No horse experience required. We’ll teach you everything.
Ivey Ranch is a PATH Premier Accredited and CHA Certified facility. Our equestrian volunteers make therapeutic riding possible — supporting our horses, our riders, and the mission that brings them together. Whether you’re here for the horses, the community, or both, there’s a role for you.
How It Works
Every new equestrian volunteer starts with an orientation. It’s a 90-minute introduction to the ranch, our safety protocols, and the different ways you can help. From there, you sign up for the role that fits your schedule and interests.
Register online for an upcoming orientation — space is limited, so register in advance.
Attend your orientation session (1:00–2:30 PM; check-in at 12:45 PM).
Sign up for volunteer shifts in the role that’s the right fit for you.
2026 Orientation Dates
All orientations run 1:00–2:30 PM. Check-in begins at 12:45 PM. Late arrivals are not permitted and will be asked to re-register for a future date.
January 10
March 7
May 2
September 12
October 31
Volunteer Roles
Once orientation is complete, you can choose the role that fits your interests and availability. All roles are meaningful — from hands-on time with riders to dedicated horse care.
Lesson Aide (Ages 18+)
Work directly with horses and clients during therapeutic riding classes. Lesson Aides may side-walk alongside a rider to provide physical stability, lead a horse during class, or assist with grooming and turnout. This is the role for volunteers who want close interaction with both horses and people.
The Grooming Gang (Ages 18+)
Dedicated horse care — grooming, bathing, stall cleaning, and equipment maintenance. If your goal is focused, hands-on time with the horses themselves, this is your place.
Volunteers ages 9–17 are welcome with a participating parent or guardian (orientation required, long pants and closed-toe shoes required).
Barn Buddies (Ages 9+)
An excellent introduction to horses and horse care. Barn Buddies help with feeding, watering, and stall cleaning. One staff member and one parent must be present. On Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays during excessive heat or rain, a parent is required.
Saturday Program (Ages 9+)
A high-energy day that involves all aspects of the ranch — horse care, client interaction, and everything in between. One of the best ways for families to volunteer together.
Volunteer Advancement Program
Already volunteering and looking to grow? Our Volunteer Advancement Program offers experienced volunteers the opportunity to take on greater responsibilities at the ranch.
Sign Up for a Shift
Already oriented? Browse available volunteer shifts and sign up below.
Downloads & Forms
Please download and review these documents before your orientation. New volunteers: bring your completed application with you. Returning volunteers — don’t forget to submit your annual renewal form before your first shift of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not at all. We value reliability, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn. Our orientation and role-specific training cover everything you need to know.
No. Because we work with vulnerable populations and large animals, all volunteers must complete orientation and submit an application before their first shift. Walk-ins cannot be accommodated.
Late arrivals are not permitted. If you are still parking at 1:00 PM or have not checked in by then, you will be turned away and asked to re-register for a future date.
Volunteers must be at least 9 years old. Volunteers ages 9–13 must have a parent or guardian present for the full duration of orientation and all subsequent shifts — parents cannot wait in the car. Volunteers ages 14–17 may participate independently once orientation is complete.
Yes, with the right support in place. Your child must be able to function in a group setting with minimal supervision. If a buddy is needed, a parent or guardian who has also completed orientation must work side-by-side with them throughout each shift.
Once you’ve completed orientation, you can view and sign up for available shifts on our volunteer shift calendar.
Yes. Returning volunteers must submit the annual Returning Volunteer Renewal Form before their first shift of each new year.
Other Ways to Get Involved
Ranch Internships
Gain supervised field experience in therapeutic horsemanship and inclusive care.
Care Program Volunteers
Support children and adults with special needs in our state-licensed SAP and ADP programs.
Service Projects
Join a group service day to help maintain and beautify the ranch.
Ready to Join the Herd?
There’s a place for you here — whether you’re 9 or 90, a lifelong horse lover or someone who’s never been near a barn. Register for an upcoming orientation and come see what Ivey Ranch is all about.
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