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Our program could not survive without the dedicated volunteers who serve us. Typically, our volunteers say they get so much more back from their commitment than that which they give. Our volunteers come from all walks of life. Some are area high school and college students, some parents of special needs children, and some are individuals who would someday like to be PATH Certified Instructors. Volunteers complete a comprehensive training program. Training includes horse handling and side-walker responsibilities, equine management, safety procedures, PATH standards, and ongoing education with monthly training and in-service programs. The center’s program is always looking for volunteers to help with the sessions we provide, and to help with fundraising drives and special events. If you are interested please contact us to arrange a visit to observe our program. Call 802-426-3781 or e-mail us at RhythmOfTheRein@aol.com.
Here's just a sampling of our more active volunteers:
 Donna Samson-Sprake - I’m an accountant and I live in Plainfield, Vermont with my husband and two children. I became a volunteer at Rhythm of The Rein in order to learn more about horses while at the same time contribute my time to the worthy work of therapeutic riding. Between the horses, the riders, the instructors and the volunteers there is so much to give and receive. It feels like everyone is learning and gaining from each other. It’s truly an honor to be surrounded by these beautiful horses and their riders. To witness and be a part of a partnership that brings real benefits to disabled persons is a gift.  Liz – “it’s said that when you volunteer, you get back more than you give. For me, as a volunteer for Rhythm of the Rein, that could not be more true. I’ve gotten back so much more than I could possibly have imagined! As a person with disabilities myself, becoming active with the clients, horses, ponies (and donkeys!), and staff of both Rhythm of the Rein and Water Tower Farm gave me my life back – and I could not be more grateful. There are not enough accolades to give to the aforementioned: the knowledge, patience, and quiet grace of Dianne and Libby, the demeanor, abilities, and respect of the Water Tower Farm staff, the patience and personalities of the horses and ponies, and the determined dignity – and smiles! – of the clients; these are at the top of the list of things that send me home content and happy after a day at the farm. I have always believed that animals, particularly horses, are the most valuable therapeutic “tools” there are; the program at Rhythm of the Rein is proof!”  Mary Cobb is one of Rhythm of the Rein's board members, and also spends time summers and weekends volunteering for sessions. Mary is a french teacher, musician, and lover of animals. A horse owner herself, Mary's talents are invaluable to our program. 
Alexandria is a horse owner and rider who plans after high school to go on to college and eventually become a veterinarian. She enjoys interacting with the young riders and has a wonderful quiet way of making their sessions memorable. 
Elisha is the sister of a child receiving therapeutic riding services at the center and works full-time at Water Tower Farm, the host site, providing horse care services to all of the herd as well as her own horse. 
Shane is the parent of a child receiving therapeutic riding services at the center and is an experienced horse handler. 
Ernie is a Marine Vietnam veteran and our go-to guy when providing services to service personnel and veterans thru our Horses for Heroes program. PATH’s model Horses for Heroes program cites the involvement of veterans in a center’s program as one of the key factors of success of the program. A veteran helps provide the unique personal perspective and support that civilians typically can’t contribute with the same degree of connection. 
Luke Appel , a local high school boy with horses of his own who is wonderful working with our horses as a horse leader.
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