VOLUNTEER INSTRUCTOR ASSISTANT JOB DESCRIPTION

* Please note that the majority of our volunteer instructor assistants begin as a ranch hands first. Some exceptions are made depending on one's experience in this, or similar industries. Volunteering as a ranch hand gives people the opportunity to get to know our equine teaching staff and our barn, so that when they transfer to our teaching activities in the afternoon, it's a smoother transition. Also, our lesson season runs from September to May.

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DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
The volunteer Instructional Assistant functions as part of a rehabilitation team, assisting in providing horsemanship training to physically handicapped persons ranging in age from seven (7) on up. Specific duties include: general stable maintenance duties, assisting students in fetching, grooming, tacking, and mounting horses; leading, sidewalking, and riding double when instructed to do so. Provide emotional support and encouragement. Assist Instructor with care and training of school horses. Supervise and assist students with written and oral lessons. May be called upon to present a lesson on occasion. Demonstrate safe practices and compliance of stable rules at all times.

JOB REQUIREMENTS
Dependability, punctuality, able to work as part of a team, able to accept directives from supervisor, ability to communicate job concerns to supervisor in timely and appropriate manner, able to provide physical assistance to disabled persons, good health, emotional and psychological stability. Able to reach, able to lift minimum of 50 pounds. Outgoing personality, ability to support and encourage others.

QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum age 18, at least one (1) year's experience working around horses, verifiable knowledge of horse behavior and safe techniques in handling and riding as demonstrated to the Barn Manager. Experience with disabled persons preferred but not necessary. No court referrals.

LENGTH OF COMMITMENT
Minimum of six (6) months.

TIME REQUIRED
One (1) day per week for a minimum of four (4) hours. Hours of operation are Monday through Thursday 8:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

TRAINING PROVIDED
One to one training by staff in CAMELOT methods. Orientation to horses, students, equipment, stable rules and procedures. Volunteer manual will be provided.

IMPORTANCE OF JOB TO THE ORGANIZATION'S PURPOSE
You, the volunteer, are critical to this organization in providing services to students. If you can dedicate yourself to the requirements and philosophy of this program, we guarantee an experience in learning and sharing that will flavor your life forever.