In 2003 Larry Boudrie started the process of creating the SHEPHERD'S CENTER-BEACHSIDE, INC. Representatives from six local churches (Ascension Lutheran, Holy Name of Jesus Catholic, Satellite Beach United Methodist, St. Mark's United Methodist, Holy Apostles Episcopal and Our Father's House) met to discuss the basic concept of offering a wide range of information and educational classes to older residents utilizing the skills and knowledge of local resident instructors - hence the beginning of the Shepherd's Center-Beachside.

 

Soon thereafter, the State of Florida and the Internal Revenue Service granted the Shepherd's Center-Beachside, Inc. a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit educational corporation status.  Eastminster Presbyterian and Immaculate Conception Catholic followed as church sponsors and joined the consortium.  Over time, Our Father's House withdrew for financial reasons.  Each of the current seven churches appoints one member that serves on the Shepherd's Center Board of Trustees.  The trustees elect the director who leads and administers the activities of the Shepherd's Center.

 

During the spring of 2004 the first Shepherd's Center classes started at Ascension Lutheran Church.  The structure of that first session consisted of one day with seven classes continuing for eight weeks.  Forty-two people participated.  On the 10th Anniversary, Spring 2014, the program covered two days offering 42 classes over the eight week session.  That Spring, 355 "senior students" participated while the preceding Winter term enrolled 451 participants.  

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After fourteen years of growing his "baby to adulthood," Larry Boudrie officially retired on June 1, 2017.

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