During the 1985 National Conference of United Methodist Men at Purdue University, a group of men from the Central Texas Conference found their hearts strangely warmed. They discovered a special ministry begun in another state. This ministry was a residential and vocational center to train mildly to moderately challenged adults. Through further inquiry, they discovered that not only had this ministry been very successful, but also there was a growing need in Texas to provide more alternative services to these individuals and their families through a similar type of center. The Central Texas Conference in 1987, inspired by the vision of United Methodist Men, approved the development of this special ministry.

Aldersgate Enrichment Center is a not-for-profit sheltered workshop with a vocational program and a residential program. It is a ministry related to the Central Texas Conference of the United Methodist Church to meet the needs of physically and mentally challenged adults. Employment and life-skills training are provided for those of our society who otherwise would be considered unemployable.

This Christian training facilityand special ministry is designed to help these individuals with limited abilities to maintain dignity and to reach their potential intellectually, physically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. Pride is taken in the fact that all of our Associates at Aldersgate are paid minimum wage. Through their earnings, many have become more independent, requiring little or no help from individuals outside their homes.

The Aldersgate Program receives no state or federal funding. Aldersgate was built on faith and continues to grow through contributions from individuals and other organizations as well as receiving funds through sales and contract opportunities in the Vocational Program.

Each workday, for the Associates and staff,begins with a devotion as the day is given to the Lord. This gives them the opportunity to experience spiritual growth. Many of the Associates come from different faith backgrounds, so

Since the beginning of the Vocational Program in 1991, Aldersgate has enjoyed a tremendous increase in business. The first department of this unique training facility created is the Pallet Department. Production began with 600 wooden pallets being built a week. Now, with the continued growth and demand, 500 to 600 pallets a day are being produced. This department has reached potentials beyond what was ever expected.

In addition to the Pallet Department, growth continues in our Packaging Department as well as our Recycle Department. Currently, packaging is being done for several area companies as well as producing our own package of plastic dinnerware packets. The dinnerware packets were developed by Aldersgate for the Associates. Each packet contains a fork, knife, spoon and napkin. Condiments may also be added, if so desired. These packets are custom designed and are available in any quantity requested.

The Recycle Departmentdepends on the surrounding communities and private citizens to provide cardboard and newspaper for the Aldersgate Associates to recycle. Currently, cardboard is received from several area businesses. It would be advantageous for citizens as well as any other businesses who do not have cardboard or newspapers picked up to join in helping the Associates and the Re-cycle Department. Many of the Associates come from Brown County and surrounding areas. Most people are unaware that by saving their cardboard and newspaper pro-ducts, they are also helping the mentally challenged Associates become more self-sufficient and more aware of their own self-worth. All areas of vocation at Aldersgate Enrichment Center give Associates the opportunity to become a vital part of the community. It is our hope that each person can help us with our mission in providing opportunities for these special individuals.

Aldersgate’s dream continues to grow with the first residential home. This residence has the capacity to provide a home for nine individuals. In the home, Associates learn basic living skills and responsibilities. They also have the opportunity for recreation, shopping, sports, gardening, tending to animals and other opportunities to obtain further socialization skills. Aldersgate exists for all of the Associates, those living in the residential home as well as the Associates living in the community, to be self-sufficient, to know their self-worth and to have the ability to reach their potential in all aspects of their lives.
 

The Associates at Aldersgate take pride in themselves, the work they do and the place where they work. They are eager to do, and enjoy the work that is provided for them. The Associates receive mini-mum wage; a large sum considering that many other facilities for mentally challenged adults pay on a piece-rate wage. Many times when an Associate receives his or her first paycheck, there may be tears as they are given their first check. They feel the pride and dignity with actually earning a pay-check for themselves. 

Every time you see one of the Associates, you see a smiling face. More important, you see a person who enjoys the opportunity to be a part of Aldersgate Enrichment Center as well as a contributing member of the community. The Associates are excited about the opportunities that are available for them.

Aldersgate Enrichment Center is located approximately 3.5 miles east of Early, Texas on Highway 183/84 East.

You are invited to come and visit Aldersgate to see for your- self what a unique and special   ministry this is.  You will be blessed.

 To schedule a tour or to receive more information on the residential program, vocational program or how you can become a vital part of this incredible endeavor, please call Devin Coyle, Development Director at  (325) 646-5608.  You may also write: