Shining Hope Farms

Shining Hope Farms is a nonprofit organization founded in 2002 by Paul and Milinda Kirkpatrick in response to the needs in the community to provide therapeutic services in an enriching natural environment. The purpose of Shining Hope Farms' services are to improve the quality of life of the participants as well as their families. Their programs have been structured to serve individuals and groups with a variety of disabilities such as cerebral palsy, autism, Down syndrome, developmental delay, brain injuries, and genetic disorders, as well as those in need of mental health support. Shining Hope Farms offers physical and occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, and mental health counseling. They also provide adaptive riding horseback riding lessons for individuals with disabilities, contributing positively to their cognitive, physical, emotional, and social well-being. Additionally, they have a program called Saddles and Salutes that serves Veterans as a part of their community support system for Veteran wellness. Shining Hope Farms operates three locations in Mecklenburg, Gaston, and Catawba Counties, offering Hippotherapy at PATH Intl Premier Accredited facilities. Their mission is to enable children and adults to reach their full potential through the use of equine assisted activities and therapies.