Volunteer Expectations

Community Association for Riders with Disabilities is an established registered non-profit organization. We rely on our dedicated and passionate volunteers to maintain our organization, and we are always looking for more team members whose values align with ours. If you’re passionate about working with individuals with different abilities, and making a difference in lives, we would love to have you as a part of CARD’s team.

Values

Respect- Our organization respects all individuals and we expect our volunteers to extend the same type of respect when performing their duties and tasks.

Responsibility– CARD relies on the commitment of volunteers. It is important that our volunteers are reliable, consistent and execute their duties responsibly.

Confidentiality- At CARD, we respect confidentiality and understand that we deal with sensitive information. We expect our volunteers to keep this information confidential at all times.

Compassion and Caring– At CARD we believe in creating a culture of safety, understanding and ethical treatment of all humans and horses engaged in therapeutic riding. We expect our volunteers to be dedicated to supporting this environment.

Passionate– We believe in promoting quality in all undertakings. At CARD we are passionate about giving our riders the best experience they can possibly get in order to promote an awareness of body, mind and spirit.

Accountable- Everyone at CARD is expected to be accountable for their words and actions.

Professionalism- Being a part of CARD’s team means we expect our volunteers to demonstrate professionalism in all activities they participate in. It is important to us that we enhance the value and credibility of our organization and maintain our reputation.

Access & Inclusion- At CARD we promote diversity and opportunity in equine-assisted activities and therapies.

Expectations From CARD to our Volunteers

Support- As an organization, we believe that it is important to support our volunteers in every way possible. We will provide guidance and support along the way to the best of our abilities. We will have regular reviews or evaluations to ensure that both volunteers and staff are satisfied.

Orientation & Training- We understand that many of our volunteers have not had previous experience and training in this field. Thus, we provide all volunteers with an Information and Hands-On Training session to ensure that our volunteers feel confident and comfortable in their roles.

Safety- At CARD we have safety procedures that are always in place in order to ensure the security of riders, volunteers, and horses.

Expectations from our Volunteers to CARD

Be responsible– Carry out the specified job description accordingly and responsibly. In addition, be reliable. Always let CARD know as early as possible if you are unable to make a scheduled shift.

Be courteous- Be courteous to riders, staff and other volunteers

Follow CARD’s Program rules and procedures- We expect all volunteers to follow the rules and procedures as was outlined during both training sessions.

Communicate- Communicate any issues or concerns, which are likely to affect your volunteer duties to the Director of Volunteer Services.

Your rights as a Volunteer

As a volunteer, you have the right:

  • To work in a healthy and safe environment
  • To be treated fairly with equal opportunity
  • To ask questions, regarding CARD and receive answers in a timely fashion
  • To receive all pertinent information as it relates to your role, here at CARD
  • To have a job description and agreed hours of contribution
  • To be provided with training tailored to your specific role
  • To receive guidance and direction
  • To be heard and recognized
  • To have your personal information kept in confidence