Volunteer

Community support is a fundamental part of building a successful program. H.O.R.S.E. appreciates the help and participation of all members of our community.

Volunteers are vital to the program and without them we do not ride! We need volunteers to groom and tack horses, walk beside disabled riders with poor balance or lead horses. No previous experience with horses or disabilities is necessary – you will be taught everything you need to know. Anyone can volunteer!

H.O.R.S.E. requires that all volunteers participate in a basic training session to learn horse care, safety procedures and disability awareness. Volunteer training sessions are normally scheduled once a month and last approximately 3 hours. Prospective volunteers must sign up in advance for training sessions.

How to Get Started

If you are interested in volunteering for H.O.R.S.E., please come by and watch a few lessons. This will give you the chance to see exactly what is expected of our volunteers and if it is something you really want to get involved with! The next step is to sign up for a volunteer training session; in the meantime we will “buddy” you up with an experienced H.O.R.S.E. volunteer. Please remember to dress comfortably, wear sturdy shoes (no open toes or open heels), a cap or sunglasses and be prepared to walk for up to an hour or two.

For continuity and training purposes we ask each volunteer to commit to a 1 to 4 hour time slot each week. We also expect our volunteers to call in plenty of time if they cannot make their regular time – we rely on our volunteers – without them we cannot ride! Please call (432) 634-8725 or (432) 631-5401.

Volunteers also assist with special events such as fundraisers. We always need help with office work, special events, ranch work, and gardening. Wherever your talents lie, there’s a place for you to help others at H.O.R.S.E.!

Riding lessons are available for volunteers at a nominal fee and we also offer continuing education including topics such as general horse care.

Other Ways To Help

Volunteer for therapeutic riding classes and hippotherapy classes

Fundraising for H.O.R.S.E. programs

Donations of:
• Saddles
• Bridles
• Blankets
• Buckets
• Or other equipment…
• Arena Equipment such as barrels, poles, railroad ties, etc.

 

CARING,
COMPASSIONATE
HELP

J'Von

"My horse wants to know me and he loves me just like I am. He is stubborn like me, but he teaches me to be calm, not get mad and to be nice. Buddy taught me to keep trying and not give up on him or on people. Because of Buddy, I am able to love and be loved. I am now adopted and I have a mom and a place to call home. Thank you Buddy" - J'Von , Age 7

Volunteer

“I have been witness to these horses helping me deal with life’s problems."
- Volunteer

LJ

“LJ is on the autism spectrum. He was also born with Chromosome 4 and has now been diagnosed with ADHD. LJ has difficulties with self-regulation. He would have several meltdowns a week in school and home. Since he started Equine Therapy in November his issues with self-regulation have decreased greatly. Jodie has taught him Tai’Chi movements on the horses to help him self-regulate. LJ has learned how to use these methods at home , in the classroom and in dance. His teachers at school and his dance instructors have been amazed at how much his self-regulation has improved. Equine therapy has been a lifesaver!” – Parent

Ella

“Ella has moderate sensory issues and was born with FAS. Ella was having trouble with potty training and sensory issues. Within two months of starting Equine therapy she was completely potty trained. Her teachers have noted that she is more calm and self-requlated. Equine therapy has helped with her self-confidence. She loves it!” - Parent