Volunteers

We are so pleased that you want to become a volunteer at Ride With Pride. Volunteers are the backbone of our therapeutic riding program for individuals with disabilities and at-risk populations. Most of our students cannot ride without the physical, emotional, and psychological support of their volunteers. An instructor and a team of three volunteers may be needed for an individual with a disability to ride safely. The expense of two to three additional people, as well as the cost of the lesson itself, would put this activity out of reach for all by a very few. While the volunteer brings enthusiasm, free time, and dedication to the purpose of a therapeutic riding program, it is the volunteer’s understanding, observations, and spirit of cooperation that assists in bringing the team together. 

Dedicated people from all walks of life team up to give the individuals with special needs an opportunity to experience a sport that can make a difference in their physical and mental well-being. Though some volunteers find their way to Ride With Pride individually, many of our volunteers can come from community organizations, area colleges, high schools as well as local corporations and businesses.

Our goal is to provide a volunteer team for each rider, so both the riders and volunteers can benefit from continuity and establish a lasting relationship of trust with one another. Moreover, volunteers will be able to share knowledge, guidance, patience, and love with the rider. A professional safety-conscious and encouraging manner brings feelings of joy and accomplishment for all those involved.

Volunteer Handbook - click here

Volunteer Opportunities

Lesson Volunteer – weekly lessons lasting one hour, assist with grooming and tacking up of horses, assist clients, leading horses and sidewalking to support clients

Horse Show Volunteer – registration and concessions, set-up and take down, getting horses and riders ready, leading horses and sidewalking with clients

Trail Ride Volunteer – set up and take down, registration, check-out and check-in at the trail head, food

Concessions – arranging for and/or supplying baked goods and other foods, help with the concession stand at shows

Fundraising – planning for various fundraising events, creating flyers

Foundation Grant Writing – assisting with researching available grants and grant writing

Schooling Horses – limited availability for experienced riders, helping test out new horses or helping them adjust to their jobs, helping seasoned horses avoid burn-out

Public Relations/Marketing – newsletters, brochure/flyer distribution, public speaking, manning tables at fairs or other public events

Barn Help – helping with barn chores and basic horse maintenance, maintaining our work area and equipment

Trailering – to shows, vets, moving horses to/from other farms