VOLUNTEERS - CAN'T DO WITHOUT THEM!!
The EAAT program could not exist without the help of volunteers. When a new rider, or any riders needing more assistance, are on the horse, they require at least three volunteers plus an instructor. When there are three riders in a lesson, it means we will need a minimum of nine volunteers during that hour. What do the volunteers do? Typically there are two jobs that volunteers perform during lessons.
Horse Leaders: These are volunteers that are assigned to leading a horse during lessons. They
are responsible for the horse while allowing the rider to do as much of the directing and cuing of the
horse as they can. Leaders must be able to listen to the directions of the instructor while watching
the rider out of the corner of their eye, and then assisting the horse as needed. Leaders need to help
keep the horse at a manageable speed. In an emergency, it is the leader's responsibility to keep
they horse under control while the rider is dismounted, and then move the horse to a safe distance.
Sidewalkers: These are volunteers that are assigned to assist the
riders as needed. They walk on either side of the horse at the rider's
leg providing physical, mental, verbal, and/or emotional
help. Sidewalkers are responsible for keeping the rider safely on
the horse and removing them from the horse in an emergency.
Other volunteer positions:
* teaching unmounted ground lessons
* doing chores (feed, turn-out, stall cleaning)
* schooling/conditioning the horses (after volunteering for a minimum of
20 hours during lessons)
* being on a committee
* helping at fundraising events
* doing public speaking
* helping unload hay to the mow
* office help
We are always in need of new volunteers. If you are interested and at least 14 years old, please check our list of events for the next Volunteer Training. Then, call us at 419-332-6900 for more information. Below is the link to our Volunteer Forms. If interested in volunteering, please download the forms, complete and mail them to us. VETERAN VOLUNTEERS: please complete a set each year prior to starting back with us.
