Make a difference today!
Volunteers are the backbone of NCEFT’s programs. Quite simply, NCEFT would not be able to deliver our programs without the dedicated volunteers who generously give their time to us. Each year, volunteers donate thousands of hours of service. Every moment volunteers spend with us is valued, appreciated, and meaningful. We welcome individuals, organizations, and corporate teams!
Volunteer opportunities are available Monday-Friday from 10am-5pm. Please note that because our horses are service animals, volunteers generally do not interact with them independently. A background check is required and paid for by NCEFT for volunteers 18+.
NCEFT’s volunteer program was featured in the San Mateo Horseman. See page 16 to read about the experiences of one of our volunteers and learn how volunteering at NCEFT can enrich your community and your own life.
Update as of February 2022: Thank you for your patience as we adjust our procedures and policies to limit potential exposure to COVID-19 for our staff, volunteers, and clients. Please note that to volunteer at NCEFT, the COVID-19 vaccine and booster is required as you will be in direct contact with our clients.
Volunteer opportunities include:
Side-Walking
Walk beside the horse for an entire session (30 minutes). Primary job is to maintain the safety of the client at all times. Side-walkers are integral members of our treatment teams. Experience with horses or people with disabilities is not necessary — just enthusiasm, strong backs, and the stamina to keep up with our clients and horses!
Qualifications for Side-Walking:
- Volunteers must be 16+ years of age. Documentation is available for school credit or work.
- Ability to walk continuously for 60 minutes and jog for short distances on uneven ground.
- Bend, twist, and raise arms to shoulder height.
- Assist a child or adult from horseback to the ground.
- Make a regular commitment to NCEFT (1-2 hours per week).
- Volunteer training/orientation required.
Facilities / Grounds Keeping
We always need assistance keeping our 12-acre facility looking beautiful and welcoming! By maintaining a beautiful, clean, and pleasing facility, we provide a feeling of respite and retreat for our clients as well as their families and caregivers. The simple act of sweeping the walkways and barn corridors is truly an act of kindness for our clients as well as safety for our staff and horses. This opportunity is ideal for those who enjoy being outdoors and around people and animals.
Special Events & Office Help
Throughout the year, we need help with special events, such as our annual Gala, Family Holiday Party, and Spring Fling Riding Showcase. We welcome volunteers to help wrap presents, help with set up and tear down, crafts, photography, and more!
If you are tech-savvy, we could use your help in the office with graphic design, PowerPoint presentations, film-making, and more! Also, marketing, grant writing, event planning, and fundraising. Please fill out the Volunteer Application and let us know about your special skills!
Questions? Please email volunteers@nceft.org or call 650-851-2271 ext. 129
