Students with IDD are often left behind after high school. We’re changing that.
Every year, over 150,000 young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) graduate into a world with few options—no career path, no support system, no safe way to pursue independence.
At Shepherds College, we’re rewriting that story. With your support, students discover their strengths through accredited programs in Culinary Arts, Horticulture, and Technology—while growing in life skills, faith, and confidence.
❤️ Meet Ian. He said yes to every challenge and found his purpose.
Ian’s passion for cooking and serving others has always set him apart. During his third year in the Shepherds College Culinary Arts program, he thrived in his Occupational Experience placements. His first experience was at Chick-fil-A, where he strengthened his teamwork and customer service skills, and then at Baking Bird, a local bakery. Under the mentorship of Birdie, the bakery’s owner, Ian discovered a natural gift for pastry-making. Those experiences built his confidence and deepened his love for working in a kitchen where excellence and care are highly valued.
Now a full-time member of the Shepherds College staff, Ian leads students in meal prep, service, and dining room setup with professionalism and joy. For Ian, this role is more than just a job, it’s a calling.
💜 “When I was 14, I volunteered at a camp for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). That’s when I knew I wanted to help young people with IDD. Now I get to do that every day here. It brings me a lot of happiness.” – Ian, Class of 2025
📊 Your gift is not charity.
It’s investment with measurable return.
We deliver results:
- 92% graduation rate across all majors
- 81% job placement within 12 months
- Programs fully accredited by NCA CASI
- Over $1M annually in scholarships awarded
- A plan to scale regionally by 2031
Want to know how your donation works? We will show you where every dollar goes—and what transformation it produces.
📈 For every $1,000 invested, we deliver $2,400 in economic and social value.
Before you give, we want you to know this: we see you. Whether you give because you recognize the extraordinary gifts and potential of students like Ian—or because you believe in scalable, measurable outcomes that deliver real change—you’re part of a story that’s bigger than any single donation.
We’re Shepherds College.
We’re the nation’s leading faith-based postsecondary school for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
We believe every student is made on purpose, for a purpose. With your help, we equip them to live with dignity, contribute meaningfully, and fulfill their God-given potential.
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:
3 Steps to Change a Life
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:
Choose the Way That Works For You
We’ve made it simple to explore Shepherds College and see how we can help your student thrive.
Whether you want to make an immediate impact or plan your legacy, every gift fuels life-changing education and faith-driven independence at Shepherds College.
Fast, secure, and immediate. Your online gift makes an immediate impact on the lives of Shepherds College students. Each donation helps us provide Christ-centered education and life skills training for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Giving online is fast, secure, and one of the simplest ways to support our mission today.
Every gift, no matter how it’s sent, helps students soar!
We gladly accept checks made payable to Shepherds College.
Mail your donation check to:
Shepherds College
Attn: Foundation Office
1805 15th Avenue, Union Grove, WI 53182
Become a Partner for Purpose recurring donor and fuel student growth every month and sustain student success year-round.
As a recurring donor, you provide consistent support that sustains scholarships, programs, and housing for our students. It’s an easy way to make a lasting difference—automated, flexible, and full of purpose.
Honor a loved one’s legacy with a memorial gift to Shepherds College. Your tribute not only celebrates their life but also empowers students to discover their God-given potential. We’ll notify the honoree’s family of your thoughtful contribution, if desired.
Double—or even triple—your impact through your employer’s matching gift program. Many companies match charitable donations, allowing your generosity to go even further. Ask your HR department for details or check your eligibility with our quick matching gift tool, Double the Donation.
Ready To Make An Impact?
Every gift helps unlock opportunity for a student who just needs the chance.