Sunnybrook Meadows is a non-profit organization providing therapeutic riding to children and adults with special needs in the central Susquehanna area. Volunteers are the heart of our program allowing riders who otherwise could not ride to receive the physical, mental and emotional benefits of horseback riding. Horseback riding strengthens weak muscles, helps to improve self-esteem, balance, and coordination, and develops self-awareness in the rider. More information about the program can be found at our website: https://sunnybrookmeadows.com/.

Depending on the rider’s ability, up to three volunteers per rider are required to ensure a safe riding experience. At the head of the horse, Experienced Leaders with a well-developed horse sense ensure the safety of the horse and guide the horse in the arena and on the trails. To each side of the horse side walkers assist the rider and ensure the riders safety. Side walking can range from hands on support of a weaker rider to a safety spotter or assisting a rider learning to self-guide the horse. An instructor is also with each rider or riding group.

Additionally, volunteers prepare horses for riding as well as general care of the horses. To volunteer as a leader horse experience is required however anyone over the age of 15 can be trained to volunteer as a side walker. 13-15-year-olds are welcome to volunteer in the barn caring for and preparing the horses. Volunteer opportunities include several different days. The program operates Tuesday and Thursday evenings as well as Friday mornings.

By volunteering you can help keep the smiles on our rider’s faces. SunnyBrook Meadows is currently seeking volunteers for the 2020 riding season from March 17th till November 6th. Volunteering for SunnyBrook is an excellent opportunity to serve others and while receiving some physical exercise, as well as a great sense of satisfaction. Seeing the smile on the faces of the individuals we serve is as rewarding as the improvements we see in their physical abilities.

All of our volunteers are required to have a Child Abuse Clearance Certificate before they can volunteer. You can obtain your clearance free of charge at: https://www.compass.state.pa.us/CWIS/Public/Home. If you have already completed the Child Abuse and have received your certificate, please bring a copy to the training.

A volunteer training session will be held Saturday February 29, 2020 at 1:00 PM. To reserve your opportunity to train please call (734)536-0956.

Come out and Volunteer with a great team at SunnyBrook Meadows for our 2020 riding season!