Volunteer

WindWalkers relies heavily on the invaluable skills, talent, and time of volunteers.

Volunteers at WindWalkers not only help deliver services to extraordinary riders, but also in summer camps, schooling horses, maintaining the facility, taking on office tasks, and assisting with special events and fundraisers. Our volunteers are at the heart of our programs. Anyone ages 12 to 82 can apply to volunteer. Our volunteers run the gamut from retirees to students, as long as you are here to make a difference.

Our ranch is home to 20+ horses, 6 goats, and a few dogs, and barn cats, there is always a need for help! WindWalkers cannot operate without the hundreds of dedicated volunteers — they are the backbone — the very fiber of our success! 

BACKGROUND CHECK PLEDGE (English/Spanish)

BACKGROUND CHECK FORM (English)

BACKGROUND CHECK FORM (Spanish)

No matter what your skills or special talents are, it is likely that we have a place and a need for them at WindWalkers!

WindWalkers provide all the training you will need to be part of our volunteer community inside and outside of the arena. We also extend opportunities to our volunteers to learn about the extraordinary individual participants, develop or hone horse handling skills and experience the power of the human-animal bond while increasing physical fitness and enjoying the social benefits of volunteering at the ranch.

Become a Volunteer with Wind Walkers

Thank you for wanting to become a volunteer! Follow these easy steps to get started:

  1. Download the Forms
    Click on the links below to download the necessary forms. You’ll need to fill them out before your site visit.
  2. Fill Out the Registration Forms
    Complete the registration form with your details.
  3. Read the Volunteer Handbook
    Be sure to read through the volunteer handbook so you know what to expect.
  4. Sign the Last Page
    Print out the last page of the handbook, sign it, and bring it with you to your site visit.
  5. $10 Registration Fee (for volunteers 18 and older)
    If you’re 18 or older, please fill out the necessary forms below for a background check. There’s a $10 registration fee to cover the cost, please read out background check pledge to learn more. You can bring the form and fee with you to your site visit or click here.
  6. Set Up Your Site Visit/Orientation
    Once your forms are completed, call the office at                       (970) 963-2909 to schedule your site visit or orientation.
  7. Email the Forms
    Once everything is filled out and signed, email the completed forms to info@windwalkers.org or bring them with you to your site visit.

We can’t wait to have you join our team! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out.

VOLUNTEER HANDBOOK

VOLUNTEER REGISTRATION (English)

VOLUNTEER REGISTRATION (Spanish)

Volunteer Training & Supervision

At WindWalkers, we provide thorough training and ongoing supervision to ensure all volunteers feel confident and supported in their roles. Volunteers are encouraged to ask questions and seek guidance at any time. We want everyone to feel comfortable and capable in their volunteer responsibilities.

We believe in a supportive environment where no volunteer will ever be asked to perform a task that goes beyond their comfort zone or skill level. We recognize that each person has unique strengths, and we’ll always work with you to match you to the right tasks.

Safety First
Your safety and well-being are our top priorities. That’s why we operate under the “SAFE, SAFER, SAFEST” rule, ensuring that all tasks and activities are carried out with the highest level of care and caution. If you’re ever unsure or feel uncomfortable with something, please let us know right away. We are ALWAYS here to help!

With any questions on our Volunteer Training & Supervision, please call our office (970) 963-2909 or email info@windwalkers.org.

Lesson Needs
Monday - Saturday

Horse Leader

This volunteer has been approved as a horse handler by the WindWalkers’ staff. Generally, staff and approved horse handlers will bring the horse or horses in from the pasture/paddock and take them to the arena or outdoor grooming area.

Sidewalking

The sidewalker is responsible for aiding the instructor with the client. Sidewalkers walk beside the horse and offer the rider physical support, assist with the activity and engage the rider as directed by the instructor. Sidewalkers may be assigned to assist a client at the horse ramp. Sidewalkers are the rider’s “safety angel,” assisting in maintaining balance and/or limb control. Some lifting and walking is required.

Groomer/Tack

A trained volunteer will “tack up” the horse with the equipment that the instructor has specified. Training will be provided on how to groom, as well as how to correctly tack a horse.

Join our email list to stay updated on volunteer opportunities!