The Bravera Life Center, expected to open in 2028, will offer practical training in agriculture, culinary arts, manufacturing and entrepreneurship. High school juniors and seniors from 14 school districts are expected to travel to the facility, which will also serve adults who have aged out of school-based services.

The nonprofit plans to run the campus much like a vocational-technical school. Its president and CEO, Shawn Dillon, said the project is intended to address the divide between special education and employment.

“These individuals have so much to offer our community and our workforce,” Dillon said.

The Center of Family Love has worked with adults with intellectual disabilities for 45 years, supporting skill-building, independence and employment. The new facility will expand that work with a dedicated career development and training site.

Shay, who has worked as a florist at the center for 16½ years, said she is eager for the planned greenhouse and flower shop at the new campus. She described her current work as a source of purpose and connection.

“I’d rather be at the flower shop than being at home,” she said.

Dillon said the center is intended to create opportunities for people whose abilities and contributions are often overlooked. “Finding the purpose and dignity for these individuals that have so much to offer the world, it doesn’t exist now, and it’s becoming reality,” he said.