Volunteer
Volunteers are the HEART of our program and a vital part of our mission to provide a rewarding experience and enhance the quality of life for special needs individuals in our community. As a volunteer, you will be part of a professional team. Our goal is to establish a volunteer team for each rider to build a relationship of trust with one another. We work hard, but we also have fun and therapeutic riding, done in a professional and safety-conscious manner, brings feelings of joy and accomplishment to all those involved, and you as a volunteer play a key role in making this happen!
Why Volunteer?
You can witness a rider accomplishing a task for the very first time or see the excitement on a rider’s face when they greet their horse every week or help riders gain confidence, they never knew they had! Volunteers are part of a caring family that supports, protects and encourages each rider to excel to the best of their ability. You are changing lives one rider at a time, and don’t be surprised if it changes your life too.
Volunteer Requirements
- Must be at least 14 years of age and work independently
- Must complete a volunteer application and pass a background check
- Must attend a New Volunteer training/orientation
- Must have prior horse handling experience (for Horse Leader applicants only)
Volunteer Roles
SIDE WALKER
A side walker stays beside the horse and is responsible for assisting the rider during class as directed by the instructor. You may be asked to provide physical support, encouragement, or instruction reinforcement (can be challenging at times). This role is for those who want to work one on one with the rider.
HORSE LEADER
A horse leader’s main responsibility is to control the horse during class. Horse leaders must be able to walk briskly at times, keep a safe distance from other riders, and maintain a good pace, direction and speed all the while allowing your rider to feel like they are in control. Horse Leaders must have prior horse handling experience and be approved by our Equine Manager and Lead Instructor.
GROUP OPPORTUNITIES
If you are part of an organization, business, church or civic group and want to volunteer together, we have on site projects we need assistance with from time to time or if your group has a project idea, would like to sponsor a rider or one of our therapy horses, just give us a call. We would love for you to get involved!
