Volunteering at a therapeutic riding center is one of those rare experiences where you leaveevery shift feeling a little lighter (and maybe a little dustier). It’s a place where small moments, like a rider’s first confident lap or a horse leaning in for a quiet nuzzle - mean everything.
There are so many ways to get involved, and each role plays a big part in creating those moments!
As a Horse Lead, you’re right at the heart of the action, guiding the horse and helping create a calm, steady ride.
Side Walkers are the ultimate cheer squad, walking along side riders to provide support, encouragement, and the occasional well-timed joke or high five.
If you prefer behind-the-scenes magic, Barn Help keeps everything running smoothly, feeding, grooming, tacking up, and making sure the horses are happy and healthy.
And for those who love storytelling, Social Media Support helps share these incredible stories with the world, spreading awareness and bringing more people into the community.
No matter the role, every volunteer becomes part of something special, a team built oncompassion, connection, and a shared love for horses and people. It’s not just volunteering...it’s showing up, making a difference, and being part of a place where everyone belongs.
Volunteering with a therapeutic riding organization is all about making a difference—no horse experience required! Just bring your enthusiasm, a willingness to learn, and a love for helping others, and you’ll be part of something truly rewarding!
We welcome younger volunteers too!
Here is an informative manual that helps answer any questions you may have! It also covers all voluteer roles so you can find the best fit for you!
Reach out to join, volunteer, or learn more. We’d love to connect with you!
Explore common questions about volunteering with the therapeutic riding program, what to expect, and how we create a welcoming space for every rider.
We are happy to answer any questions you have in order to see if volunteering with Journeys is a good fit for you. Check out our volunteer manual or contact us directly for any questions.
You can find answers to most of your questions by following us on Facebook! We try and keep our page upto date with the latest events, pictures and news.
The safety of our riders, volunteers and horses is our number one priority. Training is provided to all volunteers, and is tailored to your ability. New volunteers are paired with experienced volunteers until we are confident of your skills. An orientation session is held annually and all volunteers are encouraged to attend. A volunteer manual is provided to each volunteer to help with learning.
Journeys volunteers need to be able to work in a team environment and follow the directions of the instructor and/or team leader. Additionally, experience working with horses is preferred and the ability to run for short bursts with the horse and rider is required. Experience working with people with special needs is beneficial but not a pre-requisite. Our students have a wide range of needs and we will match you according to your experience.
PLEASE NOTE: We do have other volunteer opportunities for those who prefer not to work in an arena setting or with horses. Please contact us for more information.
During a typical Journeys day there are 6 classes each lasting an hour. This translates into about 1.5 hours per class for a volunteer. Some volunteers sign up for up to 3 classes during the day while others are available for 1 class because of other commitments. We appreciate all contributions of time, and understand that volunteers are usually busy people. All we ask is that you give the volunteer coordinator as much notice as possible, whenever you are not able to attend, in order to allow for replacement volunteers to be lined up.
Contact us here or by messaging via the Journeys Facebook page.
Still have questions? Reach out—we’re happy to help.
Check out the available apparel and swag available from JTRS
