Volunteer Training & Workshops
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!
Please join us in becoming a class volunteer! Whether you are an enthusiast with many years of horse experience, or this is your first time working with horses, your time with us is invaluable and appreciated!
Volunteers can be involved in our classes as either Horse Handlers or Side Walkers. Volunteer training for these roles is to ensure that everyone working with our horses and clients knows and consistently uses proper techniques.
This attention to quality and consistency allows us to run safe programs and maintain the high standards we strive for as a PATH Intl. Premier Accredited Center.
When is the next Volunteer Training?
We host volunteer training classes in a group setting while we are on break from our sessions, during the months of March, June, September, and December. This allows volunteers to start at the beginning of a session. Seasoned volunteers are also welcome to attend to brush up on their skills!
The next training opportunity is for volunteers who are able to commit to volunteering in the 2024 Summer Session (July 1-August 24).
- Tuesday, June 4th, 5pm-8pm
- Saturday, June 8th, 9am-12pm
- Thursday, June 13th, 5pm-8pm
Please contact the Volunteer Coordinator to RSVP for any of the above dates.
For more information on becoming a volunteer, please visit our Volunteer Requirements page.
Online Volunteer Training
We have created several online training modules that are designed to be done before you begin volunteering in classes. Each module will take about 10 minutes to complete, and include a short quiz at the end. Once you take the quiz, the Volunteer Coordinator will be alerted that you completed the module. These can be done before or after your in-person volunteer training at the stable.
Please click any of the links to get started!
"The social aspect of SMILES is an amazing thing to be a part of! The students, volunteers, staff, and horses come together every week for learning, for challenges, and for fun!"
-Alison Brown, SMILES Volunteer & Kindergarten Teacher