volunteer manual introduction
Welcome to our center and thank you for participating in the Volunteer Program at SeaPony Farm. Our volunteers are an integral part of the success of the program. As a Volunteer, you will give of your time, your energy, your compassion, and your desire to help give the gift of horseback riding to a population of our community that would otherwise be unable to enjoy the companionship as well as gain the therapeutic advantages from our equine friends.
We welcome one and all as vital members of our program. Volunteer opportunities do not require special horsemanship or medical skills. However, the Center will provide all the necessary training and guidance which will be necessary for the experience to be both safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Please feel free to email us at volunteers@seaponyfarm.com, with any questions about becoming a Volunteer.
A Volunteer manual will be provided to you. The manual will give you an overview of the program and should serve as your guide and resource manual with regard to the expectations of the program for its volunteers. If you have any questions or concerns at any time regarding your volunteer role, please do not hesitate to speak with the Program Director or staff.
To make sure we provide the safest environment possible for everyone participating in the program, new volunteers are required to attend a general orientation and training session. This aspect of the program is important to ensure that all of you feel comfortable and knowledgeable in your volunteer roles and responsibilities. You will receive an overview of the facility, the riding program, the participant population and hands on training for your specific tasks including safety and emergency policies and procedures.
Volunteers may become involved in the following activities:
Lesson Program:
Volunteers may assist in helping to prepare horses for their lessons by grooming and tacking the horses, horse leading or side-walking during the lesson either in the ring, trails or the sensory trail.
Equine Program:
Volunteers may help in the daily care and maintenance of the horses, other resident animals, as well as stable and field maintenance. This could also include the riding/schooling of the program horses, if and only if, the volunteer meets the strict requirements of the Program Director for the equine exercise program.
Facility/Farm:
Volunteers may help with the general maintenance, repairs and improvements of SeaPony Farm.
Office:
Volunteers may provide valuable support to the Program Director by helping with telephone inquiries, data entry, filing, mailings and other general office duties.
Special Events/Fundraiser:
Volunteers may assist the Program Director with the coordination and production of various special events and fundraisers. A volunteer may also be a valuable asset in lending their support on the day of the event.
Special Skills:
Volunteers may assist the Program Director with technical, professional or special skills and will be invaluable to the program.
