Volunteers play an important role in the success of the programs offered at Ironstone Farm by assisting therapists and instructors during each riding session in a safe and structured environment. Without the assistance of volunteers, Ironstone Farm would have no programs to offer!

Who may volunteer?

We are interested in all who are willing to give us some of their time in exchange for a fun and rewarding experience. Minimum age to volunteer is twelve years old.

How do I become a volunteer?
Contact the office via phone or email us at emilykimball@challengeunlimited.org and schedule a time to join a volunteer workshop. Volunteer training is provided in a two session format held in the evenings twice each month. Please call to schedule – toll free at 877-NEAT-FUN! (877-632-8386). Prior to volunteering at Ironstone Farm, all potential candidates are required to attend a workshop, regardless of previous horse experience.

Do I need previous horse experience?

No experience is needed. In fact, many of the volunteers at Ironstone Farm have had no previous experience working with horses.

What will be my volunteer duties?

Volunteers assist the therapists and instructors by walking alongside or leading the horses, grooming and tacking, and offering support and guidance to the clients. Additional chores may be requested as needed. You will find that there is always something to do on the farm!

How flexible is the scheduling?

Our program is very accommodating. We require no minimum or maximum hours to be fulfilled weekly. We are sensitive to your busy life and time constraints, therefore, we welcome any hours that you can give to the farm.

When do you need volunteers?

We need volunteers Monday through Saturday at all times during the day and early evening.

Why volunteer?
Aside from being fun, volunteering provides the opportunity for rewarding personal experiences and a chance to develop lifelong friendships.

What additional opportunities will volunteering provide?

Volunteering at Ironstone Farm can lead to additional opportunities for any individual who is interested. Currently, the farm offers the following: a feeding program, working student program and apprentice instructor program. If you are interested in learning more about these programs, please contact the office between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

978 - 475 - 4056

Email emilykimball@challengeunlimited.org

Ironstone Farm

Ironstone Farm is a unique and beautiful working New England farm located in Andover, Massachusetts. Included on the property are outdoor riding areas, an indoor therapy arena, horse paddocks, ponds, and an abundance of wildlife. The farm is home to two types of riding programs, Challenge Unlimited and Ironstone Therapy.

Challenge Unlimited

Challenge Unlimited is a non-profit therapeutic riding program designed for people with disabilities. Massachusetts licensed horseback riding instructors use the horse and farm environment as a foundation for each session. The instructor's goal for all clients is to help them reach their greatest potential for independence.

Ironstone Therapy

Hippotherapy, or "treatment with the use of the horse," is a service offered at Ironstone Farm by licensed physical and occupational therapists. Therapists work in a team effort with equine professionals using horses as a therapeutic tool, in conjunction with traditional therapeutic modalities, to enable clients to effectively reach established goals.

Challenge Unlimited is a non-profit corporation maintaining a policy of non-discrimination regarding student admissions and staff employment.

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Challenge Unlimited at Ironstone Farm - 450 Lowell Street - Andover, MA 01810        978-475-4056         Fax 978-475-4046

E-mail: Info@ChallengeUnlimited.org

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