The horse industry has many opportunities for volunteers -they run our horse shows, muck stalls, provide horse care, clear trails, provide therapeutic support for handicapped riding stables, give riding instruction, and perform a multitude of other organizational activities.

Where are volunteers found?

• Using your experience and imagination, list the sources of volunteers that have already participated in the past on committees and projects.
  
  
• Have a volunteer information sheet for new volunteers to fill out. Once this information is in hand, a good volunteer opportunity can be matched to the individual.
  
  
• Your organization should create job descriptions for volunteer opportunities, as well as estimated time required for these. This makes volunteering easier for everyone. Think about if you’re asked to participate in something. If you can get answers to your questions, you’re more likely to say yes. If the people involved aren’t sure of answers, you may get cold feet.

Volunteer training starts with orientation.

• The history of your organization and structure, services provided, calendar of events, projects, and list of officers and staff should be included.
  
  
• Provide a list of tools and resources available to the volunteer.
  
  
• Make guidance and support available.
  
  
• Pair new volunteers with experienced volunteers.

Plan for volunteer recognition/reward. Thank your volunteers every opportunity you get.

• Mention them in your press releases and newsletter.
  
  
• Have a volunteer recognition celebration.
  
  
• Give out awards.
  
  
• Build an incentive system from number of hours served.

This segment is an excerpt from Blue Ribbon Business Business Management and Leadership Topics for the Horse Industry, published quarterly by Blue Ribbon Consulting, LDO, LLC, PO Box 435, New Ipswich, NH 03071, Lisa@horseconsulting.com. Subscription available online only - rate is free; individual issues available for $3 each; years 1-7 compiled for $27.95 plus $5 s/h. Copyright 2004 Blue Ribbon Consulting. Please contact Blue Ribbon Consulting regarding reprint permission.