“At TROtt, I came to give my time but I received lessons in courage, resilience, and a quiet power of connection.”
-Sue D, TROtt volunteer.
How to Get Started
Step 1. Contact Volunteer coordinator
Step 2. Fill out forms:
- Volunteer Intake Form. Please complete before the training.
- Reference and Waiver Form. This form needs one reference.
- Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC). There is no charge for police check for volunteer positions. Volunteers under the age of 18 do not need a Vulnerable Sector Check. (See “How to get a Police Record Check).
Step 3. Attend a volunteer orientation
Step 4. Select Volunteer positions
How to get a Police Record Check
(1) Download letter of request and fill out: Letter of Request
(2) Apply Online: Online Application
(3) Once received, please send a copy of receipt or confirmation email from Ottawa Police as proof of form submission to volcoord@ottawatherapeuticriding.ca
Apply in person:
(1) Print, fill out, and bring the letter of request: Letter of Request
(2) Go to in person location at 2670 Queensview Drive (long wait times reported)
(3) Bring or email forward the original VSC to volunteer coordinator at TROtt (volcoord@ottawatherapeuticriding.ca). Do not print out the PDF as it is no longer a legal document once it is printed.
For those living outside Ottawa the link for how to apply for a Police Vulnerable Sector Check with the OPP is found at this link. OPP VSC
Volunteering at TROtt
You are at the heart of our Therapeutic Riding Team. Because of your time, care, and dedication—whether preparing horses, leading, or side walking—you help transform lives and expand possibilities for people with disabilities. And in giving, you gain too: stronger connections, new skills, and the reward of making a meaningful difference.
We ask:
- Volunteers to be at least 14 years old.
- Volunteers to commit two-hour shifts once a week.
- Volunteers to be responsible for their own transportation.
- Police record check (for individuals for 18+)
- Required forms (see requirements below)
The role is active and hands-on, helping prepare horses and walking or jogging alongside riders. A moderate level of fitness is required, including short jogs beside a trotting horse.
What are the Volunteer Positions?
Side Walking
Side Walkers are responsible for the safety and engagement of the riders.
– Walks beside rider, always within arm’s reach of the rider.
– There for rider safety
– Assist in keeping a balanced and secure position for the rider
– Hands-on support and/or verbal support and encouragement
– Assist rider with instructions and playing games
Administration and Office Support
“There are always new and existing projects going on a TROtt both in programming and behind the scenes. Do you have a skill you would like to share with our office team? We would appreciate help in general office administration and are happy to hear of any ways you would like to contribute to our team!
Horse Handling
Horse Handlers are responsible for the horse’s tack, behaviour during class, and movement throughout the class.
– Leads horses staying beside there neck as they navigate around the arena
– Responsible for the tacking and
grooming of the horse
– Assist in keeping the horse still during mounting
and dismounting
– Communicates with side walkers to make sure
everyone knows when and where to walk
Barn Chores
Help keep our beautiful facility clean and safe for our horses, riders and volunteers. This position will include helping mucking paddocks and stalls, sweeping and miscellaneous cleaning throughout the barn, paddocks and arenas.
Fundraising
TROtt relies on the generous donations and sponsorships from our community to continue to offer our programming. We are always looking for volunteers to help our fundraising team with grant applications, fundraising initiatives, events and communications. Please reach out to learn more about our fundraising team and goals!
Summer Volunteer
Summer is our busiest time of year! Help us ensure all programming runs smoothly by volunteering in our summer camps, with riding lessons, and special events or programming.
Watch this video for more details on TROtt!
Volunteer Resources and Frequently Asked Questions
Dress Code
Wear closed-toe and closed-heel shoes
Long hair should be tied back and do not wear dangling jewelry or necklaces.
-Fasten jackets or other loose clothing.
– Long, non-swishing pants must be worn.
– No shorts or tank tops
– Wear gloves to keep warm in the cold months.
– Side walkers, hands out of pockets at all times, please!
– Please do not wear fanny packs
-Please DO NOT bring phone into the arena. If you must bring your phone to class – please turn off notifications (including amber alert) and ringer.
-Gum chewing or hard candy, can be a choking hazard.
Emergency Protocols
– Fire
Horses → Centre line
Riders who can walk → dismount and walk to sand ring
Riders unable to walk → dismount in sand ring
📞 Calling Emergency Services
Report back to instructor
Photos
