Mission Statement 

Our mission is to empower young adults with disabilities as they transition to greater independence, providing them with the skills, support, and confidence to lead fulfilling lives. We are dedicated to creating a safe and inclusive environment where everyone can explore personal growth, build social connections and develop practical life skills. 

Through personalised guidance and community-based experiences, we strive to foster resilience, self-advocacy, and a strong sense of purpose, enabling every participant to achieve their unique potential and actively participate in their community. 

Vision

Our vision is to create a world where young adults with disabilities live empowered, independent lives as valued, active members of their communities. We envision our transitional house as a nurturing, inclusive environment where each resident can explore and develop their unique strengths, achieve their personal goals, and build meaningful, lasting connections. We are committed to fostering self-confidence, resilience, and skills that support lifelong independence. Our vision extends beyond the walls of our residence to a community and society that celebrates diversity, champions accessibility, and offers ongoing support for individuals of all abilities. 

Through individualized support, community involvement, holistic development, we aim to equip our residents with the skills and self-assurance to transition successfully to building a robust support network of family, friends, employers, and advocates, encouraging life-long connections and opportunities that empower every resident to thrive. We are committed to creating space where resident to thrive. We are committed to creating a space where residents can safely take on challenges, celebrate achievements, and embrace their futures with optimism and strength. 

History 

Independence House Academy was born from the heartfelt vision of Shep, a parent navigating the challenges and joys of raising a child with special needs. As his daughter, Lila, grew up, Shep and his wife, Amanda, faced the daunting question: Where can our child thrive, succeed, and continue to grow in a supportive and safe environment?

Recognizing a significant gap in resources and opportunities for young adults with unique needs, Shep envisioned a place where individuals could embrace independence, learn essential skills, and feel valued for their abilities. With passion and determination, he set out to create a program that bridged this gap—an environment that not only fostered personal growth but also built confidence, community, and purpose.

In collaboration with Summit Camp, Shep piloted a smaller version of the program between 2022 and 2025. During this time, young adults lived in Honesdale with support staff and had the opportunity to grow independently through customized guidance, daily living skills, job readiness, and community inclusion. The success of this program validated the need for a more comprehensive, permanent solution.

Through conversations with other parents of young adults, it became evident that this community was in need of a caring, inclusive home environment—a place where individuals could thrive, not just survive. Inspired by this need, Independence House Academy was officially established to meet the demand for a structured, supportive, and empowering program.

Today, Independence House Academy stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity, providing specialized programs that focus on life skills, academic growth, and personal development. It is a place where young adults are celebrated for their unique strengths and are supported as they strive to achieve their fullest potential.

What began as one parent’s dream has now grown into a thriving community of dedicated staff, supportive families, and incredible individuals, all united by the belief that every person deserves the chance to succeed in their own unique way

To find out more information about us at the IHA, complete the inquiry form below.