Our Mission Statement

Mephibosheth Farms Angelic Riders, Inc., is a non-profit therapeutic riding center dedicated to improving the lives of the differently-abled of our community and surrounding area, bringing those involved better health, happiness, confidence and quality of life.

Mephibosheth Farms is a non-profit therapeutic horse back riding facility for differently-abled people in Union County and surrounding areas. We are dedicated to improving the lives of people with developmental disabilities by providing them with opportunities to experience the therapeutic benefits of horse back riding. Nationally recognized by PATH (Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship), Mephibosheth Farms works to improve such things as balance, coordination, confidence, and the quality of life of our riders. In addition to these physical benefits, riders also experience emotional benefits from the new relationships formed with our well trained staff, volunteers, and animals!

In addition to helping those in need of the therapeutic riding benefits, Mehphibosheth Farms also provides horsemanship skills and riding lessons for able-bodied of all ages. The Horsemanship 101 Program addresses all aspects of horsemanship from catching the horse to putting it away. No matter what you're looking for, whether it be riding lessons, a tune up for your horse, or simply somewhere to get away and ride, Mephibosheth has it!

How We Got Here

Mephibosheth Farms began operation August 2002 with just two riders. Located in Wingate, North Carolina, Mephibosheth Farms can be found approximately one mile off hwy. 74 tucked away from the major roads in a peaceful setting of pastures and open sky. Executive Director and Instructor Michael Harris resides at the farm with his wife Ruby and their four dogs. They purchased the land in 1993 but it wasn’t until 2002 that God laid upon their hearts what His true intention was with this land. Given one horse in 1994, Michael started giving riding lessons in 1999, and after visiting another therapeutic center realized the true purpose of the farm.

The Story Behind The Name

The name Mephibosheth comes from the Bible in the book of 2 Samuel. Mephibosheth was Saul’s grandson who was lame in his feet at age five. When David came upon the throne, Mephibosheth feared for his life when David summoned him. Mephibosheth thought that because of his disability and family David would kill him. However, David showed mercy and honored Mephibosheth by letting him sit at his table for the rest of his life. (2 Samuel 4:4, 19:26)

Then Jesus said, "Come to me all who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28