Historic Virginia farm listed for $8.4m to fund riding programme for disabled
A historic Virginia farm, Wheatland Equestrian, is being sold for $8.4 million to secure the long-term future of its inclusive riding program for disabled individuals. The organization, founded in 1999, provides therapeutic and para-dressage training to riders of all abilities.
Why it matters
The sale highlights how non-profit organizations are leveraging real estate assets to sustain long-term social and therapeutic services.
What began as a family's search for meaningful opportunities for children with disabilities eventually grew into a nationally recognised equestrian programme. In 1999, Mark and Muriel Forrest established the Faith & Family Foundation, laying the groundwork for what would become Wheatland Equestrian in Virginia. Their idea was built around a simple principle: riders with disabilities should have access to the same quality of coaching, competition and community as other riders. Over the years, the programme expanded from a small family-centred operation into an inclusive equestrian organisation serving riders with and without disabilities. Now, the historic property where that mission grew is taking on a different role, as its real estate value will support the organisation's long-term future. According to Wheatland Equestrian, the Forrests founded the Faith & Family Foundation in 1999, drawing on their own family experiences and Muriel's background with horses.
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