Get Involved

Contact ttrc.information@ttu.edu to receive details regarding paperwork, pricing, scheduling and more, for TTRC's Hippotherapy and Therapeutic Riding sessions.

 

Volunteer Opportunities

Side Walker

Provide safety and support for participants during sessions, by performing either a thigh or ankle hold. Side walkers must be capable of walking on uneven footing for the duration of the sessions (30-45 minutes), typically with their arm in an upward position, supporting the participant's hip/leg. Side walkers are scheduled to arrive 30 minutes BEFORE the session starts, to assist with arena set up and grooming or tacking if the horse leader needs assistance.

Horse Leader

Control the horse during sessions, lead them in different directions and patterns, based upon the request of a therapist or Therapeutic Riding Instructor. Leaders must be capable of walking on uneven footing for the duration of the sessions (30-45 minutes). Leaders are scheduled to arrive 30 minutes BEFORE the session starts, to assist with catching, haltering, grooming and tacking of the horse. Leaders also take the horse in the arena 15 minutes before the session start time, to warm up the horse and them any equipment that might be used in the sessions.

Volunteer Requirements

• Must be at least 16 years of age. 
• Attend an Introduction/Side Walker Training (Required Training).
  • Volunteers can attend an optional horse leader training.
• Complete the TTRC's volunteer paperwork and background check at a scheduled Introduction/Side Walker Training. 

You're ready to volunteer… Now what?

Scheduling

TTRC follows the Texas Tech academic schedule and holds sessions during the fall, spring and summer semesters. The days/times that sessions are offered each semester varies based upon availability of TTRC student workers, therapists, and horses.

Contact

To receive information regarding upcoming volunteer trainings, contact tangela.irwin@ttu.edu.