**This opportunity is open for volunteers in training to be qualified Pony Ride Assistants at the Carriage Hill Riding Center. These volunteers have qualified as Barn Aides and completed the Pony Ride Assistant virtual training. Now, they will shadow qualified volunteers and Carriage Hill Riding Center staff to practice the skills needed to become a qualified Pony Ride Assistant volunteer. **
Watch a young child experience their first pony ride! Be a part of the magic! Volunteering as a Pony Ride Assistant is a fun way to support the Carriage Hill Riding Center on the weekends. For many of our riders, a Pony Ride is their first experience with a horse or pony, and that experience creates a lasting memory. Pony Ride Assistants support the pony ride programming at the Carriage Hill Riding Center leading ponies by hand while the children ride, serving as a spotter, or walking alongside the pony during the ride.
Impact
Volunteers will shadow qualified volunteers and staff to learn how to provide a safe, fun pony ride experience for young children and families attending MetroParks Pony Ride programs. Volunteer support for this programming allows us to individual attention to all riders and their families providing a life-long memorable experience and fostering a deep connection to animals and nature.
Tasks
- Groom & Tack (ponies)
- Assist rider with helmet
- Re-check saddle before mounting rider
- Assist rider onto pony (may involve lifting)
- One person leads the pony; second person watches the child to ensure a centered position (this can be a customer)
- Escort the child to and from the pony
- Keep ponies watered and un-tacked during downtime
Eligibility
- This opportunity is open to Long-Term, Short-Term and Youth Volunteers (ages 14-17) who have qualified as Barn Aides and completed the virtual Carriage Hill Riding Center Pony Ride Assistant Training. Learn more about our types of service here.
- Note: This opportunity is for ages 14 and older. Volunteers ages 14-17 must first be approved by a Volunteer Coordinator to Respond to this opportunity. Contact volunteer.services@metroparks.org to request approval.
Additional Notes
- Check-in with the Staff Lead upon arrival.
- This opportunity involves standing and walking.
- Volunteers who are comfortable lifting 25-45 pounds may be asked to assist kids onto their ponies.
Look for additional details about this opportunity at the bottom of this listing! See the Programming Volunteer Position Description for more detailed information.
