Program Support Volunteers | For Sidewalkers and Horse Handlers
If you are NOT volunteering as a sidewalker or horse handler in programming, you do not need to complete this section.
Go to “Volunteer Foundations” to return to the course home page.
Role Overview:
Sidewalkers support participants during mounted lessons and groundwork, helping ensure their safety, confidence, and engagement. They work closely with instructors/therapists to provide hands-on assistance and encouragement throughout each session.
Key Responsibilities:
Walk alongside participants during lessons and groundwork, providing support as directed
Give prompts or encouragement to participants as directed
Assist participants during emergency situations if needed
Why This Role Matters:
Sidewalkers help participants stay safe, supported, and engaged. They are an essential part of maintaining a calm, positive, and safe environment for everyone in the arena.
Sidewalker Timeline: Before, During, and After the Session
Before the Session
15 minutes prior — Gather Tack
Gather tack listed on Wranglr for your participant’s horse
Put stirrups on saddle, if applicable
Place tack in the cross-tie area
10 minutes prior — Arena Setup
Assist the instructor/therapist with arena setup
5 minutes prior — Participant Arrival & Readiness
Obtain the participant’s helmet (if they do not have their own)
Wait for mounting instructions from the instructor/therapist
Below is a video about common equipment you will find in this setting that you may be asked to help obtain:
During the Session — Rider Support
Support the participant as directed by the instructor/therapist
Remain attentive to the rider and responsive to any changing needs
Assist participant with unmounted activities (e.g. grooming, treats, etc.)
Below is a video outlining common support holds used during mounted sessions:
After the Session — Wrap-Up + Cleanup
Accompany the participant back to their family or caregiver
Assist with tack removal and arena cleanup
Common Feedback for Sidewalkers
Below are common reminders the instructor/therapist may address during sessions:
Do not lean on or pet horses while they are working
Reinforce the therapists/instructor’s directions without introducing new ideas or activities
Maintain physical support of the participant at all times, including while stopped at an activity
Do not retrieve dropped items if it compromises participant safety
Ensure safety stirrups are properly oriented at all times (safety feature on the outside of the participant’s foot)