Two teenage girls fled a bad home situation and needed a place to stay. The Shipmans immediately opened their home to these young ladies and began looking for a long-term solution.
After months of searching, Ed and Gloria found many options for children with behavioral problems or mental and emotional issues. But they couldn’t believe how few resources existed for underprivileged children with high potential. Eventually, they did find a healthy solution for the girls. But their difficult experience gave them a sense of God’s direction for the rest of their lives.
One year later, Ed and Gloria launched Happy Hill Farm out of a mobile home in Granbury, Texas. Ed shared, “We wanted to provide a safe, secure place for underprivileged boys and girls … a place to discover their God-given potential and build a successful future!”
As we reflect on the past 50 years, we are reminded that none of this would have been possible without the support of faithful friends like you. Your generosity has allowed us to reach children who have never heard the Gospel and provide them with opportunities they would never have had otherwise.
Today, we ask you to stand with us as we look toward the future.
Please consider donating to help continue this important work for the next generation of boys and girls who come to Happy Hill Farm seeking hope, love, and opportunity.
Thank you for your continued support. Together, we can make an eternal difference in the lives of these children.
Happy Hill Farm and North Central Texas Academy (NCTA) are here to help children reach their God-given potential. It all begins with a world-class, college-preparatory education at NCTA.
But Happy Hill Farm gives every child far more than academics. Through our unique working farm/campus; spiritual development; and sports, music, and art programs, these precious boys and girls develop strong character and a Christian worldview.
Ultimately, our graduates go on to college and from there to thriving careers. They become leaders in their communities and churches … men and women of integrity who will indelibly impact the world.
Meet our students and watch their stories below.
Sergei has a passion for soccer and joined in leading the boy’s soccer team to this year’s state championship. He arrived at Happy Hill Farm after a difficult year at home. Here he not only received a quality education but also the emotional support and guidance he needed. The nurturing environment of Happy Hill Farm has allowed Sergej to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Laura is actively involved in our youth ministry and school choir, and she is already planning to “pay it forward” by helping other children access the same opportunities she has received. Laura shares, “Some kids don’t have the opportunity to be as fortunate as I have been, and I want to be their voice and help them find good high schools and good colleges to attend.”
Abi, Jordyn, Jenna, and Ty are members of our Floriculture Team! Floriculture is not just about arranging flowers; it’s a comprehensive program that equips students with invaluable skills in plant identification, floral design, problem-solving, and leadership development. This four-person FFA team competes in events that are meticulously crafted to prepare them for the floriculture industry, both now and in the future.
Nikita is not only an outstanding student but also a remarkably talented basketball player. Nikita played a pivotal role in the success of our basketball team this past season. His dedication and skill on the court are truly impressive, and he aspires to continue his athletic and academic journey in an American college after his senior year.
Katie is 15 years old and first came to the Farm four years ago. She’s grown from a shy, young child to a confident young woman. Katie shares that one of the biggest changes is her relationship with God. She helps lead worship for Wednesday chapel and Sunday service, and she feels like that has helped take her out of her comfort zone and helped her grow spiritually.
When he first came to us three years ago, Kevin was facing a lot of family struggles—struggles that most likely would have kept him from getting very far in life—but he’s been able to turn his life around—thanks to the prayers and support of friends like you.
We get asked all the time, “What’s life like at Happy Hill Farm for a young girl or boy?” So, we recently set out to capture a day in the life of a Happy Hill Farm student, Kristin. Follow along with Kristin as she shares with you what a normal day in her life is like.
Your are invited to follow along with Liuda, a student at Happy Hill Farm, as she takes you on a tour of our school. The Academy plays a key role in educating, training, and inspiring children from all backgrounds to reach their God-given potential and become leaders with character and integrity.
Meet Benedicte — She is from Cameroon and has been at Happy Hill Farm for three years. She loves horses! When she first came to Happy Hill Farm, she was terrified of the horses. But she conquered her fear and came to love riding and caring for horses.
Korede came to Happy Hill Farm for what she thought was just an opportunity to play basketball for North Central Texas Academy. Little did she know, she would experience so much more.
Lindsey came to the farm at the beginning of 4th grade. The lessons Lindsey and the other students learn while they are here are invaluable — and help prepare them for their lives as adults. Join Lindsey as she takes you on a tour of her residence.
We recently celebrated the unveiling of the Ed Shipman Memorial Highway. We are honored to share this special message sent to us by the Jones family to recognize this momentous occasion. Thank you for your friendship and support — and for your kind words about Ed Shipman.