Our Volunteers

In both E.F.P. sessions and Therapeutic Riding lessons, Dream Quest utilizes the help of a dedicated staff of volunteers. The participation of volunteers is essential to the success of Dream Quest.

All of our volunteers go through orientation and training before working with Dream Quest clients and students. They learn how to assist instructors and riders in working with the horses. Throughout the training, there is a heavy emphasis on safety and emergency preparedness.

Volunteers perform a variety of tasks at Dream Quest. They may help with the grooming and "tacking up" involved in preparing to ride. During some lessons or sessions, horse leaders are responsible for guiding the horse and rider on a lead rope while side walkers walk along beside the horse, offering assistance as needed to the rider. Volunteers often help to set up and arrange equipment in the arena. Occasionally, a volunteer with riding experience may participate as a rider in team activities with the student or client.

For the instructor or counselor in charge of a session, volunteers provide a valuable extra set of eyes and hands, helping to ensure that everything runs safely and smoothly. For the horses, a volunteer can provide needed guidance and motivation. For the student or client, a volunteer may be a source of reassurance and encouragement, or even a friend.