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 NARHA Certified Instructors. Volunteers complete a comprehensive training program. Training includes horse handling and side-walker responsibilities, equine management, safety procedures, NARHA 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:
CHRISTIE – “Being a volunteer here at Water Tower Farm has been a great experience for me. This is something I have wanted to do for a long time, and I’m absolutely loving it. I have been here for about seven months and have enjoyed every minute of it. It’s a wonderful feeling knowing that I have helped someone out, or made their day just by talking with them and seeing how happy they are when they ride. I really enjoy the instructors and other volunteers I have met. Right now I'm working on getting my certification for therapeutic riding so I can become an instructor.”
KATHY – “The “W” in Water Tower Farm should stand for “Wonderful” because that is what it is. Owned and staffed by caring, committed people who are dedicated to helping children with disabilities meet the challenges of life. As a volunteer for the Therapeutic Riding Program I feel privileged to witness the transformation of these children. Some may be anxious and uncertain on the ground but once aboard their pony or horse they are transformed. They learn to ride with confidence and grace. “Rewarding” is too small a word to explain who great it is to be a part of this amazing organization. Thank you, Water Tower Farm, and keep up the good work!”
CRYSTAL - "Horses are an important part of my life and I enjoy helping others also benefit from this special connection that I enjoy so much.
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.
SHANNA is a therapeutic riding success story. Shanna was a participant/rider in our organization’s predecessor, Water Tower Farm Therapeutic Riding Center, program and has progressed to where she is now has proficient skills to a participate as a fully active Rhythm of the Rein program volunteer.
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. NARHA’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.
