Volunteer
Leg Up For Kids relies on its hard working crew of volunteers to help operate safe, quality lessons. As well, volunteers help to keep the cost of lessons affordable for participants, help the lessons be fun and safe, and help keep healthy and happy horses.
Our biggest need is for in-class volunteers. However we offer volunteer opportunities available outside of classes such as: barn help, office help, grant writing, and facility maintenance.
A few basic qualifications need to be met by our in-class volunteers in order to operate a safe program. Physical requirements are not demanding, but volunteers work in all weather conditions and on uneven terrain, so good health and fitness is important.
LEADERS:
The first responsibility of the leader is the horse! Leaders help prepare the horse for lessons, help to maintain safety with other horses and obstacles in the arena, and help the horse to follow the rider’s cues.
SIDE WALKERS:
The first responsibility of the side walker is the rider! Side walkers physically support the rider during lessons, help the rider guide the horse, and help the rider to follow instructions.
GENERAL VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS:
Class length lasts approximately an hour. The first 30 minutes is spent grooming and tacking the horse, the other half entails brisk walking and jogging beside the horse.
Prior horse experience is not necessary, our NARHA certified instructors teach trainings throughout the year to help you gain confidence and skills with the horses.
- Be at least 14 years old (some exceptions can be made)
- Commitment to attend class for the month
- Agrees to follow Leg Up For Kids program policies
- Walk for up to 1 hour at a time (indoor and outdoors) on uneven terrain
- Lift up to 20 pounds (about the weight of an average saddle)
- Comfort in working with disabled riders (including physical contact)
- Ability to hold arm out to the side for up to an hour (for sidewalkers)
Leg Up FAQ:
Q: Where is Leg Up for Kids Therapeutic Riding located?
A: Leg Up for Kids is located in Arlington, Washington, approximately 45 minutes north of Seattle.
Q: How do I become a volunteer?
A: (1)Fill out the volunteer application and other volunteer forms located on the bottom of this page. (2) Attend a volunteer orientation. Dates and times are listed on the Homepage calendar.
Q: Are any of my expenses related to volunteering tax deductible?
A: Volunteer travel expenses such as transportation (actual expenses or 14c/mile), meals, and lodging for qualifying charities may be deductible if there is not a significant element of personal pleasure, recreation, or vacation in the travel. See your personal tax advisor for more details about your specific situation.
For further information, please contact Volunteer Coordinator Melissa Lowell at melissa@peoplehelpinghorses.org.
Download the Leg Up For Kid forms NOW!
