Tuesday, June 29, 2010

June 29 (Day 121) Turning Disabilities Into Capabilities



For 50 years, Shepherds Ministries has focused on meeting the needs of people with developmental disabilities. We provide a variety of services addressing residential, educational and vocational needs. Shepherds Ministries, a nationally recognized organization founded on Jeremiah 23:4, provides compassionate Christian care, vocational education and job opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities, helping them attain Appropriate Independence with fulfilling jobs and lives, while also providing for their spiritual development.
For adults with developmental disabilities and their families, Shepherds' case managers, living skills instructors, nurse, consultants, teachers, work supervisors and administrative staff provide a future and a hope.

It was 1957 in Milwaukee Wisconsin when parents of a son with cognitive disabilities approached their Sunday school class and asked a probing question. "Would they consider doing something for children with developmental disabilities?" The outpouring of compassion that erupted from that class has cascaded down through multiple generations, profoundly impacting the lives of people with developmental disabilities.
At first it was baby sitting and day-care, but soon this class of caring couples saw a vision for a broader ministry to other families with children who were cognitively disabled. With much prayer and even greater faith, a boarding school was established for children with developmental disabilities.
In 1964, Shepherds Home and School opened its doors welcoming 36 children. At that time, little was being done in public education to address the needs of this special population. Shepherds Home and School provided an essential service to these children and their families.
As the children grew and as public education began providing special education services, Shepherds transitioned into an adult ministry, focusing on vocational training. Today, Shepherds Enterprises provides vocational training to adults with developmental disabilities. About 150 individuals live on our campus and many work at various jobs within Shepherds Enterprises.

In 2008, Shepherds Ministries returned to its educational roots, establishing Shepherds College, a 3 year post-secondary education program for young adults with cognitive disabilities.

Get Involved:

Make an online Donation.

Here's a great low cost way to help:
Collect Campbell's Soup labels.
Send your labels to Shepherds.

Our address is:
1805 15th Avenue
Union Grove, WI 53182



Source:  Shepherds Ministries

No comments:

Post a Comment

Japan Earthquake Relief

Shop My Zazzle Store


Make personalized gifts at Zazzle.