Volunteer in Equine Therapy, Caribbean

Volunteer and support a local equine therapy project that uses trained horses to aid the recovery of disabled children and young people who have experienced trauma. As a V2 Volunteer, you support a dedicated staff working with children of varying physical abilities, from different backgrounds, who may be dealing with trauma.

You will work as a Children's Activity Leader at the centre. As a volunteer, you support the centre's programmes which include summer camps, after school clubs and weekly horse based sessions. You will be surrounded by kids, so conserve your energy! The role involves helping children during arts & crafts, music & dance, yoga and nature walk activities. You will also be surrounded by horses and help the children to handle horses, care for them and go for rides.

Volunteers provide:

• Attention:  provide one-on-on support to each child during activities with horses
• Physical assistance:  support the child with proper form during rides, such as focusing on proper posture and muscle control. This develops physical strength, teaches them good riding form and helps them to build confidence.
• Encourage:  support children's activity and communication, to help them experience a sense of bonding and affection that play and being with horses can bring
• Fun:  smiles are infectious and free! It's really simple but true- enjoy what you do, engage with your colleagues, give your best in your work. Then you will know you've made a difference

We're looking for volunteers who will inspire through action, and be inspired by the environment. As a guide, volunteer positions are suited to:

• Those comfortable around horses
• Volunteers with the energy and interest to work, play and encourage children
• Experience working with vulnerable children and young people is a great advantage
• Volunteers with patience, motivation and a positive attitude.
• Equine lovers and those wishing to experience the serenity of being around horses will get the chance to look after the horses in their beachside paddock and going on awesome horse trails throughout the beautiful island of Tobago.
• Gardeners can enjoy teaching kids the wonders of nature, being green fingered and taking pride in growing things.
• It's not only the kids who get to participate in activities – you share the experience too! Having fun, enjoying yourself and sharing that joy builds an important connection with the children which is a big part of the healing environment fostered at the sanctuary.

With V2 you will: 

• Make your experience count – we guarantee you placements in areas of need, with local organisations running sustainable projects. All our projects are devised to assist in practical ways in alliance with partners who tell us their needs.
• Skill development through total immersion - you gain practical skills, strengthen your existing skill base, develop adaptability and learn frameworks to function in underfunded environments. Your time is not wasted.
• Personal development – learn about yourself, your latent skills and reflect in a tranquil environment outside of your norm. Open up to a unique experience through the placement, connecting with your colleagues and being in Tobago.
• Work & Play – we compliment your active volunteer adventures with dedicated time to relax and explore the island. All our projects are based in scenic settings: coastal, tranquil countryside or near bustling towns. Get to know your environment, connect with people and take adventures.
• Support: before and during – to get the most out of your experience, you need to hit the ground running. We provide essential support before you leave home. Once here, we are with you for pick up and departure, a day of orientation, followed by on-site support and a dedicated supervisor at your place of volunteering. We've got your back – leaving you to focus on maximising your time.
• Legacy building – when you leave, you join the V2 Volunteer Alumni whose positive impact continues at home. Be an advocate in any way you can. From using your social media channels to promote your volunteer charity to your network, to getting physical with fund raising activities like a Fun Run or team event. The good doesn't stop once the plane lands home – we keep that door open with news and developments.