Inspired by the vision of SA Life Academy’s Founder, Cindy, the cottage will be a vocational training storefront where adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities gain real-world job experience while engaging directly with the San Antonio community.
Opening Doors To Opportunity
For adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), meaningful employment opportunities can be limited. Too often, individuals who are capable, creative, and eager to contribute face barriers to gaining real world job experience and community connection. SA Life Academy is launching a capital campaign to build Cindy’s Cottage, a vocational training storefront designed to help students develop real-world skills while engaging with the San Antonio community.
FEATURES
Families want their loved ones to have meaningful relationships, Community, belonging, and engagement, not just care. Cindy’s Cottage will feature:
• A Student-Operated Storefront
• Career Development & Production Space
• Community Green Space
• Cindy’s Memorial Garden
• Community Green Space & Hub for Inclusion
BUILDING ON PROVEN SUCCESS
SA Life Academy has already demonstrated the power of real-world vocational training through Rising Stars Coffee, launched in September 2025. Cindy’s Cottage represents the next step in expanding these opportunities — creating a permanent space where students can learn, work, and engage with the community every day. Construction is anticipated to begin in 2026, and SA Life Academy is currently seeking founding donors and funding partners to help bring Cindy’s Cottage to life.
JOIN US IN BUILDING CINDY’S VISION
Construction is anticipated to begin in 2026, and SA Life Academy is currently seeking founding donors and funding partners to help bring Cindy’s Cottage to life. With your support, we can ensure Cindy’s vision continues to open doors for generations to come.
To learn more or discuss campaign opportunities, please contact:
Ellen Shoemaker
Co-Executive Director
ellen@salifeacedemy.org