Q: How long is the training process? Initial training typically takes 8–12 hours spread over 2–3 sessions, depending on your volunteer role. This includes a general safety orientation, horse handling, emergency procedures, and role-specific training. A key part of your onboarding includes shadowing experienced volunteers during live sessions—this hands-on experience helps you build confidence and ensures you're well-prepared before stepping into your role independently.
Q: What if I'm afraid of horses? It's completely normal to feel nervous around horses initially. Our training program is designed to help you develop confidence and comfort gradually. We'll start with basic horse behavior education and supervised interactions. Many volunteers who were initially nervous become some of our most confident horse handlers.
Q: What safety measures are in place? We maintain comprehensive safety protocols, including required personal protective equipment, trained staff supervision, regular equipment inspections, emergency procedures, and our Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP). All activities are supervised by instructors, and we maintain appropriate volunteer-to-client ratios at all times.
Client Interaction Questions
Q: Will I work directly with clients? This depends on your volunteer role and training level. Some volunteers work directly with clients during therapeutic sessions, while others provide support through horse care, facility maintenance, or administrative tasks. All client-facing roles require additional training.
Q: What if a client has a medical emergency? All volunteers receive basic emergency response training as part of their onboarding. In the event of a medical emergency:
- Call 911 immediately, then notify the on-site supervisor.
- Guy is the designated leader in all emergency situations. If Guy is unavailable, use your best judgment and follow established emergency protocols.
- Trained first aid personnel are on site, and we have clear emergency procedures in place.
- Your primary role is to ensure the safety of everyone involved and to get qualified help as quickly as possible.
If you're certified in First Aid, provide care only within the limits of your training. If you are not trained, do not attempt to assist physically—instead, focus on alerting others and keeping the area safe until help arrives. Attempting actions outside your knowledge or training could unintentionally cause harm.
Q: How do I maintain client confidentiality? Client confidentiality is paramount—NO PHOTOS OR VIDEOS while at the ranch without EXPLICIT PERMISSION. You may not discuss client information, progress, or personal details with anyone outside the immediate program team. This includes family members, friends, and other volunteers not directly involved in that client's care. We provide specific HIPAA training for all volunteers.