Volunteer Opportunities
We couldn't accomplish our mission without you! How can you help?
New Volunteer Open House!
Monday, May 20th, 2024
from 4:30-6:30pm
Feel free to drop in any time!
at the SMILES Facility
(N2666 County Road K, Darien WI)
We are always needing dedicated volunteers to join the SMILES team!
We are in need of:
- Horse leaders
- Side walkers (to give support to our clients)
- Special events!
Do you know someone who would be interested?
No horse experience necessary
(must be 15 years old or older).
We would LOVE to train you!
Here you can learn about the variety of volunteer positions available at SMILES.
This is the information you need to join the helpful, healing world of therapeutic riding!
HORSE HANDLER
Horse Handlers at SMILES lead the horse and/or assist the client in controlling the horse during a class. The Horse Handler is focused on the horse to ensure the safety of the client, and helps maintain the horse's pace, calmness, and focus. This role is perfect for those that are familiar with horses, or who are interested in learning how to work with horses.
Horse Handlers must attend an orientation and training.
Weekly commitment in an 8-week session.
SIDE WALKER
The Side Walker's role is to provide support as indicated by the instructor. It may be direct physical support, assisting with balance throughout class activities, or verbal support to reinforce the instructor's directions. This role is perfect for those that enjoy interacting with clients in a more hands-on way!
Side Walkers must attend an orientation and training. Weekly commitment in an 8-week session required.
SPECIAL EVENTS VOLUNTEER
We rely heavily on our team of volunteers to help with event preparation, execution, and break-down.
SMILES holds several major events each year, including the Mane Event Golf Outing, Equine Seminar and Tack Sale, Miles for SMILES 5K Walk/Run, horse shows, and more! This role is perfect for those with seasonal availability, or skills in event planning or fundraising.
CORPORATE, COMMUNITY, OR SCHOOL GROUP VOLUNTEERS
SMILES is a 35-acre working farm, and there is always something to do on the property! We welcome groups to help with a wide variety of projects, including painting, cleaning, repairs, gardening, lawn care, and more. Projects can be from 2 hours to a full day! We look forward to seeing you and your coworkers and friends on the farm, and thank you in advance for your help with maintaining the SMILES facility for our clients and horses!
SPECIAL SKILLS VOLUNTEER
Volunteers who possess skills or professional/technical experience that may benefit SMILES, such as photography, marketing, graphic design, computer knowledge, farm maintenance, etc., are encouraged to contact us. We would love to have your special skills and talents help accomplish our mission!