In the Horsemanship Program at Warm Beach Camp in Stanwood, WA, the volunteers assist in nearly every aspect of the program, from administrative tasks that uphold professionalism to serving in facility care. Volunteers help ensure the safety of our horses through well-maintained arena footing, repairing structures, and cleaning tack, allowing Warm Beach to continue being a good steward of all that has been entrusted to us.

A weekly volunteer stated, “Through Horsemanship, I am learning how to care for horses and the facility well. I help with chores, grooming, and bodywork for the horses. I had the opportunity to ride in a lesson for the first time in twenty years! Being around horses is so therapeutic, and I am grateful each day for the opportunity to be part of such a special place.”

The routine and continual care that our volunteers show to the 35+ horses fills our staff with gratitude and reminds us of what a true gift it is to be surrounded by our equine partners. Volunteers also support the Horsemanship staff as lesson assistants, lesson helpers, horse leaders, and side walkers. They show compassion and love by partnering with students who may be new and anxious.

A volunteer who participates in one of our more unique lessons had this to say: ” For this great-grandfather, the highlight of my time with the Warm Beach Camp stables has been as a horse leader or side walker for the Tiny Tots classes and contributing to the joy of these young riders in the making.”

Volunteers give others hope and encouragement, and their service provides opportunities for the Holy Spirit to work through the hearts of those around them. Their generous gifts of time and energy relieve our staff, enabling them to focus on other priorities that ensure we stay focused on our values of service and honor to Christ.

“The fact that it’s a Christian community of believers is the icing on the cake. It rounds out the experience in a spiritual and familial way. Thank you so much for this opportunity to serve and also to reap the benefits of your camp!” exclaimed a volunteer.

Ministry work is not easy, and we cannot thank our volunteers enough for abounding in the work of the Lord and allowing ministry and discipleship of the next generation of horsemen and horsewomen to happen!

The mission of the Warm Beach Camp Horsemanship Program is to provide transformational experiences of God’s love and truth through horses, riding, and horse-related activities. Our volunteers are key in helping us fulfill this mission. As the Horsemanship Volunteer Coordinator, I am blessed to see the impact the Volunteer Program has on our horses, staff, program participants, and volunteers.

Are you interested in Volunteering for Warm Beach Horsemanship?  Click Here. 

– Heather Goetsch
Horsemanship Volunteer Coordinator