Furnace Brook Farm relies upon dedicated volunteers to assist with different facets of our program. Volunteering is a wonderful way to be part of the mission of FBF by ensuring a safe, inclusive experience for our human and equine participants.

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We are seeking to build our team of volunteers to assist during our therapeutic riding lessons in the following capacities:

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Horse Leaders:

Do you have experience working with horses and the ability to lead a horse during a mounted lesson? Have you been away from horses for awhile and would like to return to the barn? Our leaders help instructors during therapeutic riding lessons by safely leading a horse to and from the barn, within a riding arena or on short trail rides. The leader remains with the horse at all times, monitoring the environment around the horse and maintaining their comfort. The leader is required to lead the horse at the walk and trot during lessons. Lessons are scheduled for 30 minutes (45 minutes for group lessons).

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Side Walkers:

Many of our therapeutic program riders require a side walker to walk alongside their horse during a lesson to make sure the rider is secure in their seat. If your experience around horses is more limited, this is a great place to start! Side walkers walk alongside the horse throughout the lesson (30 minutes for individual lessons, 45 minutes for groups) and may provide support to stabilize riders who have challenges with balance or sitting up straight. Side walkers remain with the rider throughout the time they are in the saddle, assisting the instructor as needed to provide a safe experience for the riders, their families, other volunteers, and horses.