VOLUNTEER WITH US!

We are thrilled you are
interested in volunteering.
Please review the following steps and requirements for becoming a volunteer:

  • An electronic application is available below, and paper applications are available on-site at our ranch.

  • We will try our best to schedule one orientation a month and advertise that, but we are also happy to schedule additional orientations as needed to accommodate individual schedules. Please just reach out to us to schedule something that works for you.

  • We will provide you with a release waiver and a copy of our rules. You will have the opportunity to read them and then sign. Signatures are required before a volunteer is permitted to begin any work.

  • All new volunteers begin with a probationary trial period, typically consisting of the first 4–6 shifts. During this time, volunteers are evaluated on reliability, safety awareness, ability to follow directions, respect for ranch policies, and overall fit with our horsemanship philosophy.

    The Rescue at Flathat Ranch reserves the right to limit, modify, or discontinue volunteer participation at any time if a volunteer’s behavior or actions are determined to negatively impact the safety of people or animals, the progress of rescue horses, ranch operations, or the overall environment of the organization.

    Completion of the trial period does not guarantee advancement to horse handling responsibilities or continued participation in the volunteer program.

VOLUNTEER APPLICATION

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • Most volunteers help with ranch chores and horse care support, including mucking, watering, cleaning, organizing, and general ranch upkeep.

  • No. Riding is not part of our volunteer program. Our focus is rehabilitation, trust-building, and creating a calm environment for rescue horses.

  • Yes — in appropriate ways. Volunteers may have opportunities to groom or quietly spend time with approved horses. However, volunteers are not permitted to catch or handle rescue horses unless specifically invited by ranch staff.

  • All of our horses are in active rehabilitation and training programs with Joel. Consistent handling techniques are critical to their progress, and incorrect interactions can set back their training and emotional recovery.

  • No prior horse experience is required. We value calm, teachable, dependable volunteers who are willing to learn and help.

    • Volunteers ages 16+ may volunteer independently with signed waivers.

    • Volunteers under 16 must be accompanied by a parent or approved guardian.

    • For safety reasons, very young children may not be permitted in active work areas.

  • Volunteer hours are generally available between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM by scheduled appointment only.

  • No. All volunteering must be scheduled in advance. This helps us maintain a calm environment for the horses and properly supervise activities. This is also our home and we appreciate knowing when to expect visitors.

  • Possibly. Volunteers who consistently demonstrate reliability, safety awareness, emotional maturity, and alignment with our horsemanship philosophy may be invited to assist with additional responsibilities over time. Advancement is never guaranteed and is entirely at staff discretion.

  • Bring gloves! Closed-toe boots or sturdy shoes are required. Expect dirt, mud, hay, dust, and changing weather conditions. We recommend clothes you can comfortably work in and don’t mind getting dirty, and extra layers if the temperatures drop.

  • We work hard to maintain a respectful, peaceful, and drama-free environment focused on the well-being of the horses. Kindness, teamwork, safety, and professionalism are expected from everyone on the property.

  • At Flathat Ranch, the horses come first. Every policy and interaction is designed to support their physical and emotional well-being.

    • We have an outhouse on-site that volunteers can use if they need to go to the restroom.

    • Please bring your own water bottle & snacks if needed. The water from all of the spigots is the same as what we drink in our home, so you can fill water bottles from any water spout.