Volunteer With Us
Our volunteers are the heart of Unbridled Paths.
While our horses are the foundation of our program, it is our volunteers who make everything possible. Their dedication, compassion, and commitment allow us to serve individuals and families throughout our community.
We are incredibly grateful for the amazing people who give their time to support our mission.
Why Volunteer
Volunteering at Unbridled Paths is a meaningful way to give back, build relationships, and make a real difference in the lives of others.
Volunteers support lessons led by Nicole Messer, PATH Intl. CTRI, helping create a safe, welcoming environment for riders and families.
Whether you enjoy working with people, caring for animals, or supporting behind the scenes, there is a place for you here.
Volunteer Requirements
To join our volunteer team, you must:
Be at least 14 years old
Be able to commit to a consistent schedule
Complete a volunteer orientation and training
Training & Support
We provide structured training for each volunteer role to ensure you feel confident, prepared, and supported.
No prior experience is necessary just a willingness to learn and serve.
Get Started
If you are interested in volunteering, we would love to hear from you.
👉 Email:nicole@unbridledpaths.org
Job Descriptions and Application
At Unbridled Paths, volunteers play a vital role in helping individuals with special needs experience the physical, emotional, and mental benefits of equine-assisted therapeutic riding. We welcome compassionate, dependable individuals who are passionate about making a difference in the lives of others while working in a positive farm environment.
1. Horse Leader Volunteer
Position Summary
Horse Leaders are responsible for safely leading therapy horses during lessons and activities while working closely with instructors and side walkers.
Responsibilities
Lead horses during therapeutic riding lessons
Maintain control and awareness of horse behavior at all times
Assist with grooming and tacking horses before and after sessions
Help prepare horses for classes and activities
Follow instructor directions during sessions
Monitor horse comfort and safety
Requirements
Experience handling horses preferred but not required
Ability to walk for extended periods outdoors
Calm demeanor and good communication skills
Ability to follow safety procedures
Ideal Volunteer Traits
Patient, dependable, physically active, attentive, and comfortable around horses.
2. Side Walker Volunteer
Position Summary
Side walkers provide physical and emotional support to riders during therapeutic riding lessons.
Responsibilities
Walk beside riders during sessions
Assist riders with balance, confidence, and participation
Encourage communication and engagement
Follow instructor guidance regarding rider support
Assist with mounting and dismounting when needed
Requirements
No horse experience required
Ability to walk beside horses for up to one hour
Comfortable interacting with individuals with special needs
Ability to remain attentive and focused
Ideal Volunteer Traits
Compassionate, encouraging, patient, and observant.
3. Barn & Stable Volunteer
Position Summary
Barn Volunteers assist with daily horse care and general farm operations.
Responsibilities
Cleaning stalls and water buckets
Feeding horses and organizing supplies
Sweeping barns and maintaining clean work areas
Assisting with turnout and basic horse care
Supporting general farm maintenance
Requirements
Ability to perform physical labor outdoors
Comfortable around horses and farm environments
Willingness to work as part of a team
Ideal Volunteer Traits
Hardworking, reliable, self-motivated, and animal-loving.
4. Photography & Social Media Volunteer
Position Summary
Photography and Media Volunteers help capture and share the stories of Unbridled Paths through photos, videos, and social media content.
Responsibilities
Take photos and videos during sessions and events
Help create social media content
Assist with promotional campaigns
Capture volunteer and participant success stories
Support marketing and outreach efforts
Requirements
Photography or social media experience preferred
Creative mindset
Respect for participant privacy and confidentiality
Ideal Volunteer Traits
Creative, positive, detail-oriented, and passionate about storytelling.
5. Summer Camp Volunteer
Position Summary
Summer Camp Volunteers assist staff with children’s educational and recreational camp activities.
Responsibilities
Assist with horse activities and games
Help supervise gardening, crafts, and educational projects
Support snack and lunch activities
Encourage participation and positive behavior
Help create a safe and fun environment
Requirements
Enjoy working with children
Ability to work outdoors in summer conditions
Positive attitude and teamwork skills
Ideal Volunteer Traits
Fun, patient, energetic, and nurturing.