Volunteer with RTR!

The Richmond Therapeutic Riding Association is an organization built and supported by volunteers who generously give their time to our program.

From our volunteer Board of Directors who provide a solid foundation for the organization, to our Program volunteers who support to the riders and instructors in lessons, RTRA relies on the dedication and enthusiasm of those who are looking for a positive and fun way to make a difference. There are many ways you can help out and become a part of this wonderful organization.

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.

Lessons run Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, morning & afternoon throughout the year.  We also run a Spring Break and Summer Camp.

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.

Volunteer Orientation & Training

Sessions are held throughout the year and run for 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 for upcoming sessions and to register.

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
  • Commit to morning or afternoon set of lessons, once a week for length of a session
  • 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.

Volunteer Form

Our lessons run *Monday – Thursday in two daily sessions:

9:30 AM to 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM.

Please indicate which lessons you are available to volunteer for.

* Tuesday: PM only, Thursday AM only.

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