Volunteering at CTRA

volunteers give therapy horse "Floella" a bath

Volunteers give therapy horse "Floella" a bath

Our volunteers make a difference.

Whether working with clients, spending time with the therapy horses, or getting your hands dirty down on the farm—there is something here for everyone looking to get involved.

All of the programs at the Cowichan Therapeutic Riding Association are made possible by volunteers. It is the collective power of our volunteer personnel that enables CTRA to open its doors (and stables) day after day, year after year.

CTRA is always looking for help—our incredibly diverse program is also a working farm!

Some of the volunteer opportunities at CTRA include:

Side-walking—help clients benefit from therapy sessions and discover freedom from the back of a horse! Side-walkers help steady and support participants during their ride.

Horse-handling– horse-handlers lead our therapy horses and ensure that client sessions remain safe and enjoyable.

Barn Chores/Horse Grooming—if you enjoy fresh air, exercise, and the smell of the stable, grab a shovel or a brush and join in!

Help out with the “Free Horse Stuff Store” or “Used Tack Store” initiatives!- these projects are perfect for volunteers who desire less physical work.

Special Events/Committees—if you enjoy planning and facilitating special events or fundraisers, our committees welcome you!

Extra hands are always welcome in the stable, office, or garden.

* Supervision and training provided by accredited staff as necessary

Requirements and Expectations

  • Minimum 14 years old.
  • Attend an orientation and interview before starting.
  • CTRA runs three 10 week Sessions in the fall, winter, and spring. CTRA also offers 6 week summer programs. We ask Horse-Handlers and Side-Walkers to commit to the entire length of the session. Commitment to regular attendance for the entire session is very important in providing continuity for the rider.
  • We typically schedule 1—2 hours of volunteering per week at a mutually convenient time.
  • All CTRA personnel, including volunteers, must submit a criminal record check (Duncan Community Policing offers free checks for CTRA volunteers).
  • Side-Walkers and Horse-Handlers will be asked to attend volunteer training and orientations as necessary. Skill development clinics are also available throughout the year.
  • Volunteers should be comfortable around horses but it is not necessary to have a high level of horsemanship skills.
  • Volunteers assisting in the riding sessions should have a reasonable level of fitness. Able to walk briskly for 45 minutes to an hour and able to jog for short distances (length of arena) with arm at shoulder height.
  • Our programs depend on our volunteer personnel—please only sign up for a commitment you can honor.
  • Our volunteers are asked to honor policies that support confidentiality and protect our clients.
    • horse handler and side walker help rider at the trot

    Volunteering at CTRA is a great way to interact with both human and equine friends while getting fresh air and exercise!

    volunteers and rider in front of providence farm "big house"

    If you or someone you know would be interested in joining our community we would love to hear from you! Do not hesitate contact Colleen at the office via phone: 250-746-1028, send us an email: info@ctra.ca, visit us online at www.ctra.ca, or stop by for a tour of the farm. We look forward to meeting you!