“Blessed
is the influence of one true, loving human soul on another.”
--George Eliot
Contact us:
Forward Stride
18218 SW Horse Tale Dr.
Beaverton, OR 97007
Tel: (503) 590-2959
info@forwardstride.org
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Dear Kris,
I wanted to say thank you. I don't feel like that says
enough for what I learned from my experience at Forward
Stride but I will try to summarize how I grew in volunteering...
The more I went to Forward Stride, the more I began
to see the different backgrounds of the volunteers come
out. Some were in school, others had jobs and were also
going to school, still others had careers, and some
were parents... And that's when it began to sink in
for me. It's not the education you have or the career
you have... you can have all those things but in the
end they're just going to suffocate you if you don't
give of yourself.
I walked away with a greater appreciation for everything
I took for granted on a daily basis. I feel kind of
an acheyness when I think about how much more those
children will experience in life thanks to Forward Stride
and people like you who thrive on watching them grow
and do things that many people would just assume...were
impossible.
Sincerely,
Noah D. |
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We wouldn't exist if it were not for our volunteers. They are dedicated.
They are remarkable. And, they directly affect the quality of so
many people's lives. Volunteers, ages 12 and over, contribute over 1,500 hours on a monthly basis.
Program Volunteers
The Program Volunteers work directly with the Instructors or Therapists to provide assistance prior to and during lessons. The main responsibilities include participating in the lesson by leading the horse or sidewalking, and grooming and tacking the horses. What a wonderful opportunity to work outside with our clients and horses. Not too sure-footed around horses? Not a problem...all training is provided!
Our Horse Care Workgroup is responsbile for feeding and turn-out 7 days a week. Morning, late afternoon and early evening shifts are available. For more information on our amazing therapy herd, click here.
Qualifications:
- Capable of performing all tasks assigned.* Note for volunteers with limitations (physical or of any other kind): To ensure program safety, all leaders, side-walkers and horse handlers must pass the appropriate competency checklists. If for any reason you are not capable of passing these competency checklists, please inquire about other volunteer opportunities.
- After training, able to perform tasks with minimal supervision.
- Able to accept constructive feedback.
- Able to commit to a consistent volunteer schedule.
- Horse knowledge and experience is helpful, but is not necessary.
- Dress in an appropriate and professional manner.
- Willing to learn and follow Forward Stride's procedures.
- Follow Forward Stride's horse handling techniques and Equine Management Standards.
Responsibilities:
- Arrive promptly when scheduled.
- Assist instructors and therapists by leading or sidewalking with riders.
- Assist staff with lesson preparation.
- Assist with activities required at the end of the day.
- Communicate client needs to staff - you are part of a team!
- Perform miscellaneous tasks as assigned by staff.
- Attend continuing education opportunities.
If you are unable to commit to a weekly schedule, we encourage you to consider job sharing. Above all, your commitment is required as your presence allows our clients to participate.
Office Volunteers
Under the direction of the administrative staff, office volunteers assist in the administrative function of the organization, which may include helping with operations, mailings, data entry, filing or answering phones. Our office is open Monday - Thursday, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Fundraising Volunteers
Working with Forward Stride staff and/or event chairpersons, these volunteers help plan and execute our exciting special events like The Cowgirl Ball.
Other opportunities may include thank you calls, on-site tours or participation on outreach committees.
Here's how:
STEP 1. Click on the above registration link and fill out the online volunteer registration form.
Within your registration, you'll need to sign up for a mandatory training session. You will receive a confirmation email with details about the training session and directions to our facility. Please read carefully. All volunteers over the age of 18 are subject to a background check. The minimum age for volunteering is 12.
STEP 2. Attend the mandatory volunteer training session. We'll teach you all you need to know to get started! At the training session, we'll review the different volunteer options so you can choose how you'd like to help.
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