Volunteering is such an essential part of my life. Last summer, I began volunteering at Horseability, a horseback riding program for people with disabilities. It was founded by Kathleen McGowan, who lent her horse to a friend for physical therapy and started this excellent organization when she observed the positive results of equine therapy for children. Horseability offers a program for people with all types of disabilities, whether neurological or physical. 

 

Being a volunteer consists of many tasks. For example, I need to ensure that the horse I am working with is taken care of before and after they are ridden, and I also have to make sure that the kids I am working with understand what they need to do while keeping them safe. Volunteering there has taught me many life skills I never knew I needed, such as proper etiquette when speaking to children with special needs. Volunteering is just as motivating as a regular job because I know I am doing something beneficial to others, which brings many people joy. This past March, the 10th grade took a community service field trip to Horseability. Helping my peers understand what this community is about made my day. If anyone is interested in beginning to volunteer, I recommend Horseability. It offers a truly unique, welcoming, and rewarding atmosphere.