Step Into Their Boots.
Experience the Journey.
The Shepherd's Heart Experience Lab combines interactive storytelling and hands-on exhibits to transport you into the reality of a veteran navigating the transition back home.
Walk A Mile In Austin's Story
The Experience Lab isn't just a space to observe—it's an interactive journey. Through the specific narrative of one veteran, Austin, you will experience the physical, mental, and financial challenges faced by those who have served. This guided, hands-on exhibit transforms understanding into empathy, and empathy into action.
Meet Austin
Begin your journey at our 3D hologram booth to meet Austin, explore his support network, and trace his deployments across a raised, interactive map.
The Weight of Service
Pick up a rucksack and feel the literal and metaphorical weight of service. You will load your pack with blocks representing the mental toll of combat, and carry it across a rugged, 3-dimensional terrain simulating Austin's hike.
Insecurity At Home
Transition to the General Store and try to balance Austin's monthly paycheck. You'll face the harsh reality of budgeting for housing, medical needs, and food without going over budget.
Finding Solutions
Discover how Shepherd's Heart steps in to help. At our interactive Resource Center kiosk, match physical objects representing Austin's challenges to the screen to unlock information on the specific resources that changed his life.
A Bigger Picture
Before you leave, stand before a massive display of military dog tags. As Austin's illuminated tag glows among the rest, you'll see that his story is just one piece of the much larger work Shepherd's Heart does for veterans across all branches of service.
Designed for All Ages
We believe empathy starts early. The Experience Lab is open and accessible to families, featuring the Shepherd's Heart Play Space—a dedicated children's playhouse designed to look like the Shepherd's Heart logo right in the heart of the exhibit.
Honor, Remember, and Give
Conclude your visit at our Flag Donation Wall. Here, you can write a message honoring a family member who served on a magnetic token, place it on our perforated metal flag, and make a donation to support the next veteran in need. Can't make it to the facility? Look for our double-sided mobile kiosk at pop-up events around the city to experience a piece of Austin's Story on the go.
Coming in 2028!
Location: Pittsburgh location to be announced
Admission: Free, but reservations are required.
Groups: Ideal for school trips, corporate outings, and youth groups. Contact us to coordinate your visit.