Horses are in, the hay is stacked and the Fall Session is ready to begin Sept 23.
The Comox Valley Therapeutic Riding Society (CVTRS) offers therapeutic horseback riding for the mentally, physically and emotional challenged individuals.
Volunteers are what make this great program possible and we need volunteer horse handlers and side walkers for the riders! We have over 150 volunteers and they come from all walks of life.
Some come and stay with us for just a session while others have been with us for 21 years! Are you interested in being part of the volunteer team?
Depending on the class, we need up to three volunteers for every rider. Some days there are five classes with four riders in each class, so at times we need up to 60 volunteers a day, four days a week.
While previous experience with horses and/or working with people are helpful, no prior experience is necessary. All of our volunteers will receive training.
Orientations and workshops are ongoing throughout the year. Qualified instructors and volunteers are present to offer support and direction so you feel comfortable in your role.
Duties may include: preparing the horses for class, grooming, mucking stalls; leading the horse; or walking beside the horse (side walking) to provide security for the rider. There are many positions available for volunteering from working with the riders and horses to public relations and fundraising.
So if horse leading and side walking isn’t your thing, talk to our volunteer co-ordinators so your placement is best suited to your interests and skills.
While you may volunteer to help others, you’ll be pleasantly surprised how this benefits you, too. This opportunity is a great way to get outdoors and enjoy this beautiful valley, make new friends (both two legged and four) and help make a difference in your local community.
CVTRS runs two facilities side by side at 4839 and 4875 Headquarters Rd. in Courtenay. Programs for physically and mentally challenged children and adults are found at the Exhibition Grounds (Barn A) and Stonehenge Farm (Barn B), hosts the programs for the emotionally challenged riders. Registrations are nearly complete and the riders are excited to get started.
To apply, call Barn A (250-338-1968) or Barn B (250-338-1987) and we will match you up with the horse and rider you would like to spend an hour or two with, once a week.
Further details can be found at www.cvtrs.com.
— Comox Valley Therapeutic Riding Society