Our team of dedicated volunteers, highly trained certified instructors and gentle horses allow us to provide therapeutic horseback riding and carriage driving lessons to children and adults with special needs. We are privileged to work with a caring, patient and strong community of people. As a volunteer with River Valley Riders, you are a partner in our mission “to create a supportive community where people with special needs connect with horses and experience life-changing benefits."
LOCATION
Volunteer at our Afton facility, with indoor and outdoor arenas and scenic trails in the beautiful St. Croix River valley area.
TRAINING - Required for new volunteers
For more information about the next volunteer training session: www.rivervalleyriders.org/volunteers
OPPORTUNITIES
River Valley Riders provides services from mid-April through early-November at our facility in Afton. Volunteer once per week for the full season or choose which of the 8-10 week sessions work for you (spring, summer, or fall). Volunteer shifts are 1-3 hours during your choice of Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday evenings.
The primary volunteer role is walking alongside the participant as they ride their horse during the lesson. “Sidewalkers” follow direction from PATH Intl. certified instructors to support the rider as they perform the lesson skill or activity while promoting their independence and are VITAL for rider success. Volunteers with horse experience may have the opportunity to be part of the team by leading the horse during the lesson.
Our carriage driving program offers volunteer opportunities to help get the horse ready for the lesson and assist the participant during their lesson.
There are many additional ways to donate your time and talent to help us achieve our mission including: photography, creative writing, fundraising, gardening, and more!
REQUIREMENTS
- Attend a new volunteer training session. For more information.
- Minimum age is 14 years.
- Sidewalkers and horse leaders must have the ability to stand/walk for up to 45 minutes on uneven ground/sand. Also to be able to jog for for short distances (up to 150 feet).
- Need to enjoy outdoors and ability to dress for a variety of weather.
- A friendly personality and a desire to help people and support the RVR mission “to create a supportive community where people with special needs connect with horses and experience life-changing benefits.”
WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?
- Experience for those exploring careers in special education, physical therapy, social work, etc. in a fun, team approach environment
- Great exercise in a scenic setting
- Horse time!
- Gain school-required service hours
- Volunteer with a friend or family member!
- Personal satisfaction from making a difference in the lives of people with special needs and their families.
WHAT’S NEXT?
Visit www.rivervalleyriders.org/volunteers for more information.
Questions? Contact info@rivervalleyriders.org or call 651-439-2558.
