On and For a Purpose
Program

The Shepherds College On and For a Purpose Program equips churches to empower individuals with IDD to embrace their God-given purpose and develop the skills for greater independence—through facilitator-led sessions in their own communities.
Write your awesome label here.

About O4P

The On and For a Purpose Program provides churches and organizations with a purpose-driven curriculum focused on faith, life skills, personal growth, and job readiness. Through a comprehensive subscription, members gain access to 40 training sessions, facilitator certification, digital workbooks, and engaging strategies. This program helps transform ministries and support individuals with IDD in embracing their God-given potential.

What We Provide

  • Five courses with eight lessons each
  • Lessons designed to be two hours
  • Facilitator guide 
  • Student workbook
  • Easy-to-follow online lessons
  • Engaging activities for learners
  • Peer networking opportunities
  • Facilitator onboarding and training


Courses 

Personal Development: How Big Is My Problem? 
Improve your emotional regulation and relationships by correctly identifying the size of a problem and determining the expected response. 
Faith Journey: On and For a Purpose
Unpack the profound truth that each individual is created by God on purpose and for a purpose.
Life Skills: Living in Community
Learn how to be a considerate community member by practicing good personal hygiene and adhering to social expectations. 
Workplace Readiness: Vocational Time Management
Set yourself up for success at work by learning what it means to be a timely, efficient, and productive worker.  
Faith Journey: S.H.A.P.E
Gain an understanding of your unique, God-given S.H.A.P.E. through which you are equipped to serve God and others.  

View a Sample 

Facilitator Guide

A step-by-step guide for facilitators with pacing strategies and engagement activities to deliver lessons.

Student Workbook

A workbook guiding learners through lessons, verifying understanding, and serving as a take-home reference.

Online Lessons

Online lessons featuring videos, graphics, and key information for engaging front-of-class presentations.

“The lessons have helped me understand that God made me for a purpose and some strategies to use when I am struggling.”
- Carolyn (learner)
“The lessons are easy to follow and have good engagement opportunities for students and having access to the content saves me time in having to create and develop content."
- Jacoby (Facilitator)
“It is nice to have curriculum made by a Christian organization whose beliefs align with ours that we don’t have to modify.”
- Rebecca (Director)
Introductory pricing for first year. 

$5,000
$4,000

Onboarding

Start

Facilitator onboarding session, training, and support getting program started. 
Facilitator Resources

Train

Facilitator handbook, student workbooks, online lessons, and access to engagement strategies. 
Continued Learning

Grow

Peer networking, webinars, and a free registration to SC Education Symposium 2026

How To Get Started

Start by recognizing the God-given potential of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and valuing their journey toward greater independence. Identify passionate champions in your church and community who share this vision. Subscribe to the On and For a Purpose Program and complete facilitator training. Then, promote the program, recruit participants, and launch a life-changing experience that empowers and enriches individuals with IDD.

01.

Find your champions 

Identify those who will play a part in making the program successful as facilitators and volunteers. 

02.

Subscribe to O4P

Sign up for an annual subscription to the On and For Purpose Program.

03. 

Set up the details

Plan the location, date, and time to hold the classes.

04. 

Facilitator Training

Take and complete the facilitator training to prepare to run your program.

05. 

Identify Learners

Promote and recruit learners throughout your community. 

Learn more

Enter your email to learn more, or contact O4P@shepherdscollege.edu
Thank you!