You Are Designed on Purpose — and for a Purpose. 

Training and empowering neurodivergent adults to discover their strengths, develop essential life skills, and pursue their God-given potential through Appropriate Independence.

Trained for Life HK is a non-residential college experience designed to equip neurodivergent adults with the skills, confidence, and responsibility needed for meaningful adulthood and work readiness. Students grow in areas such as daily living skills, social development, personal responsibility, and vocational preparation. 

Can a single decision change my life for the better?

My son Torrey, age 33, would answer with a resounding yes! He was born with a brain injury and diagnosed with cerebral palsy. His entire life has been one of overcoming challenges. Did he ever dream he would be independent and working in his field of passion? I believe he would not have imagined it possible. Until we discovered a place called Shepherds College in the rural village of Union Grove, Wisconsin. A three-year accredited residential program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. And Torrey said "yes" to go there to study and live on campus.

Now the best-kept secret, which looks more and more like the world’s best model for equipping and empowering young adults with neurodivergent abilities, is coming to Hong Kong!

In 2026, with the purchase and support of an expansion model called Trained for Life by Shepherds College, a new opportunity is available for our post-secondary students. The dream is that all of our young adults with varied needs and abilities will find hope and fulfilling dreams and know with certainty they were created on and for a purpose and have much to contribute to their communities.

— Gretchen Ryan, Board Member & Parent

• We are designed on purpose and for a purpose.

• We are created as individuals for community.

• Our purpose is to train for life.

• Our goal is to empower individuals to serve.