During the 1985 National Congress of United Methodist Men of 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 mentally 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 their individuals and their families through a similar type of center.  The Central Texas conferenc in 1987, inspired by the vision of the United Methodist Men, approved the development of this special ministry.

Soon after Aldersgate’s inception, a selection committee visited thirteen communities in search of a location for the new center.  The visits assessed the resources in regard to the availability of the health facilities, utilities, church support and cooperation, community acceptance and support of mentally challenged citizens.  While there were many communities that excelled in these areas, Brownwood was finally chosen and the new location for the center.  In 1988, the Central Texas Conference was presented a deed to 150 acres that the Brownwood Industrial Foundation provided for the new center.

Through the United Methodist Men’s dream, Aldersgate Enrichment Center has become a unique vocational community that offers a safe work environment where challenges are met and accomplished.  This Christian training facility and special ministry is designed to help these individuals with limited abilites to maintain dignity and to reach their potential intellectually, physically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.