Are you looking for something rewarding to fill a few hours a week? Volunteers are the heart and soul of TROT. They help students groom and saddle their horses; assist and support the student as side walkers and leaders during each lesson; and assist in barn duties. Volunteers provide valuable assistance to the instructors and other TROT staff.

While experience with horses is valuable, it is not a requirement. Two volunteer training sessions will be held on Aug. 27 at 9 a.m. and Aug. 29 at 5 p.m. All volunteers are required to attend one of the sessions.

Please note that volunteers wishing to serve as side walkers and leaders during lessons must also meet certain physical criteria. They must be able to walk on uneven ground for up to 30 minutes and be able to jog for up to five minutes. They also must be able to hold one arm at shoulder height or higher for the same period of time, and be physically capable of responding to emergency situations involving horse and rider.

Please contact FENCE if you are interested in becoming a TROT volunteer. Call 828-859-9021 or info@fence.org.

– article submitted by Tracie Hanson