Empowering Potential, One Donation at a Time
Annual Fund
Who We Are
Shining Hope Farms was 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. Our 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. Our patients and clients find wellness, strength, and hope at Shining Hope Farms.
How We Serve
Therapy Services
We offer physical and occupational therapy, speech-language pathology, and mental health counseling.
Adaptive Riding
Horseback riding lessons for individuals with disabilities for the purpose of contributing positively to their cognitive, physical, emotional, and social well-being.
Veterans Services
Saddles and Salutes is a program at Shining Hope Farms that serves Veterans as a part of their community support system for Veteran wellness.
Our Mission
Shining Hope Farms is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to enable children and adults to reach their full potential through the use of equine assisted activities and therapies.
Our Impact
Through the impact of our volunteers and donors, Shining Hope Farms has been successfully able to make our rehabilitative and recreational programs accessible to our community by making the programs free-of-charge to the majority of participants.
Participants per week across our three locations
Number of volunteers that helped our programs last year
Hours donated by our volunteers last year
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News & Events
A New Space for Hope: Thank You, SolidBuild!
Something very special has taken shape at our Charlotte farm. Our new Hope Shed, a dedicated space designed to expand Shining Hope Farms’ nature-based mental health counseling services, has officially been delivered and assembled—and it was made possible through an...
Celebrating Leadership: Executive Director Patrice Gibson Earns CFRE Credential
We are excited to share that our Executive Director, Patrice Gibson, has officially earned her Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential! Administered by CFRE International, this globally recognized designation signifies excellence, ethics, and mastery in nonprofit fundraising leadership. Patrice’s dedication to expanding her expertise ensures Shining Hope Farms remains sustainable, strong, and focused on creating greater community impact.
Shivay’s Story
Shivay is a spirited kid who was adopted from India at 18 months old. At the time of his adoption, Shivay was unable to walk, and traditional clinic-based therapies did not meet his unique needs. Seeking a more effective approach, his parents turned to physical therapy at Shining Hope Farms, where the natural environment and hippotherapy—a therapy tool utilizing equine movement—offered Shivay a path to progress.
Since beginning physical therapy at Shining Hope Farms, Shivay has made remarkable strides. He has improved his core strength and overall muscle tone, enabling him to engage in activities that were once out of reach. Shivay’s therapy sessions have not only strengthened his body but also brought joy and confidence to his life.
Shivay’s journey is a testament to the power of hope, determination, and the healing bond between humans and animals. At Shining Hope Farms, we are honored to be part of such transformative stories, and with your support, we can continue to help children like Shivay thrive.
Our Sponsors
