Volunteers Needed for Equine Assisted Therapy and Barn Work!

Welcome to Sundance Circle Hippotherapy, where we strive to improve the quality of life for our patients through the power and presence of the equine. Sundance Circle Hippotherapy is a team of volunteers, staff, therapists and, of course, horses, based in Sumner, WA founded in 2017. We offer hippotherapy which takes place in our covered arena on specially trained horses as well as outdoor therapy. Horses provide a unique input to assist physical, occupational and speech therapists in providing top quality care in their specialty.

Volunteers play a key role in assisting the therapist and ensuring they’re able to meet patient goals. Many patients greatly benefit from the physical and emotional support of the volunteers that they get to know. Some of these roles may take place in the arena or in the barn/pastures. These volunteer opportunities support children and young adults with disabilities as they receive this unique therapy. It's a fun and rewarding experience where you can help to make a remarkable impact in someone's life.

We have multiple opportunities for volunteers at Sundance Circle Hippotherapy including:

• Sidewalkers help the therapist by supporting the patient and ensure their safety while riding the horse during the session.
• Horse leads are responsible for getting the horse prepared/warmed up for each therapy session, and leading the horse during the session.
• Barn team members give their time helping with various chores in and around the barn; to include herd turn-out and bring-in, cleaning stalls and pastures, and feeding horses.

The sessions take place in a covered arena and shielded from the elements; however, the arena is not temperature controlled. Good physical condition is recommended, as lots of walking is required. Shifts typically last 1-3 hours and are available Monday through Saturday from 8am-5pm.

If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. We're always looking for volunteers who are passionate about helping kids, love horses, and are ready to make a difference!