Shining Horizons
Shining Horizons
Volunteers are at the heart of
Volunteers are at the heart of
Volunteering with us is not only rewarding—it’s also a deeply fulfilling experience. Just as therapeutic riding benefits our riders, it’s also enriching for our volunteers. You’ll connect with wonderful people, and benefit from the joy that comes from helping others. Volunteering also brings greater awareness of the challenges faced by people with disabilities and offers a meaningful way to give back to the community. And, of course, it’s a great way to stay active and improve your fitness, too!
We provide training for all volunteer roles, ensuring you feel confident and supported in your role. Whether you have a little or a lot of time to give, we have a volunteer opportunity that fits your unique skills and availability.
Volunteer roles
At Shining Horizons, we offer a wide range of volunteer opportunities, not all of which are horse-related. Whether you’re interested in behind-the-scenes roles like event planning, mental health support, or administrative tasks, there’s a place for you. Join us and make a meaningful impact in a way that suits your skills and interests.
Side-walkers ensure riders' safety by walking alongside the horse, providing physical support, encouragement and verbal cueing. Not all riders ride independently, one or two side-walkers may be required for each session. They also play a key role in boosting the rider’s confidence. Side-walkers must be 16 or older, complete our volunteer forms, and undergo training. For volunteers aged 18+, a current vulnerable sector and criminal background check is required.
Time commitment: 1 hour/ week or more.
Semesters: 7 – 12 or 16 weeks in durationHorse experience: Not mandatory
Check out our volunteer handbook.
Horse handlers are responsible for the horse, including grooming and tacking up for the ride, leading during the session, and returning it to the stable.
Horse handlers must be 16 or older, complete our volunteer forms, and undergo training before volunteering. Volunteers aged 18+ must also submit a current vulnerable sector and criminal background check. All necessary forms and background check request letters can be found in the Volunteer Handbook.
Time commitment: 2 hours per ride, per week or more.
Semesters: Last 7-16 weeks.
Horse experience: Horse handlers must have experience handling horses
Check out our volunteer handbook.
Though behind the scenes, our volunteers play a vital role in supporting the program. Their responsibilities include coordinating volunteers, fundraising, handling social media, organizing events, and assisting with administrative tasks. With the recent extension of our program to include mental health services, we are also seeking volunteers with mental health experience to help manage the healthcare aspect of our programming. Additionally, we’re looking for committee members and other essential roles to support this new initiative.
Time commitment: Flexible and ongoing. (based on you individual preferences and time schedule)
Horse Experience: Not required