Helping Hands

Volunteer at Grace

There are several ways to volunteer at Grace Therapeutic Riding, all of which require training. Check out our Volunteer Opportunities and Frequently Asked Questions below. We're happy to answer any questions you may have!

Sidewalker

Sidewalkers are at least 16 years old. They walk next to the participant during sessions and assist with safety and activities. They must be able to comfortably walk next to a horse while supporting a participant.
Horse leader

Horse leaders are at least 16 years old. They must have some horse experience and go through house leading training. The horse leader is focused on the horse and how the horse is reacting to the session. Knowing the horse and its cues are necessary for this position.
Groomer/Tacker

Groomers must be at least 14 years old. These volunteers are responsible for assisting the team in grooming and completing tack changes on the horses.
Greeter

Volunteer greeters meet participants in the spectator box and help direct them where they need to go. They also help with some extra projects as needed.
Horse work

Volunteers who have horse riding experience who help with conditioning and training the herd. This includes regular exercise, prepping the horse for the weekly activity, and desensitizing the new activities and new participants.
What type of time commitment do I need to make to Grace?

In order to maximize the benefit to the participants for each session Grace strives to create a consistent care team for each participant. Ideally we ask that you commit to at least a 2 hour time slot on the schedule, and we encourage you to continue to volunteer on an ongoing basis. We utilize Sign Up Genius for scheduling.
Do I have to make it a weekly commitment?

If you are unable to make a weekly commitment but still like to volunteer, you can sign up via Sign Up Genius for the timing that works for you, and also let us know on your volunteer information sheet. We always need substitute volunteers to cover volunteer schedule gaps and volunteer cancellations.
What if I can’t make it to my scheduled volunteer session?

Please notify us as soon as you know you will be absent and try to find your own replacement. If you need to cancel within 48 hours of your shift please contact the volunteer coordinator by either text or email.
What if Grace cancels sessions?

Grace occasionally cancels sessions due to inclement weather conditions, extreme cold/heat advisory, or illness of instructors. Volunteers will be individually notified via text message in case of any cancellations.
When do I arrive at the barn?

Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled time. Find your name tag in the spectators box and enter the prep area to start preparing for the session. This may include help with setting up the session in the arena, prep for the participant, getting the horse out, groomed, and tacked.
What should I expect during, between, and after the participant session?

Assist with setting out tack and tacking horses in time for the next session. Keep the arena free of manure. Sweep as needed and be available to assist the instructors as needed. At the end of the day, make sure all tack is put away. Grooming supplies are back where they belong. A final sweep of the barn. Assist with putting horses away. Please refer to your volunteer manual for more information about Grace Therapeutic Riding and being a volunteer. Please let us know if we can assist you in any other way to make this the best part of your day. We appreciate all of our volunteers!