Kopper Top Life Learning Center
Liberty, North Carolina
Kopper Top Life Learning Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Liberty, North Carolina that uses animal-assisted recreational therapy and relies heavily on volunteers. Its mission is to "empower, enable and enhance the quality of life for individuals with special needs." Its programs include horseback riding for children and adults with or without disabilities, Special Olympics equestrian training and a summer day camp for children.
- Healing HOOVES horseback riding program
- Horse care and handling instruction
- Special Olympics equestrian training
- Camp FreeSpirit summer day camp
- Healing PAAWS animal visits to nursing homes
- Vocational training and internships
- Farm tours and birthday parties
- Community service opportunities
- Children
- Adults
- People with special needs or disabilities
- People without disabilities
- Special Olympics athletes
- Nursing home residents
More about this center
About the Program
In the Healing HOOVES program, participants learn to care for, handle and ride horses. The center describes its work as recreational, so it is a fit for families looking for therapeutic riding rather than clinical therapy.
Kopper Top also trains athletes for the equestrian competition at the Special Olympics North Carolina games, held each year in Raleigh. Its Healing PAAWS program brings dogs, cats and rabbits to visit people in the community, including regular visits to nursing homes in the Burlington and Greensboro area.
Camp FreeSpirit
Camp FreeSpirit is a half-day summer day camp. Campers learn horse care, safety, grooming, tacking and riding. The center's website says the camp accepts children ages 2 and up.
Staff and Volunteers
A volunteer board of directors governs the center, and Deborah Meridith is the executive director. Volunteers help with daily farm tasks and assist riders on horseback. Students from Elon University have volunteered there through the Kernodle Center for Civic Life.
Fundraising events, gifts, grants and donations make up the largest share of the center's annual revenue. The center received its federal tax exemption in 1997.
Location
Kopper Top Life Learning Center is on a farm at 6657 Kimesville Rd, Liberty, NC 27298. Its Healing PAAWS visits serve nursing homes in the Burlington and Greensboro area.
From public records, not yet reviewed by the center · Last updated Oct 2026 Suggest an edit
Common Questions
Answered from the center’s own website and public records.
How do I sign up for riding lessons?
The center's website, koppertop.org, invites families to get in touch about lessons or volunteering.
How much do lessons cost?
The center says riders pay discounted lesson fees that cover only part of its operating costs, and a limited number of scholarships are available for families who need help with the cost. Contact the center for current rates, or read our guide to equine therapy costs.
What ages does Kopper Top serve?
The center serves children and adults. Camp FreeSpirit accepts children ages 2 and up.
Location
Liberty, North Carolina 27298
Questions to Ask When You Call
The center is the best source for these answers.
- Are you running now, and taking new riders?Start here. We couldn’t confirm a current schedule.
- Which ages and needs do you work with?Ask about experience with your rider’s specific condition.
- Is a licensed PT, OT or speech therapist involved?Therapist-led hippotherapy is usually the only kind insurance may cover.
- What does a session cost, and are there scholarships?Many nonprofit programs offer sliding scales or sponsored spots.
- Do you have a mounting ramp or lift?Important for riders who use a wheelchair or need help mounting.