Volunteer Program Description

Ride for Joy simply could not exist without the help of our wonderful volunteers! Since 2007 over 200 volunteers have provided over 4,000 hours of service to ensure that Ride for Joy can provide lessons to the amazing kids we serve.

Role of Volunteers at Ride for Joy

Most volunteers participate as side walkers and are responsible for spotting and/or providing safety holds for the rider during a lesson. Volunteer side walkers must be physically able to walk and occasionally jog for extended periods in a sand arena and also be able to react quickly to help dismount a child in the event of an emergency.

Some volunteers may also participate in lessons as horse leaders. Horse leaders are responsible for leading and safely managing the horse during a lesson. Volunteers who participate as horse leaders must be at least 18 years of age and are only assigned to this role after having gone through additional evaluation and extensive training.

Other volunteer opportunities are also available, such as helping with the gate, games and music and as greeters. We are also currently recruiting volunteers who would like to help with special events and fundraising.

Time Committment

Regular attendance by volunteers is critical to our ability to provide this valuable service to the children in our program. We ask that volunteers commit to 1-2 hours on one day per week for at least one entire session (sessions range from 4 to 8 weeks).

Click here for Eligibility and Application Process