Be the steady presence that changes everything.
Our Care Programs serve children and adults with special needs — and they run on volunteers. As a Care Volunteer, you’re not watching from the sidelines. You’re actively engaged — helping participants grow in ways that matter both inside and out.
Where Life Skills Come to Life
Our School-Age Program and Adult Day Program are fully licensed by the State of California, serving participants ages 5 through 58 in structured, play-based and activity-based environments. As a Care Volunteer, you’re not just supporting a program — you’re an essential part of how it runs.
We have two volunteer opportunities. Both require a genuine commitment to serving others in a safe, joyful, and inclusive environment.
School-Age Program (SAP)
Support children and young adults with special needs, ages 5–22, in an integrated daily program built around play, creativity, and connection.
Your role: Engage participants in art, reading, dancing, outdoor play, and group games — following the lead of our licensed staff.
Availability:
- School Year: Monday–Friday, 7:00–8:30 AM and 1:00–6:30 PM
- School Breaks: Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–6:30 PM
Adult Day Program (ADP)
Partner with adults with special needs, ages 18–58, as they build independence and stronger community connections.
Your role: Support participants with vocational development, meal preparation, fitness, grocery shopping, community outings, street safety, and social skills — all under the guidance of our program staff.
Availability: Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM–3:00 PM
Volunteer Requirements
Because our programs are state-licensed, we uphold the highest safety standards for our participants. We’re looking for volunteers who are 18 or older and can commit to a minimum of 25 volunteer hours.
Before your first shift, you’ll need to complete the following:
- Background Check: LiveScan (FBI/DOJ) at the Oceanside Police Department — approximately $100
- Health Screening: Submit a completed Health Screening Report
- TB Test: Results must be current (within the past year)
- Vaccinations: Proof of TDAP and MMR vaccinations required
- Paperwork: Care Program Volunteer Application and Criminal Record Statement
These steps protect the people we serve. Our staff will walk you through each one after your interview.
Frequently Asked Questions
No prior experience is required, but a genuine desire to connect with and support our participants is essential. Our staff will orient you to the program and guide you throughout your time here.
LiveScan fingerprinting (FBI/DOJ) is required by the State of California for anyone working in a licensed care facility. The approximately $100 fee is paid directly to the Oceanside Police Department, where the scan is completed. This is a standard requirement — not specific to Ivey Ranch.
Care Program volunteers are required to complete at least 25 hours. Beyond that, we’d love to have you as long as you’re available — many of our volunteers keep coming back year after year.
Yes. If your schedule allows and you complete the orientation for each program, you’re welcome to volunteer in both.
No. Care volunteers always work alongside licensed program staff. You are a support presence — staff members are responsible for program delivery and participant care.
It varies depending on how quickly you can complete the requirements — particularly the LiveScan and health screening. Most volunteers are ready to begin within a few weeks of their interview.
Other Ways to Get Involved
Internships
Gain supervised field experience in therapeutic horsemanship and inclusive care.
Equine Volunteers
Work alongside our horses and certified instructors in the arena.
Service Projects
Join a group service day to help maintain and beautify the ranch.
Ready to Make a Difference?
A single volunteer can be the reason a participant tries something new, feels seen, or finds their confidence. The first step is a brief interview — a chance for us to learn about your goals and make sure the program is the right fit for you and our participants. There’s no formal application before the interview. Just reach out and we’ll take it from there.
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