The East Point Horspice herd has been touching lives all winter through newly developing programs, but we are fast approaching the annual therapy riding season signaling the EPH beginning of summer. Now is the time when EPH is looking for volunteers to assist the riders during the ten-week riding horse-a-palooza.
The riding program goes every Thursday and Friday with the riders beginning Thursday May 12 and ending with the year-end BBQ on Friday July 29. Anyone interested in being a volunteer is encouraged to attend the volunteer orientation scheduled for Thursday May 5 at 5:30 p.m. in the Memorial Volunteer Center. This program could not exist without the generous support of our amazing volunteers, and we are always looking for anyone who feels they would benefit from being around the horses, the riders and the other like-minded people who are kind enough to share their precious time with these individuals. Previous horse experience is not required as we continually strive to train our volunteers with safety in mind. During the orientation volunteers are given tours of the facilities, shown proven techniques used with the riders, and are encouraged to get to become more familiar with the horses through hands-on interactions. Like us, each horse has a different personality and it is fun to learn to appreciate everyone’s special characteristics. Again, safety is paramount and never compromised.
In the past, there have been volunteers wishing to spend more time with the horses and these people have offered incredible behind the scenes support to the program. If you wish to interact directly with the riders, this opportunity is also available. There is never a shortage of things to be accomplished in successfully performing a unique program such as this and there always seems to be something for everyone. The amount of time committed to the season is entirely up to the volunteer and it truly is a get out what you put in situation. There should be a disclaimer though: this sort of relationship with the horses and riders can become very addicting, and you may find yourself wishing to spend more time with the horses than previously expected. Don’t say we didn’t warn you.
You are encouraged to visit the EPH website, www.eastpointhorspice.com to learn more and check out some pictures from previous years. If you’d like to visit more about becoming a volunteer, please contact Charlene at (308) 762-3848 or eph@bbc.net. We look forward to seeing you on May 5 where the life you change may be your own.