Volunteer with RTRA!
The Richmond Therapeutic Riding Association is an organization built and supported by volunteers who generously give their time to our program.
PROGRAM VOLUNTEER
We have a very enthusiastic and dedicated group of volunteers who help in lessons on a weekly basis. We are very proud to say that our volunteers have just as much fun as our riders do, in a setting which is both therapeutic and recreational!
While previous experience is an asset, no specific skills with horses or special needs are required as training is provided prior to starting.
Program Volunteers start in lessons as Sidewalkers and help in the following ways:
- Help set up arena equipment prior to the start of lessons
- Assist the instructor during mounting
- Provide physical support to the rider during lessons
- Help the rider with directions given by the instructor
Once a volunteer has been with the program for a period of time, there are often further opportunities that provide a chance to enhance their experience at RTRA such as training to be a horse leader, helping with special events & fundraising, or joining the Board of Directors.
What people say about volunteering at RTRA:
I have volunteered with Richmond Therapeutic Riding for over 13 years. Combining my love of horses with the opportunity to support children with disabilities has been incredibly rewarding. I am continually amazed by the powerful physical and cognitive changes that therapeutic riding makes possible. It is especially rewarding to witness the growth in confidence children experience — from initial hesitation around the horse to developing trust, independence, and a genuine bond with the animal. Those moments never get old and remind me why I keep coming back.
I find it a privilege volunteering at RTR. I love seeing the smiles on the kids’ faces as they interact with and ride the horses. It’s great to be a part of that! It’s also a great way to get my ‘horsey fix’!”
Volunteer Orientation & Training
Orientations are held the first Thursday of every month and last approximately 1 hour. Areas covered in the sessions include roles & responsibilities of our volunteers, safety, and basic horse handling.
Please contact the Volunteer Co-ordinator by email or at (604) 241-7837 to register. Please note that registration must be completed before arriving for an orientation.
When arriving for your appointment drive close enough to the gates to activate the ground sensor that opens them. If you have any difficulties with the gates, please call the office (604-241-7837) and RTRA staff will assist you. Please respect the 5 km speed limit for the safety of children and horses.
Volunteer Requirements
- Attend a Volunteer Orientation & Training session (approximately 1 hour long)
- Minimum age of 16 years old
- Be fluent in English (able to hear and easily understand instructions)
- Complete a criminal background check (once Orientation & Training session is complete)
- Complete the volunteer application download an application and the volunteer release form download a volunteer release form.
