Get Involved — Volunteer!
Working with horses takes a lot of hard work but it is very rewarding. Volunteering at the ranch not only benefits the horses but as you read the stories of their rescue and subsequent return to health, you will see that it is just as rewarding for the volunteers themselves!
Our volunteers are involved in every aspect of what we do here at Hope for Horses — mucking stalls (everyone’s favorite), grooming the horses, helping us in the office and researching national rescue operations and farm-related issues.
We also help our volunteers increase their skills in horsemanship and equine socialization using natural horsemanship methods. They are also involved in helping establish future foster homes, assist in establishing forever homes and stay in touch with fosters and adopters by conducting on-site visits to ensure the well-being of our animals. Volunteers are also involved in the planning and help with our fundraisers, and if interested, participate in guest speaking engagements.
Joining us on group trail rides is a highlight for volunteers who are experienced riders and want to participate in an easy, relaxing ride with their own horse.
There are many ways to help — some are hands-on and require horse experience
while others give you the chance to learn about horses.
Here are some of the many volunteer opportunities available:
Barn and Horse Care: Each of our equines has special needs. Often they need a daily walk, gentle grooming, training in social manners, performance, and often medical care. Every horse loves to be groomed and pampered. And of course there are the other daily tasks such as cleaning stalls, paddocks, turnouts and ongoing barn maintenance.
Organization and Fundraising: We plan to host groups of visitors — from colleges, high schools, churches or local civic groups. During these events we will need helpers to present information, direct visitors around the facility and represent our organization in such a way as to foster their future participation. Since Hope for Horses is a non-profit operation, fundraising is a constant need. If you are good at fundraising events, or just interested in learning how to participate, this is a great way to contribute.
Outreach: Hope for Horses is often called upon to speak at various functions about our operations. If you have a knack for public speaking and would like to help spread our mission, this is a great opportunity for you to do what you already love. If you would like to learn how to contribute in this way, we will find opportunities for you to practice your skills and become comfortable with the task before setting you before the public.
Orientation Training: Volunteer orientation is the best way to learn what we expect of our volunteers, how to work around horses in a safe manner, and where everything is located. Since volunteers come from all backgrounds and degrees of familiarity with ranch life, each orientation is geared towards each person’s experience level. To arrange for an orientation, please complete the forms below and we will be happy to set an orientation date with you.
Hope for Horses would not be around if it were not for our wonderful volunteers. If you are you a horse enthusiast and would you like to help horses, donkeys and mules find loving, forever homes, consider volunteering with Hope for Horses by completing the Membership, Volunteer Application and Waiver of Liability forms below and mail to the address on the form or email them to us at hopeforhorses1945@gmail.com.
For insurance reasons, and due to the nature ranch life and its inherent risks, all volunteers at least 18 years of age, must have a valid driver’s license, and complete the Release of Liability Form provided below. Volunteers under 18 years of age must have the Release Form signed by a parent or legal guardian. Exceptions may be made for those working on approved school projects that are part of a group. For those under age 18 without a Waiver, we would love to give you a tour of our ranch and allow you to meet and groom our gentle horses under supervision on a limited basis.
Please click on the "Membership Form" link below to open a printable version.
Membership Form
Please click on the "Volunteer Application Form" link below to open a printable version.
Volunteer Application Form
Please click on the "Waiver of Liability Form" link below to open a printable version.
Waiver of Liability Form
