Volunteer

HorsePower Volunteer Roles

Mentor — Minimum age 21. Each mentor is paired with one student for the session and stays with that student throughout, providing steady support and supervision.

HorseHandler — Minimum age 18 (14–17 may serve as a Junior HorseHandler first). Assigned to a horse after the student's first week, then stays with that horse for the rest of the session. Horsehandlers are the safe, familiar person for their horse and are comfortable sharing horse knowledge with students.

Junior HorseHandler — For first-time horseHandlers under 18, or adults new to horses. Minimum age 14. Evaluated by Lead Horsehandlers or Instructors for promotion to the next level.

Lead HorseHandler — For experienced horseHandlers ready to mentor others. Requires completing Lead HorseHandler training, at least one full session served as a Horsehandler, and demonstrated leadership.

Herd Care Team — Minimum age 18. Rotates one AM or PM shift per week feeding and caring for the herd: prepping feed, giving meds when needed, mucking the dry lot, filling water tanks, and keeping an eye on the horses. Training provided.

Instructor — Leads the class and sets the tone for horses, volunteers, and students alike. Works with the program director to prepare materials, communicates with guardians and facilities, and serves as the main point of contact for volunteers during a session. Often holds a spiritual leadership role, praying with the team before class.

Check out a short video that shows you how to register for Training & Sessions: