Our Volunteers
At CJ Kids Inc., our volunteers are the heart and soul of our operation. This incredible group of highly engaged and dedicated individuals ensures that every session runs smoothly and safely. From setting up and packing up equipment to leading horses, side-walking with riders, and assisting with activities, our volunteers play a critical role in supporting both our riders and therapy horses. Their commitment extends beyond the arena, as they also help with horse care, ensuring our equine partners remain healthy and happy. Thanks to their passion and generosity, we’re able to deliver life-changing therapy to our riders, fostering growth, confidence, and joy every step of the way.
We asked some of our returning volunteers: What keeps you coming back to hippotherapy?
“With a herd of patient and gentle horses behind them, and incredibly dedicated physical therapists by their side, I witness these young New Yorkers lives changed every session! It’s incredible to see everyone grow and learn, and being involved in any capacity is deeply fulfilling.”
“Watching the difference in mood, gait, and emotion in these children after their lessons is endlessly rewarding. It has been a gift to share the joy and freedom I always felt horseback riding with these children. ”
“It’s really wonderful that Dianne is providing kids access to these resources. Working with horses is wonderful, just being around horses is wonderful. I think it has such an incredible impact on the kids. It helps them in ways other forms of therapy might come near to, but I don’t think would be able to meet the same goals.”