VOLUNTEERING AT ARCH

How Our Volunteers Help

Volunteers are the heart and soul of ARCH, and the reason for the success of our program.  Volunteers help in many different capacities - barn work, caring for horses, exercising horses, grounds/farm/building maintenance, assisting with riders during their lessons.  Some volunteers help with office work.  Volunteers also assist at various fundraisers throughout the year.  Our volunteers come from many different backgrounds, and each contributes in his or her unique way to our success.

Hours

Weekly volunteer hours are 2:00 to 6:30 p.m. Monday thru Thursday, 9:00 a.m. to Noon Thursday only, and 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday. On Sundays help may be needed with scout troups working on badges.  We particularly need volunteers who are available during regular school hours to assist school groups with horses and riders.   Also, our Barn Manager needs help each morning feeding and caring for the horses.  This is a great way to learn about horse care if you are considering working in this field or getting your own horse.

Frequently Asked Questions

I would love to volunteer at ARCH! How do I get started?
If you are interested in volunteering, contact our volunteer coordinator (609-926-2233) for an appointment to tour our facility and watch a short DVD about volunteering at a therapeutic riding center. We can discuss how you would like to help, and determine a suitable schedule.

I don’t have any experience with horses. Can I still volunteer at ARCH?
Yes! We are happy to train our volunteers to work with the horses and riders, but we also have volunteering opportunities that involve office work or fundraising. If you have no experience with horses but would like to work in the barn, you will be trained by a capable volunteer.

How old must I be to volunteer?
For safety reasons, you must be thirteen years or older to volunteer. Volunteers are all ages - from 13 to over 70. For those younger than twelve who want to learn about ARCH and prepare themselves for eventual volunteering, please check into our Barn Rats Program.

Why does ARCH need volunteers?
Volunteers are a key part of our facility. Without the help of volunteers, ARCH would simply not be able to offer this valuable program to those who need it. Many of our riders need assistance and volunteers are needed to help with side-walking and leading the horses. Volunteers are also needed to help in the barn and ensure the horses are being tended to throughout the day.

How much time is required to volunteer?
Simply put, ARCH will accept any amount of time you are able to give. We do ask that if you want to work with our riders you commit to a weekly schedule so that we know when we can depend on you.  Volunteers are also needed for special events throughout the year.

What will I get out of this experience?
In addition to the satisfaction gained from helping others and working with our wonderful equine staff, volunteers can earn rewards such as 
t-shirts, caps, sweatshirts and jackets for hours served. At our annual Awards Dinner we recognize those who have made a special effort to support A.R.C.H.

Can my work at ARCH be used to meet community service requirements?
Yes, we will provide a letter to your school or church certifying 
community service.  However, we do require a minimum of 30 volunteer hours.  Due to the complex nature of tasks performed, we feel this amount of time is necessary to become an effective volunteer and benefit the program.

206 Asbury Road, Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234
Ph. 609-926-2233 Fax: 609-926-1930
ARCH206@aol.com