| News Release: For Immediate Release |
SHINING HOPE FARMS’ MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING PROGRAM RECEIVES SUPPORT FROM THE CORNING INCORPORATED FOUNDATION
MT. HOLLY, NC [OCTOBER 12, 2023] – Shining Hope Farms is thrilled to announce a significant boost to its mission with a $10,000 grant generously provided by the Corning Incorporated Foundation. Established by Corning Incorporated, this charitable contributions organization strives to foster vibrant, enriching, and supportive Corning communities. The Foundation focuses on education, human services, culture, and volunteerism in Corning business locations. This $10,000 grant will be instrumental in bolstering Shining Hope Farms’ Mental Health Counseling Program, with a specific emphasis on serving at-risk youth. Setting itself apart, this program incorporates equine-assisted psychotherapy (EAP), when suitable, to address clients’ psychotherapy goals. This innovative approach has demonstrated exceptional success in reaching patients who may not respond favorably to traditional therapy methods, thus bridging a vital gap in mental health services. It is particularly beneficial for complex and often resistant patients, along with their families who may feel lost and overwhelmed. At Shining Hope Farms, many individuals seek an alternative therapy option due to previous unsuccessful attempts. Some face complicated circumstances, including those who are verbally resistant, reluctant to engage in traditional therapy conversations. EAP proves to be the ideal solution in these scenarios, as it leverages the equine as a biofeedback tool. Equines’ innate prey nature renders them acutely sensitive to subtle changes in their environment, especially the demeanor of the patient. This unique approach, less direct and non-threatening than conventional therapy, facilitates communication and provides immediate feedback, fostering quick introspection and often yielding immediate adjustments. Shining Hope Farms’ Executive Director Milinda Kirkpatrick stated, “We are deeply appreciative of the Corning Incorporated Foundation’s generous grant. This support allows us to extend our outreach to countless youth in need, making vital services accessible and affordable, particularly for low-income individuals. Together, we are lighting the path to a brighter future for mental health and empowering those who seek healing and hope.”
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About Shining Hope Farms Shining Hope Farms is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to enable children and adults to reach their full potential through the use of equine assisted activities and therapies. Programs provided include physical, occupational, and speech therapy utilizing equine movement as a treatment strategy called hippotherapy. Shining Hope Farms is the only facility offering this treatment strategy in the counties that they operate in. Equine assisted mental health counseling is also offered along with therapeutic riding for children and adults including Veterans. They are a Premier Accredited Center of PATH Intl. (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship, International) as well as a member of the American Hippotherapy Association. Locations include sites in Charlotte, Mt. Holly, and Conover, NC. Between the three locations there are 30+ horses and 50+ staff members consisting of occupational and physical therapists, speech and language pathologists, PATH Intl. certified riding instructors, and administrative staff, plus many wonderful volunteers. Shining Hope Farms is also a GuideStar Exchange Platinum participant, a leading symbol of transparency and accountability among nonprofits. For more information, please visit the website at shininghopefarms.org or call 704-827-3788. About The Corning Incorporated Foundation The Corning Incorporated Foundation is a charitable contributions organization established by Corning Incorporated in 1952. Through leadership and collaboration, the Foundation strives to foster vibrant, enriching, and supportive Corning communities. The Foundation focuses on education, human services, culture, and volunteerism in Corning business locations.
Media Contact: Patrice Gibson, Development Director | (813) 597-9178 | patricegibson@shininghopefarms.org