Then consider joining the Bakas Equestrian Center Horses for Handicapped volunteer team. You will become one of many who make up the backbone of our Program.  Volunteer Time may be spent in a variety of ways.  Please continue reading for more information on our Fantastic Volunteer Opportunities.

Volunteer Hours & Minimum Requirements

Volunteer Schedules may vary due to Seasonal Considerations & Special Events so please check the website Calendar for the most current volunteer hours available.  

Volunteer Hours typically run as follows:

• Tuesdays – Thursdays (900am – 1200pm)
• Tuesdays – Thursdays (200pm – 500pm)
• Saturdays (800am – 1200pm)

Schedules for Sundays, Mondays and Fridays are scheduled by Appointment Only.

Volunteers must be at least 12 years old to assist at Bakas.  Volunteers under 12 may only assist if accompanied by an adult and WILL NOT be allowed to Lead Horses or Sidewalk with riders.

Volunteers should dress appropriately wearing shorts or jeans & t-shirts or polo shirts.  Please no cropped shirts or short-shorts.  Absolutely no sandals or flip flops may be worn by volunteers. 

• assisting riders during classes as horse handlers or sidewalkers
• assisting with chores around the barn
• repairing equipment
• fundraising

Following the progress of the riders is an extremely rewarding experience enjoyed by all of our volunteers.  The time commitment is up to you.  Come try us out.... We hope you will want to come back.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum age requirement for volunteers? 
Volunteers must be at least 12 years old to assist at Bakas.  Volunteers under 12 may only assist if accompanied by an adult and WILL NOT be allowed to Lead Horses or Sidewalk with riders.

 Will I be able to Ride the Horses?
Bakas does not promise any volunteer the chance to ride.  The Bakas riding program is intended for individuals who have a physical or mental impairment & have a current medical form signed by a doctor.  Riding opportunities for challenged riders is limited as compared to able-bodied facilities available for those without impairments.  In addition, the horses of Bakas work numerous hours each week providing recreational therapy to our riders.  We ask if your interest is in riding that you seek alternate facilities which will provide you the opportunity.

Do I need to sign up to Volunteer?
Volunteers should contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Gina, to schedule individual volunteer hours or group volunteer sessions at 813-264-3890.

What training do I need to attend?
We ask that all volunteers plan on allotting 30 minutes extra the first time volunteering at our facility to watch a short video orientation about our program.  After that, Bakas staff provides hands-on training to all new volunteers whether you are planning on volunteering one time or making a longer commitment.  However, volunteers who plan on committing to more frequent hours will become acquainted with our daily routines & schedules & will be given more opportunities.

Will I be able to work with the Horses even if my experience is limited?
The staff enjoys teaching volunteers about the joy of working with our equine companions & we will teach as much as we are able & as much as you are willing to learn.  Again, the more commitment you give to our program, the more involved we will let you become in all of the aspects of working in our program.

***Volunteers who have a background with horses & have been evaluated/ trained by staff members may assist with Horse Handling during classes.***

 What kind of work can I expect?
Volunteers help with a wide range of duties at Bakas – so you should be prepared for anything.  Primarily, when classes are in session, volunteers assist staff with grooming & tacking horses, setting up & breaking down arena, assisting staff with activities & games during classes, side-walking with riders for support or assistance and un-tacking & cooling horses for turn-out.  In between classes, volunteers assist staff with barn chores such as cleaning water troughs, stalls & paddocks, cleaning tack, cleaning barn offices & more—there is always lots to clean at a barn!!  There are also many special events throughout the year that are a lot of fun & require a lot of man/woman power to run!

When can I start?
Call Bakas today to set up your volunteer hours!!!!!!

Other Areas of Interest for Volunteers
Bakas volunteers are primarily utilized to assist staff with arena set up & break down, assist horse leaders with grooming & tacking, side walking with riders during classes & helping with class activities & games.  Volunteers may not ride horses.  Horse handling is allowed under staff supervision & only after instructors have evaluated the prospective volunteer’s horse knowledge & skills.

A Bakas Volunteer goes above & beyond & is a well rounded individual.  Bakas Volunteers use their own talents & are willing to pitch in with numerous opportunities to help as seen here……  

Side Walkers                      Assistants for Classes                        Volunteer Recruitment
Cleaning Stalls                    Cleaning Tack                                    Cleaning Barn Rooms
Grooming Horses                Washing Horses                                 Feeding Horses
Landscaping                       Painting                                             Administrative Help
Photography                       Newsletter Assistance                        Special Events
Fund raising                        Soliciting for Donations/ Horse Sponsorships
Traveling to Horse Shows     Soliciting for Raffle Item Donations

Following the progress of the riders is an extremely rewarding experience enjoyed by all of our volunteers.  The time commitment is up to each individual's preference or needs.  If what you have seen here sparks your interest, please come try us out.......We hope you will want to come back again and again!  

Please contact Gina Edwards or Beth Harre-Orr to schedule your volunteer experience at 813-264-3890.