The inspiration was simple. We quickly outgrew our previous farm, and our new location provides the chance for our organization to broaden our reach and strengthen our facilities. But we need your help to accomplish our goals. 

Our organization exists today because of the generosity of others, and we are blessed from the help of those who believe in our ministry.

Shining Stars embraces the connection God has created between humans and horses, and we believe we can continue to be a refuge for those who need help. We are grateful for over 20 years of ministry we have provided to our community and individuals with physical and mental disabilities.

Our small farm of 13 acres served us well over several years but as the need in our community grew, we too grew. The need for a larger space provided us with a unique opportunity to purchase a 60-acre horse farm with room to grow for years to come.

Through interactions with horses, therapeutic horsemanship programs improve physical strength, coordination, and balance while enhancing emotional, social, and cognitive development. Studies have shown that equine-assisted therapy can help reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress and can also improve self-esteem, self-confidence, and communication skills. Working with horses also promotes responsibility, empathy, and trust, which can be particularly valuable for individuals with special needs who may struggle with these areas.

Because of the continuous need for our services, the choice to expand our facilities was simple – we just need your help to make it happen. 

The Shining Stars Therapeutic Riding Program Unbridled Future Capital Campaign is a $7.2 million effort to design and build a brand new 38,000 square foot facility to meet our growing needs and serve our community.

This campaign began in October of 2022 when we purchased a 60-acre horse farm at the intersection of Centennial and Bon-Ox Roads. Thanks to the generosity of our community, we own this property free and clear. This is the perfect location for us to serve people from Gettysburg, Hanover, and surrounding communities.

We broke ground on our new facility in the Spring of 2026. We are approaching the project in phases so that our community’s generous donations are directed towards building costs rather than mortgage interest.

Phase 1:

• This phase encompasses essential site work, including stormwater management, accessible parking lots, and a paved entrance. It will also feature client and office spaces, an accessible bathroom, a welcoming veterans’ space, one of our 100’x200’ outdoor arenas, and the construction of the indoor arena shell. We made minimal repairs to the existing barn at our new property, allowing us to relocate our herd and offices there.

• When complete, we will host outdoor classes and trainings at our new property. Completion of this phase will allow us to sell our current 13-acre farm and leverage its equity to support this campaign. We will continue transporting horses to our current indoor arena at Freedom Valley Church.

• Cost: $4.7 million

Phase Two:

• This phase will include an accessible barn with 22 horse stalls, tack room, veterinary room, grooming stalls, and new pasture fencing.

• When complete, our horses will move into comfortable stalls that will keep them happy, healthy, and ready to help our participants.

• Cost: $1 million

Phase Three:

• This phase will consist of an indoor arena (big enough to host two programs simultaneously), a cart storage barn (connected to the indoor arena to provide easy access during inclement weather), hay and equipment storage facilities, playground, and our second 100’x200’ outdoor arena.

• When complete, Shining Stars’ goal of having all programs, offices, and horses stored at one location will be realized. The completed facility will give Shining Stars the ability to grow and serve even more people in our community.

• Cost: $1.5M

For more information about the capital campaign and how you can get involved, contact Ben Hansford, Development Director, at 717-451-8325 or ben@sstrmail.org.