Healing Hoof Steps offers two distinct therapeutic programs using horse to help improve the lives of our community.  Our PATH Inter. Therapeutic Riding Program utilizes volunteers to assist in many aspects of our program, from helping in lessons to caring for our horses. It  is made up of Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructors who offer a mix of educational activities on horseback for those with physical, emotional and/or developmental disabilities or limitations.

Aside from our horses, volunteers truly are the backbone of our program - our work would not be possible without your time and dedication.

Benefits of volunteering:
Enjoy a positive and supportive environment
Learn new skills/gain experience working with people and horses
Resume building
References for school and work - Including Bright Future Scholarship Volunteer Hours!
Be part of a fun team and experience the reward of helping others!

Please consider joining Healing Hoof Step’s exceptional team of volunteers! Whether you can offer an hour a week or several hours every day, there is never a shortage of volunteer opportunities– even when lessons are not in progress. We welcome individuals aged 14 and older, work groups, families, and participants in community service programs. Experience with horses is not required!  Transportation must be onsite for volunteers that do not drive themselves.

Volunteers are involved with many areas of the work at Healing Hoof Steps and assist in a variety of ways:

  • Walking alongside riders during lessons
  • Assisting riders with grooming and tacking
  • Leading horses during lessons
  • Caring for horses
  • Assisting with fundraisers and community outreach events
  • Assisting with various administrative duties
  • Helping with grounds/site maintenance
  • Sharing their talents through photography, arts & crafts, and gardening


To become a therapeutic riding program volunteer, you must complete the 3-step process below and enjoy working with (or have a desire to learn to work with) participants with special needs(click each button to complete the steps):

  1. Complete and submit the volunteer application
  2. Complete the $19 background check with Sterling Volunteers
  3. Read Volunteer handbook and attend an on-site volunteer training 





If you have any additional questions, you may TEXT or CALL 850-736-4110 or email susan@healinghoofsteps.org

Note: Our clinical equine assisted mental health counseling program uses licensed counselors in non-riding activities in an immersive outdoor setting and a working herd of horses. As a HIPAA compliant facility, volunteers are prohibited from our mental health counseling sessions.

A 501(c)3 Organization. Text HOOFSTEPS to 850-757-2920 to make a DONATION today!

Located in Crestview, Florida

Healing Hoof Steps Equine Assisted Mental Health Counseling and Therapeutic Riding 

Healing Hoof Steps Volunteer Information