Every lesson at Agape depends on people who are willing to show up, lend a hand, and make a difference. Through volunteer opportunities, individuals of all backgrounds help create meaningful experiences for participants while becoming part of a welcoming community built around service, learning, and connection.
For anyone looking to give back, develop new skills, or spend time supporting an important mission, Agape offers a place where every contribution matters.
Volunteers are at the heart of Agape’s mission
Agape’s programs simply would not be possible without volunteers.
Every week, they support lessons by leading equines, serving as sidewalkers, and assisting participants under the guidance of Agape’s staff.
If Agape had to replace every volunteer with paid staff, programming would become much more limited, reducing the opportunities available to the individuals and families who depend on their services.
Volunteers don’t just support the mission. They help make the mission possible.
Volunteer opportunities for every experience level
Previous equine experience is not required to volunteer at Agape. People arrive with different backgrounds and abilities, and many have never worked around equines before.
Every new volunteer completes an orientation that includes:
- A tour of the facility
- An introduction to Agape’s mission and programs
- Sidewalker training
- Basic safety instruction
- Guidance on volunteering the “Agape Way”
After orientation, experienced staff members provide continued instruction, guidance, and encouragement. Volunteers are not expected to arrive with specialized knowledge or know everything immediately. This ongoing support helps them become more comfortable in their roles and develop new skills over time.
Although equine handlers and sidewalkers are often among Agape’s greatest needs, volunteers can also help with herd care, facility maintenance, special events, and other essential tasks.
Serving Agape as a group
Churches, businesses, scout troops, schools, and other community organizations can also volunteer together. Groups generally assist with projects around the facility, completing important work that supports participants, staff, volunteers, and the equine herd.
These projects give groups a meaningful way to serve alongside one another while helping Agape maintain a safe and welcoming environment.
Become a part of a community
Many volunteers first come to Agape hoping to make a difference for someone else. Along the way, they often find that the experience has a lasting effect on them, too.
Volunteers have the opportunity to witness participants overcome challenges, build confidence, and accomplish meaningful goals. They also develop their own abilities, form friendships, and connect with others who share a desire to serve.
Over time, the barn can become more than a place to volunteer. It can become a place to learn, contribute, and belong.
Discover your place through volunteer opportunities
One volunteer shift has the potential to become something much bigger.
It’s an opportunity to support participants as they grow in confidence, independence, and ability. It’s a chance to become part of a mission that depends on compassionate people working together. And it’s a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful experiences begin by simply saying yes.
If you’ve been considering giving back, there’s no better time to start. Learn more about Agape’s volunteer opportunities and discover how your time and talents can help change lives, including your own.