Volunteer

Horse Powered Leadership

Information

Horse Powered Leadership is our volunteer program for girls ages 14-17. By participating in the program, you can give back to your community as a volunteer and grow as a leader and equestrian.

You will be exposed to the wide variety of programs we offer at the Equestrian Center, learn about horsemanship and horse care from our knowledgeable staff, participate in leadership activities, and train to become a volunteer for our summer Horse Adventures Camp.

Horse Powered Leadership is not a riding lesson program, but some riding opportunities may be available to volunteers throughout the summer.

The program will meet every Tuesday, starting in February, from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Requirements

• Girls must be at least 14 years old by the program's start in February and have not graduated high school yet.
• Previous horse experience is not required. 
• Willingness to learn new things with a good attitude is a must.
• Volunteers are required to help with our summer camps for children ages 5-12.
• Volunteer assignments are subject to attendance in the program.
• Volunteers must be able to commit to the schedule listed below. 

Registration: Registration for 2025 has now closed. Girls selected to participate in the program will receive a confirmation email in mid-January.

Training Schedule

January 21 - New Volunteer Orientation
Tuesday 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.
REQUIRED for NEW volunteers

February 4, 11, 18, 25 – New Volunteer Training
Tuesdays 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.
ALL DATES REQUIRED for NEW volunteers

March, April, May – Weekly Training for new and returning volunteers
Tuesdays 4:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.
You can also volunteer at Spring Break Camp March 17, 18, 19 & 21 from 12:00 p.m.-3:00 p.m. to gain more experience!

Summer Camp Schedule

Junior Horse Adventures Camp (campers age 5-7)
June 9-12 - Monday-Thursday 8:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
ALL four days REQUIRED for ALL volunteers

Horse Adventures Camp (campers age 8-12)
June 23-26, July 7-10, July 14-17, July 21-24, July 28-31, August 4-7
Monday-Thursday 8:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
You must volunteer for 12 days of camp between June 23 through August 7. You choose which dates work best for your schedule. There is no camp the week of July 4.

Optional Summer/Fall Volunteering: Throughout the summer and fall, there may be other miscellaneous opportunities to volunteer for the Equestrian Center.

Adult Volunteers at the Equestrian Center

Information

Do you love the barn scene and horses but don't know where to soak it all in? Volunteering at Jester Park Equestrian Center is the perfect place for you. Depending on your experience and availability, volunteer duties could include but are not limited to general barn upkeep and maintenance, assisting with programs, and even helping with events! We are not looking for volunteer help with feeding, grooming, or horse conditioning at this time.

Volunteers must be 18+ to participate in most volunteer opportunities at the Equestrian Center. Check out our Horse Powered Leadership program, listed above, for information about our volunteer and leadership program for girls ages 14-17.

Volunteer opportunities are based on program and barn needs. The time of year and programs happening will determine when opportunities arise.

All volunteers must complete an orientation and training session before signing up for any volunteer shifts at the Equestrian Center. Many opportunities will require additional training before volunteering.

Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.

Interested in Volunteering?

Jester Park Equestrian Center strives to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals to participate. If you anticipate needing a modification due to a disability or have questions about accessibility, please contact us at 515-999-2818 or jpec_info@polkcountyiowa.gov.