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Volunteering

* our next volunteer orientation will be held Saturday, April 17 from 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. *

Volunteers make a difference

Volunteers have an opportunity to make a huge difference in the lives of our Cheff Center riders. Volunteers can learn about disabilities and horse management, as well as enjoy the physical fitness and social benefits of volunteering. Besides working with the horse and rider, there are many other opportunities for volunteers in the program.

Detailed training for volunteers is provided and is scheduled on an on-going basis, as our program is in need of volunteers year-round. Special Volunteer Updates allow for continuing education. No previous horse experience is required.

Information for volunteers

volunteer must be at least 13 years old and physically fit to walk, and occasionally jog, in the arena or outdoors for approximately one hour.

Thirteen-year-olds who complete an interview process may volunteer in the barn and on special projects, but not in the ring during a riding class.

The Cheff Center has an extensive teen volunteer program that takes place each summer in conjunction with our summer camp. Training is provided.

We ask that our volunteers choose a time to volunteer and come at that time regularly each week.

Volunteers are needed throughout the school year during weekday mornings, afternoons, and evenings.

During summer camp, volunteer times vary, with most camp days beginning around 8:30 a.m. and running till approximately 4:00 p.m. Some summer evening volunteer hours are also available.

How to become a volunteer:

  1. Download or pick up (and fill out) volunteer paperwork
  2. Contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Kim Henning at 269-731-4471 Extension 111, or e-mail Kim,to set up an orientation or to answer any questions you may have
  3. Bring your completed paperwork (including the last page of the volunteer manual) to your orientation
  4. Complete orientation
  5. VOLUNTEER!

Keep in mind we have three major areas in which volunteers participate:

  • Instructor/rider assistance
  • Barn, grounds and horse duties
  • Office and special events support

 

Volunteer Downloads

 

Cheff News

Thank You Secret Sponsor!
In response to our plea, a very generous donor stepped up to help make riding in 2010 a possibility for one of our long time students ... Read more

Cheff is turning 40!
Though it’s hard to believe, Cheff is approaching its 40th year of service! To celebrate this great milestone, we are collecting old photographs, newer photographs, newspaper clippings, and written Cheff memories or testimonials from students, volunteers, caretakers, family and anyone else who has had contact with the center ... Read more

View all news stories 
What people are saying:
The Cheff Center has given Emily great confidence and strength. The volunteers and staff are excellent! It’s such a joy to me to see how happy Emily is when she is riding.
Cheff Parent
Add your own testimonial!

Newsletter:
Volume 3, Issue 3

If you have any questions, if you want to get on the mailing list, or if you'd like to get involved, call 269-731-4471 or email us!

Downloadable Forms:

Volunteers:

Volunteer Packet

Volunteer Manual

Potential Students/Patients:
Student Information Packet