Volunteer
Volunteers are the back bone of our organization. Their hard work and dedication are what make our mission possible!
Interested in volunteering?
There is always plenty to do at Rainbow Meadows - both on and off site!! Our most critical need is the twice a day feeding and care of our horses (morning and evening), 365 days a year. But there are always other needs. Other tasks include:
- Grooming and handling of our horses, donkeys and mules
- Assisting with construction, repair or other projects at the facilities
- Speaking to local organizations and schools about Rainbow Meadows and its mission
- Participating in annual fundraising events
- Hands on opportunities to learn how to train the horses
- Many others
To apply to be a Rainbow Meadows volunteer, please complete and submit the volunteer application through the link below:
Please note: You will be asked to create an account in order to submit your volunteer application. This should only take a few minutes and your personal information will be protected.
~Minimum age requirement to volunteer is 14 years old. Between the ages of 14-16, the minor must have a parent or guardian, also signed up as a volunteer, to accompany and supervise them.
Questions?
Current volunteer needs
We are always in need of volunteers! Here are some specific volunteer roles we would like to fill:
ON-SITE OPERATIONS ASSISTANCE
Purpose: To help with daily routine facility and horse care activities
Skill set: Basic horse handling skills, good organization, ability to work in a team
Monthly time commitment: Variable based on volunteer's availability; ideally at least 4 days per month or more
TRAINERS/HANDLERS
Purpose: To provide rescue horses with ground work and/or in-saddle time, allowing us to assess them for training level and improve adoptability.
Skill set: Intermediate horse handling/riding skills (upper beginner welcomed if open to instruction)
Monthly time commitment: 1-2 days (3-4 hours per day), on-site, to be scheduled with executive director
BEBEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING
Volunteering at a horse rescue offers meaningful, hands-on opportunities to learn, grow, and make a real difference. Benefits include:
Learn to Interact with Horses, Mules, and Donkeys
Volunteers gain practical experience working with equines of all types and personalities. You’ll learn how to approach, communicate with, and handle them safely and respectfully.
Increase Your Horse Knowledge and Education
Whether you're a beginner or experienced, you’ll develop a deeper understanding of equine behavior, care, nutrition, grooming, and overall welfare through hands-on practice and guidance from experienced handlers.
Build Strong Horse Safety Skills
Safety is foundational in any equine environment. Volunteers learn essential safety practices—such as proper leading, spatial awareness, reading body language, and responding to emergencies—ensuring confidence and competence around large animals.
Participate in “Plan for Progress” Horsemanship Training
We offer structured training programs like Plan for Progress, where volunteers can improve horsemanship skills at a pace that matches their comfort level. This may include groundwork, handling, and building trust-based relationships with horses.
Support and Engage in Community Events
Volunteers often help represent the rescue at community events, fundraisers, open houses, and educational programs. This is a great way to connect with others who love animals while advocating for equine welfare.
Make an Impact
Your time directly contributes to the rehabilitation, socialization, and overall well-being of horses in need. You play a vital role in helping rescued horses recover and transition into safe, loving homes.
