The primary goal of lessons volunteers is to be a mentor and to provide a safe environment for the riders. While in the arena, side walkers and horse leaders work under the direct supervision of a PATH Intl. Certified instructor.

Side walkers assist the instructors during mounting and dismounting process, during the ride by encouraging the riders to participate according to the instructors cues, to protect the rider by offering an arm-over-thigh or support hold, and to help the rider stretch, grow and develop to their fullest potential. Side walkers help between lessons with disinfecting props and tack, greeting riders and their families, and assisting staff and horse leaders as needed.

Horse Leaders assist barn staff with grooming, mucking, tacking and transitioning horses between lessons. Volunteers also lead horses to and from lessons, warm up horses before lessons begin and lead a horse during the lesson as prompted by the lesson instructor.

Ability to walk and jog on an uneven, sandy surface for 45 minutes is required. Experience with veterans, people with disabilities and/or horses is recommended but not required. An orientation will be scheduled upon receiving a volunteer application. Qualified volunteers are required to complete a horse leader training session and evaluation.