VolunteerVolunteer with Us: Be Part of Something Special!
At High Horses, volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. Your time, energy, and passion help us bring together the healing power of horses and the human spirit. Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or simply looking to make a meaningful contribution, there’s a place for you on our team. Together, we create a supportive, vibrant community of clients, horses, and volunteers. We are deeply grateful for each volunteer's unique contribution.
Volunteer Opportunities: Find Your Perfect Fit
Here’s how you can help us make a difference:
BARN CHORES – Everyday, All Year Round
When: 8:00 AM - 9:30 AM & 3:00 PM - 5:30 PM (365 days/year)
Tasks Include: Leading horses to and from turnout, feeding horses grain and hay, mucking stalls, and filling/emptying water buckets.
Qualifications: Volunteers must be able to wheel a wheelbarrow, lift buckets, and shovel manure/shavings. Horse experience is preferred but not required. Volunteers requiring additional support or supervision are welcome but will need caregiver/guardian supervision during barn chores.
Why start here? All volunteers begin by helping with barn chores. It's the best way to familiarize yourself with the farm and our amazing therapy horses.
PROGRAM SUPPORT: Help Us Offer Healing, One Lesson at a Time
Sidewalking: Sidewalkers provide physical support for clients during lessons or therapy sessions. You’ll walk alongside the horse, offering assistance based on the client's needs.
Qualifications:
Ability to walk comfortably over uneven ground for 30-45 minutes.
Ability to hear communication from the therapist or instructor.
Physically capable of supporting the client using therapeutic techniques (training will be provided).
Horse Handling: Horse handlers assist with grooming and tacking up therapy horses before sessions. You’ll arrive at least 30 minutes early to prepare the horse and ensure it's ready for the session. After the horse is tacked and led into the arena, you may step into a sidewalking role or provide additional support as needed.
Qualifications:
Horse experience preferred.
Comfortable leading the horse to/from the stall.
Able to walk several laps around the arena.
Understand horse body language.
Ability to identify signs of injury or illness during preparation.
Must meet sidewalker qualifications.
SPECIAL EVENTS – Support Our Community Outreach
Throughout the year, we host special events that require volunteers to assist with brainstorming, organization, set-up, and takedown. Whether you have a knack for event planning, logistics, or just want to lend a hand, we’d love to have you on our team for these special occasions!
ADDITIONAL TASKS – Flexible Support When You Have Time
If your schedule doesn’t align with regular barn chores or program offerings, there are always other ways to help around the farm! These tasks may include general cleaning, grooming horses, organizing, or performing maintenance around the property. Almost every task can be adapted to meet individual needs, whether you have additional support requirements or physical limitations.
We also welcome groups of volunteers, such as those from local organizations, schools, or businesses, to help with these tasks. This can be a meaningful and impactful way for groups to give back to the community and support our programs together.
If you’re interested in helping with additional tasks or organizing a group volunteer day, please reach out to us at volunteer@highhorses.org.
Training and Support
We provide all volunteers with an orientation and ongoing training opportunities to help you feel confident in your role. You don’t need prior experience with horses—just a willingness to learn and contribute. We’ll be there to support you every step of the way with guidance and friendly feedback.
Check out our next Volunteer Workshop below!
Ready to Get Started?
Step 1: Complete our Volunteer Application.
Step 2: Schedule your General Orientation with our Volunteer Coordinator.
Step 3: Begin making a difference and connect with our community!
We cannot wait to welcome you into our volunteer family!
For more information or questions, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator at volunteer@highhorses.org.