Volunteers are the heart and soul of Northland Therapeutic Riding Center. Every year, our volunteers contribute over 4,000 hours of their time, energy, and passion to help make our programs possible. Whether you have horse experience or not, there’s a place for you here—in the barn, in the office, or out in the community.

When you volunteer with NTRC, you’re not just helping us—you’re helping to change lives, one hoofbeat at a time.

Why Volunteer at NTRC?

• Make a Difference: See firsthand how your time positively impacts participants and their families.

• Join a Community: Be part of a warm, welcoming team of like-minded people who care deeply about others.

• Learn New Skills: Gain hands-on experience with horses, event planning, fundraising, and more.

• Flexibility: We offer a range of volunteer roles to fit your skills, interests, and schedule.

Individual Volunteer Opportunities

Whether you're drawn to horses, organizing events, or capturing moments with a camera, we have a role for you!

Hands-On Roles in the Arena & Barn:

• Side Walkers: Walk alongside riders to provide physical and emotional support.

• Horse Leaders: Guide horses during lessons and ensure safety for both rider and horse.

• Grooming & Tacking: Help care for our horses and prepare them for sessions.

Event Support:

• Fundraising & Event Planning: Assist with planning and executing special events and fundraisers.

• Photography & Videography: Capture the magic of our sessions and events for promotional materials.

Behind-the-Scenes Support:

• Administrative Assistance: Help with office tasks like data entry, scheduling, and organization.

• Facility Maintenance: Support maintenance projects like painting, repairs, and cleaning.

• Day to Day Upkeep: Dragging the arena, spreading manure, moving hay, changing light bulbs

Volunteer Requirements:

• Must be 14 years or older

• Be in good physical condition for horse-related roles

• Attend a 2-hour orientation to learn safety procedures, equine-assisted activities, and hands-on horse care.

Steps to Become an Volunteer:

1. Complete the Volunteer Interest Form.

2. Submit the Volunteer Application.

3. Check the Events Calendar for an upcoming orientation session.

4. Attend Orientation.

5. Get Started! Choose a shift and confirm with our Volunteer Coordinator.

Have Questions? Contact our Volunteer Coordinator or call 816-808-1106.

Group Volunteering Opportunities

Looking for a meaningful way to give back as a team? Whether you're a local business, a corporate team, or a community organization, NTRC offers custom group volunteer experiences that create a lasting impact while building camaraderie among your team members.

Group Volunteer Activities Include:

• Farm Clean-Up Days: Tackle projects like clearing trails, cleaning stalls, and organizing tack rooms.

• Facility Improvement Projects: Painting fences, repairing barn structures, or planting flower beds.

• Horse Care Support: Assist with grooming, bathing, and other horse care tasks.

• Office Organization: Help sort paperwork, organize files, and prepare mailings.

• Event Support: Assist in planning and executing fundraising events.

Why Choose NTRC for Your Group Volunteer Day?

• Team Building: Strengthen team bonds in a unique and rewarding environment.

• Make a Visible Impact: See the difference your group makes in just one day.

• Flexible Scheduling: We’ll work with you to schedule a date that fits your team’s calendar.

• Recognition: Your company or group will be recognized on our social media platforms and other communications.

Interested in Planning a Group Volunteer Day?

1. Contact our Volunteer Coordinator to discuss your group's size, goals, and preferred date.

2. Plan your visit—we’ll work together to outline a meaningful experience.

3. Show up and make a difference!