SMILES would not exist without the dedication, compassion, and hard work of our many volunteers. A gift of your time will make a positive difference in the lives of others. We invite you to join us in fulfilling our mission to enrich the lives of those with special needs through the healing power of horses.
SMILES operates year-round, six days a week, morning and evenings. Our staff and volunteers work together, forming a vital team that is essential to our participants’ success! Individual reasons for volunteering may differ, but there is one thing that all of our volunteers have in common- the feeling that they are receiving back more than they give.
Volunteer Opportunities
Please join us in becoming a class volunteer! Whether you are an enthusiast with many years of horse experience, or this is your first time working with horses, your time with us is invaluable and appreciated!
Volunteers can be involved in our classes as either Horse Handlers or Side Walkers. Training for these roles is to ensure that everyone working with our horses and participants knows and consistently uses proper techniques.
This attention to quality and consistency allows us to run safe programs and maintain the high standards we strive for as a PATH Intl. Premier Accredited Center.
When is the next Volunteer Training?
Volunteer trainings are typically held during the months of March, June, September and December, during breaks from our regular programming.
Our next Volunteer Training Sessions are for volunteers interested in volunteering during our Spring Session, which is March 28th – May 22nd. Training Sessions are scheduled for:
March 7th (Sat.) from 9am – 12pm
March 11th (Wed.) from 5pm-8pm
*Interested volunteers MUST RSVP to trainings by submitting completed paperwork and reaching out to the Volunteer Coordinator prior to the training. Please reach out to our Volunteer Coordinator for more information:
Kolaya Wilson
volunteer@visitsmiles.org
Online Volunteer Training
We have created several online training modules that are designed to be done before you begin volunteering in classes.
Each module will take about 10 minutes to complete, and include a short quiz at the end. Once you take the quiz, the Volunteer Coordinator will be alerted that you completed the module.
These can be done before or after your in-person volunteer training at the stable.
Please click any of the links to get started!
Horse Handlers & Side Walkers
Horse Handlers at SMILES lead the horse and/or assist the client in controlling the horse during a class. The Horse Handler is focused on the horse to ensure the safety of the client, and helps maintain the horse’s pace, calmness, and focus. This role is perfect for those that are familiar with horses, or who are interested in learning how to work with horses.
Horse Handlers must attend an orientation and training.
The Side Walker’s role is to provide support as indicated by the instructor. It may be direct physical support, assisting with balance throughout class activities, or verbal support to reinforce the instructor’s directions. This role is perfect for those that enjoy interacting with clients in a more hands-on way!
Side Walkers must attend an orientation and training.
We rely heavily on our team of volunteers to help with event preparation, execution, and break-down.
SMILES holds several major events each year, including the SMILES Tack Sale, ‘Mane’ Event Golf Outing, Superstar Horse Show, SMILES Fall Festival, and more! This role is perfect for those with seasonal availability, or happy to work registration, sell raffle tickets, and talk about SMILES.
We welcome groups to help with a wide variety of projects, including painting, cleaning, repairs, gardening, lawn care, and more. Projects can be from 2 hours to a full day!
Also volunteers who possess skills or professional/technical experience that may benefit SMILES, such as photography, marketing, graphic design, computer knowledge, farm maintenance, etc., are encouraged to contact us.
