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Our team of dedicated volunteers, highly trained certified instructors and gentle horses allow us to provide therapeutic horseback riding and carriage driving lessons to children and adults with special needs. We are privileged to work with a caring, patient and strong community of people.
As a volunteer with River Valley Riders (RVR), you are a partner in our mission “to enrich the lives of children and adults with special needs by providing equine-assisted services." The minimum age to volunteer is 14 years old. No experience is necessary and all training is provided.
VOLUNTEER TRAINING – APRIL 9, 2022
Plan to spend a full-day introduction to the fun and responsibility of RVR volunteering. You’ll learn about therapeutic riding, the children and adults we serve, and the horses that help us.
The day will begin in your home with a Zoom session from 9:00am to 10:30am. We will be reviewing the Volunteer Handbook and sharing information about the most common diagnoses/disabilities of our participants and how to best support them to achieve their goals.
The afternoon in-person training starts at 1:00pm at our Afton lesson site (2007 Neal Avenue South) for hands-on experience with our horses, ending at 4:30pm. Please dress appropriately: layers, closed toe shoes (preferably heavy duty shoes/boots), etc. Training will occur rain or shine. For more information.
OPPORTUNITIES
RVR provides services from mid-April through early-November at our facility in Afton, MN. Volunteer once per week for the 26-week season or one/two 8-10 week sessions (spring, summer, or fall). Volunteer shifts are 1-3 hours during your choice of Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday evenings.
The primary volunteer role is walking alongside the participant as they ride their horse during the lesson. “Sidewalkers” follow direction from PATH Intl. certified instructors to support the rider as they perform the lesson skill or activity while promoting their independence and are VITAL for rider success. Volunteers with horse experience may have the opportunity to be part of the team by leading the horse during the lesson.
Our carriage driving program offers volunteer opportunities to help get the horse ready for the lesson and assist the participant during their lesson.
There are many additional ways to donate your time and talent to help us achieve our mission including: photography, creative writing, fundraising, gardening, and more!
WHAT’S NEXT?
We look forward to welcoming you to the RVR team! RSVP for Volunteer Training by contacting us:
Email info@rivervalleyriders.org
Call 651-439-2558.Video
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Date and Time
Saturday Apr 9, 2022
9:00 AM - 4:30 PM CDT9:00am-10:30am Zoom Session - RSVP to receive Zoom link
1:00pm-4:30pm In-Person Hands-On TrainingFees/Admission
No obligation - attend Volunteer Training to learn more about our organization and mission.
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Contact Information
Cheryl Holt
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