year ago; I can’t wait to see what the next two years bring!
    Sheri Muma
  • We are so pleased with Kati’s confidence. The College has helped her define her gifts, abilities and then nurtured them through the staff and programs! This College is a gift to these young, significant people.
    Bonnie Lehman
  • Torrey is loving his life at Shepherd’s College! Shepherd’s College is a life-changing, three-year college program. Take a long look and think seriously because this school is a life-time experience you don’t want to miss! It’s a launchpad for discovering your God-given talents so you can go out and help make the world a better place. Friendship, knowledge and forming a career path are all part of the Shepherd’s College experience.
    Gretchen Ryan
  • We are thrilled to see how Abby has grown spiritually and emotionally at Shepherds College. She has gained some independence and confidence that she did not have before. We are so thankful for the guidance she has received from staff members. They have come alongside of Abby, teaching her appropriate behavior. We are so impressed with the patience and kindness they have shown. They work so hard, and we can definitely see the fruit of that hard work. Thank you!
    Deanne Grabinski
  • Megan has matured in so many ways since coming to Shepherds. We’re grateful for the safe, faith-centered environment and caring staff who have helped her grow in confidence, communication, and independence. The values and skills she’s learning will serve her well for years to come.
    John Bryson

Impacting Lives Together

We’re grateful for our trusted partners who help empower students with IDD to thrive every day.

    • Thank you for being part of the Shepherds College family.

    Want to join our mission? Make an impact with us.
    Partner with Shepherds College to empower students with intellectual and developmental disabilities to thrive in life and work.