Volunteering

Therapeutic Riding would not be possible without volunteers!  When our special riders are mounted up, their horse will be escorted by a leader while they learn the skills necessary to become independent.  Some riders also require a spotter, who is on the ground and ready to assist at any moment.  Many students have sidewalkers, who have the role of supporting the rider in the saddle.  All of our volunteers are trained for their specific duties, and many become very proficient in their horse handling skills.   

Our Equine Specialist offers regular horsemanship classes for all active volunteers.  At these sessions, we practice connecting with the horse, forming a partnership, communicating clearly and effectively, and, of course, leading the horses. This is also a great opportunity to prepare our "green" horses for therapeutic riding.  These classes are meant to be fun and educational, so if you've ever wanted to learn more about horses but haven't taken lessons, this may be a  perfect opportunity!

To get started you will need to print the forms from the link at the bottom of the page and then call us to let us know that you are interested in volunteering.  Once you have done this we will then have you attend a Volunteer Orientation which will familiarize you with our programs and the facilities here at the farm.

Orientation prepares you to assist in lessons as a sidewalker or spotter.  This basically means that you are walking beside a horse helping a student keep their balance or assisting them with activities and games.  You need no experience to do this, just a little training, which we will provide.



Scroll down to print the Volunteer forms and get through the process a little quicker.  You will need an application and a handbook so please print both of them off and bring them to your orientation training.  If you don't have a printer or are having trouble getting these printed please call us at 704-638-2339. 
Otherwise just click the links below:
*Note: You might need Adobe Reader to access these forms.  If you do not have Adobe Reader, you can download it from the link at the bottom of the page for free.