Volunteer Etiquette & Expectations
At Equestrian Bridges, our volunteers are a vital part of our mission to heal, grow, and learn through the power of horses. To ensure a safe, positive, and professional experience for everyone — our participants, staff, and herd — please review and follow the guidelines below.
Training Required
ALL volunteers must complete our General Volunteer Training before beginning work at Equestrian Bridges. After that, you may choose to advance your skills through our Level 1, 2 & 3 Advanced Trainings and or Session Training.
Click here to see our next volunteer trainings.
Be Punctual & Prepared
Please arrive 5–10 minutes early for your scheduled shift or session. This allows time to check in, receive updates, and prepare for your assigned area.
Respect Staff Time & Program Flow
During lessons, therapy sessions, or classes, please avoid unrelated or lengthy personal conversations with staff or instructors. This helps our team stay focused on participants’ safety and keeps the environment calm for our horses.
There’s always time before or after sessions for questions, updates, or friendly conversation — we appreciate your professionalism!
Dress Appropriately
Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes or boots. Avoid loose jewelry, scarves, or accessories that could pose a safety hazard.
If you’re working in the arena or with horses, be prepared for dust, dirt, and outdoor conditions.
Respect the Herd
Always follow staff instructions when interacting with our therapy horses. Approach calmly, speak softly, and never feed treats. TREATS ARE NOT ALLOWED
Each horse has a unique personality and needs — your patience and attentiveness help keep them happy and healthy.
Be Present & Mindful
Please refrain from using cell phones or taking photos during active sessions unless directed by staff. We want to protect the privacy of participants and maintain a focused, therapeutic environment.
Be a Team Player
Our volunteers embody the heart of Equestrian Bridges — compassion, patience, and teamwork. Jump in where help is needed, stay positive, and communicate openly with staff if you have questions or concerns.
Thank You!
Your time, dedication, and kindness make a lasting difference in our community. Thank you for being an essential part of the bridge between humans and horses.
Volunteer FAQ
1. Why do I have to pay for volunteer training?
Our volunteer training fee helps us cover the cost of materials, staff time, insurance, facility upkeep, and hands-on instruction that ensures safety for both people and horses. As a nonprofit, this small fee allows us to maintain high-quality, consistent training so every volunteer is prepared and confident before working with clients or our herd.
2. What does my General Volunteer Training include?
Your General Volunteer Training covers: Hands-on instruction with our certified staff Safety training around horses and in the barn Understanding our programs and client needs A volunteer T-shirt and badge Access to the Bloomerang Volunteer Portal Eligibility to volunteer at events, fundraisers, and barn tasks This training ensures that every volunteer follows the same safety standards and understands how our therapeutic environment operates.
3. I already have horse experience — why do I still need training?
We love when volunteers come with prior horse experience! Equestrian Bridges follows specific safety protocols, terminology, and handling practices unique to our therapy environment. Even skilled horsemen/women need to learn: Our horse behavior expectations Our emergency procedures Our “session-safe” handling standards How we support clients with disabilities How our minis and therapy horses are managed Your experience helps — our training simply ensures everyone is on the same page and that clients remain safe.
4. How do I become an Advanced Volunteer?
Advanced Volunteers (Level 1, 2 or 3) must: Complete General Volunteer Training Demonstrate session-safe skills Be approved by EB staff Advanced volunteers help with horse handling, session support, and more specialized tasks.
5. What ages can volunteer?
General volunteers must be 16 or older. Younger participants can get involved through: Mini Buddies Teen Camps Special youth volunteer opportunities (announced as needed)
6. Who do I contact if I have questions or need help?
You can reach our Volunteer Manager at:
volunteers@equestrianbridges.org