We are always excited about gaining new volunteers at PALS. Volunteers must be over 14 years of age and horse experience is not required! PALS Volunteer flyer.

Congratulations to our Volunteer of the Year recipients! Ben Slinkard-Ratliff Becky Earle Elisa Duncan

Read the City of Bloomington Volunteer Spotlight about one of PALS' volunteers!

At PALS, we are dedicated to improving our riders' quality of life: mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually. The only way that our program can accomplish these goals is to rely on volunteers and friends, like you.

In order to get volunteers familiar with our program, they participate in a volunteer training and orientation to get hands-on experience with horses which will help prepare them for lessons. Orientations are usually held at the beginning of each session.

Some of PALS volunteer opportunities include:

Weekly Leading/Sidewalking Volunteer Shifts at PALS are:

• Mondays 11:00 – 3:30, 3:30 – 5:30, 12:00 – 5:00, and 5:00 – 8:30
• Tuesdays 12:00 – 3:30, 3:30 – 5:30, 12:00 – 5:00, and 5:00 – 8:30
• Wednesdays 12:00 – 3:30, 3:30 – 5:30, 12:00 – 5:00, and 5:00 – 7:30
• Thursdays 12:00 – 3:30, 3:30 – 5:30, 12:00 – 5:00, and 5:00 – 7:30

Download A Volunteer Packet/Forms

• Must be at least 14 years old and able to work independently.
• Must attend a PALS volunteer training.
• Must be physically fit enough to walk approximately one hour, jog occasionally, and be able to hold arms up at shoulder height to support a rider when necessary.
• Must be emotionally fit enough to cope responsibly with situations and concerns as they arise pertaining to riders and horses, and always use good judgment.
• Volunteer applicants requiring one-one staffing on an ongoing basis can’t volunteer due to the nature of the work and potential for problems with the horse and rider.
• Is requested to volunteer on a regular basis in order to experience the benefits of the program and to develop relationships with other volunteers, staff, riders, and horses.
• Is covered by PALS insurance while on the premises.

Tentative 2010 Volunteer Training Dates
1/16/10 at 1:00 – 4:00 pm
3/6/10 at 1:00 – 4:00 pm
5/1/10 at 1:00 – 4:00 pm
6/12/10 at 1:00 – 4:00 pm
9/7/10 at 5:30 - 8:30 pm
9/18/10 at 1:00 – 4:00 pm

See what other volunteers have to say about PALS:

“I love seeing the joy in the riders’ faces as they relax into their riding experience. Developing a relationship with the horses is also heartwarming.”
- Mary (PALS volunteer)

“It is difficult to imagine our clients have learned more from this program and experience than I have. It changes for the better the way you see all people.”
- Melinda (PALS Volunteer)

"PALS is a true synthesis between learning and fun for participant, horse, volunteer, and instructor alike."
-Tyler (PALS volunteer)

“I am involved with PALS because I like the interaction between the riders and horses. Not only do I get to know the riders, I get to see their progress over time which is extremely rewarding. I have met a lot of great people and made good friends through PALS.”
– April (PALS volunteer)

“Riding a horse and becoming one with it has always been among life's most special experiences for me. To be able to help people with disabilities share in that glorious experience is just as special. The pure joy on their faces, the empowerment and freedom they feel, are precious gifts that I am honored to share in giving.”
–Amy (PALS volunteer)

If you are interested in learning more about volunteering at PALS, please contact PALS at 812-336-2798 or email us. We will then give you a packet of information about volunteering and get you signed up for the next volunteer training and orientation!

We look forward to hearing from you and meeting you in the arena!