volunteer with Runnin' Wj Ranch

Volunteers Are At The Heart Of Our Program

Group posing on a rustic porch under a “Runnin’ W J Ranch” banner, smiling at the camera.

Runnin' WJ Ranch relies on the dedication of over 300 volunteers annually. Volunteers are essential to the success of our equine-assisted classes, fundraisers, special events, on-site projects, and community outreach initiatives. We invite you to join our team and help us empower and transform the lives of individuals with special needs. 

Find Your Role

Man standing beside a saddled brown horse under a covered stable roof, both facing the camera.

Horse Leader

Primarily responsible for controlling the horse during weekly riding sessions, maintaining safe spacing, and consistently managing the horse's temperament, speed, and direction. For rider safety, all Horse Leader applicants must have prior horse-handling experience and require approval from both our Equine Manager and Lead Instructor.


Best for: Volunteers with prior horse experience.

Person riding a brown horse outdoors, with another person holding the reins under a clear blue sky

Sidewalker

Primarily responsible for walking beside the horse and assisting the rider in weekly riding classes through physical and emotional support, verbal communication, and instruction reinforcement. This is an active hands-on role. No prior horse experience is required.


Best for: Anyone who wants direct, hands-on time with riders.

Two people sitting in a golf cart, surrounded by stacked cardboard boxes in a warehouse-like setting.

Event Support

Volunteers help with setup, logistics, and day-of operations for the Ranch's community events and fundraisers, such as Boo at the Barn, Pork on the Fork, and the Annual Benefit Barrel Race.  No experience is required. Great for groups, families, and one-time volunteers.


Best for: Anyone who wants to get involved without a weekly commitment.

Group posing under “RUNNIN VJ RANCH” sign with a tan banner and framed certificate in front

Group Volunteering

Bring your organization, business, church, or civic group to the Ranch! We offer several ways for groups to serve together:


  • On-Site Projects: Lend an extra set of hands for various ranch needs.
  • Sponsorships: Sponsor a rider or one of our beloved therapy horses.
  • Custom Ideas: Have a unique way your group wants to help? We'd love to hear it!


Contact us today and let's get your group involved!

volunteer with Runnin' Wj Ranch

Volunteers Are At The Heart Of Our Program

Built on Community

Built on Community

From the barn to the arena, they're the ones who make it happen.

Runnin' WJ Ranch relies on the dedication of over 300 volunteers annually. Volunteers are essential to the success of our equine-assisted classes, fundraisers, special events, on-site projects, and community outreach initiatives. We invite you to join our team and help us empower and transform the lives of individuals with special needs. 

Child on a dark horse flanked by two women in a barn, all smiling and wearing helmets and jeans
Three people standing indoors in front of a “Runnin’ WJ Ka” banner, smiling at the camera.
Three men pose smiling in front of a “Runnin’ WJ Ranch” banner and wooden fence.

A Few Things to Know Before You Apply

  • Minimum age for in-class roles (sidewalker, horse leader): 14 years old. Must be able to work independently without adult supervision.
  • All new volunteers must complete a volunteer application and receive orientation and training before their first session.
  • In-class volunteers commit to a regular weekly schedule during the September–May season or on a substitute basis.
  • In-class volunteers must be able to stand or walk (sometimes briskly) for at least 45 minutes on uneven ground.
  • Event roles are flexible, reach out and we'll find something that fits your availability.

Common Questions From Future Volunteers

Five gold stars in a row on a white background

  • Do I need horse experience to volunteer at a therapeutic riding program?

    Not for most roles. Sidewalkers, our most common volunteer role, require zero horse experience. You'll receive training before your first session and you'll never be left unsupported during class. If you want to volunteer as a horse leader, some comfort around horses helps, but we'll work with you on training.

  • How do I become a volunteer at a therapeutic riding center near Texarkana?

    Start by filling out our volunteer application. From there, we'll reach out to schedule an orientation, walk you through available roles, and get you matched to the right fit before your first session.

  • What's the minimum age to volunteer at Runnin WJ Ranch?

    In-session roles (sidewalker and horse leader) require volunteers to be at least 14 years old. Younger volunteers may assist in limited capacities with direct parental supervision. Event support roles are more flexible, reach out and we'll figure out the right fit.

  • What does a typical volunteer session look like?

    As a sidewalker, you'll walk alongside a rider for the full session, right there beside the horse, providing support and encouragement while the instructor leads the class. As a horse leader, you'll guide the horse through the session while the instructor works with the rider. It's hands-on, it's structured, and it goes fast.

  • Can my church group or organization volunteer together?

    Absolutely, faith communities and group volunteers are a big part of what makes Runnin WJ Ranch go. Event support is the most flexible option for groups. Reach out and we'll find the best way to get your group involved.

Ready to Volunteer with Us?