For students with intellectual and developmental disabilities, transitioning into adulthood presents unique challenges. Butler Tech’s Project LIFE is helping students overcome these barriers through hands-on learning, real-world skills development, and now, two new microenterprises that provide an innovative approach to work-based learning.
Project LIFE, founded at Butler Tech in 2007, is a program designed to prepare students for independence and success in adulthood. By combining classroom instruction with work experiences, students gain employability, social, and life skills that enable them to confidently navigate the future. Today, Project LIFE serves 120 students annually and has grown into a nationally replicated model of success nearly fifty replication sites worldwide.
This year, Project LIFE expanded its offerings with the launch of two new microenterprises: Lather with LIFE at the LeSourdsville Campus and Crafting LIFE with Purpose at the Natural Science Center. These small, student-led businesses allow the interns to explore entrepreneurship, practice workplace skills, and see the tangible results of their efforts.
At the LeSourdsville Campus, Lather with LIFE teaches students the art of soap-making. From melting the soap base to selecting molds, colors, and fragrances, interns are involved in every step of the process.
“Our interns contribute to the process by cutting up the soap base, melting it, and stirring it until it’s ready to pour into molds,” explained instructor Ashley Angel. “Some of the most rewarding moments are when the interns see their creations and how they’ve turned out.”
In addition to the hands-on crafting process, students also learn key business skills such as pricing products and managing inventory. These real-world applications provide valuable insights into entrepreneurship while building self-confidence and teamwork.
At the Natural Science Center, Crafting LIFE with Purpose offers students the chance to design and produce various crafts, including decorations and handmade goods. Each intern contributes according to their strengths, allowing them to take ownership of tasks that match their abilities.
“The students play an integral role in every step of the microenterprise—from brainstorming ideas to creating products and marketing them,” said Lindsay Bodeker, instructor at the Natural Science Center location. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see interns take pride in creating something from scratch and selling it for a profit.”
In addition to crafting, students gain experience in customer service, communication, and teamwork. Some even step into leadership roles, guiding peers and managing parts of the sales process.
“Watching the interns take on leadership roles and build their confidence is one of the biggest successes,” said Bodeker. “This experience is not just about business—it’s about personal and professional growth.”
Both microenterprises serve as tools for bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. Interns develop problem-solving skills, practice consumer math, and refine their communication abilities, preparing them for the challenges of adulthood.
The success of these microenterprises highlights the innovative spirit of Butler Tech’s Project LIFE. In their first year, both businesses have already made a profit—a testament to the hard work and dedication of the interns and instructors.
As Butler Tech continues to expand its programs, the impact of Project LIFE and its microenterprises is clear: they empower students to reach their full potential, build independence, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Through Project LIFE and its innovative microenterprises, Butler Tech is redefining what’s possible for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. By combining education with opportunity, the program is not just preparing students for the future—it is helping them create it.
The sense of accomplishment students experience when they see what they’re capable of is truly transformative. This feeling of pride and empowerment reflects the dedication and vision behind Project LIFE, as described and supported by instructors like Ashley Angel and Lindsay Bodeker.
