Unmounted Volunteer Training

Unmounted Program Volunteer Criteria

  • At least 18 years old

  • Able to maintain confidentiality

  • Basic knowledge of horse behavior and communication

  • Physically able to stand/walk for at least 1 hour on a variety of terrain

  • Willingness to be flexible and follow directions

  • Actively seek opportunities to increase knowledge and awareness of trauma informed care, horse and human behavior

  • Therapeutic Horse Experience (THE) volunteers are required to attend a Taking the Lead training, and attend either attend the Mounted Volunteer training or Unmounted Virtual and in person training

  • Vocational training volunteers are required to attend a Taking the Lead training, watch the UpReach Unmounted Virtual training and have volunteered doing UpReach barn chores for at least 3 months. 

  • Group volunteers are required to watch the UpReach Unmounted Virtual training and attend in person unmounted program training

 

Unmounted Volunteer Responsibilities

  • Unmounted volunteers are responsible for observing horse behavior, being aware of potential safety issues, and serving as horse handler as needed. 

  • THE volunteers are responsible for the horse and may be asked to assist with brushing, leading, and other activities incorporated into the lesson.  Lessons include 1-2 participants.  A commitment to attend lessons for the length of the term is required.  Term length varies from 6-8 weeks (see UpReach calendar)

  • Vocational volunteers need to have a working knowledge of UpReach barn routine and able to coach students in horse care tasks.  Volunteers need to allow for experiential learning to occur, allowing participants to find their own solutions while maintaining safety.  Students are working towards their own personal highest level of independence, so it is important to encourage problem solving.   

  • Group volunteers are responsible for the horses within a group.  Volunteers need to be curious, allow for experiential learning to occur, allowing participants to find their own solutions while maintaining safety.  For curriculum-based groups, a commitment is required based on the number of sessions.  Typically, a 7-8 week commitment is required.