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EQUUS Foundation Calls on Youth Nationwide to Volunteer with Equine Charities This Summer
Empowering the Next Generation to Make a Difference for Horses and People
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This summer, EQUUS Foundation is calling on young people across the country to turn their passion for horses into meaningful action by volunteering with equine charities serving horses and communities in need.
Young people and their families are encouraged to visit the EQUUS Foundation Equine Welfare Network (EWN) to discover participating organizations that provide Equine-Assisted Services and/or Equine Transition Services. These organizations depend on volunteers to help horses thrive and to expand life-changing programs for people of all ages and abilities. Volunteering can be onsite or virtual!!
Equine-Assisted Services include programs such as adaptive riding, therapeutic riding, mental health support, learning, and personal development services involving horses. Equine Transition Services focus on horses in need of safe transitions, including rescue, rehabilitation, retraining, rehoming, and retirement.
"The future of horse welfare depends on inspiring the next generation to get involved," said Dr. Karin Bump, EQUUS Foundation Chief Operating Officer. "Volunteering is one of the most powerful ways young people can make a direct impact—for horses, for people, and for their own personal growth.
Whether in the barn or behind the scenes, every contribution matters. Opportunities vary based on organizational needs and volunteer skills, with youth placements thoughtfully guided by age-appropriate roles and labor considerations. Volunteer opportunities can take many forms, including:
• Hands-on horse care and barn support
• Assisting with riding lessons and programs
• Helping with events and fundraising
• Photography and storytelling
• Social media and digital outreach
• Administrative support
• Remote projects that can be done from home
By using the EWN, youth and their families can feel confident they are connecting with organizations recognized by the IRS as 501(c)(3) public charities dedicated to the welfare and wellbeing of horses. Charities that have earned the EQUUS Foundation Guardian designation have demonstrated a commitment to transparency and responsible operations, while those achieving the EQUUS Foundation Mentor Accreditation represent the highest standards of equine welfare, wellbeing, and organizational excellence.
"We also welcome you to learn more about the impact of horses on our lives with our free online learning experience - The Horse: Commodity or Partner?," continued Bump. "This module will provide you with a deeper understanding of the positive impact of the horse-human bond in the past and present – and helps cultivate an appreciation for ways to help protect America's horses now and in the future."
The importance of volunteers was highlighted in the EQUUS Foundation’s inaugural report on "Best Practices" (equusfoundation.org/research/study.php), which underscored that volunteers are essential to the success and sustainability of equine charities nationwide. Many organizations rely on volunteer support to care for horses, assist participants, maintain facilities, raise awareness, and strengthen operations.
For students seeking service hours, career exploration, leadership development, or simply a purposeful way to spend the summer, volunteering with an equine charity offers a powerful opportunity to build compassion, responsibility, teamwork, and advocacy skills.
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This summer, be the difference!
Take the first step toward making a lasting impact - for horses, for people, and for your future.
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ABOUT EQUUS FOUNDATION: The EQUUS Foundation, a 501(c)(3) public charity established in 2002, is the only national animal welfare charity and accrediting body in the United States that is 100% dedicated to equine welfare with the dual mission to protect America's horses from peril and strengthen the bond between people and horses. Donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law. Contact the EQUUS Foundation, Inc., at 168 Long Lots Road, Westport, CT 06880, Tele: (203) 259-1550, E-Mail: mail@equusfoundation.org. Visit: equusfoundation.org.
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