Volunteer Stories
Hannah - Coach
Tell us what you love most about volunteering
It is so rewarding to see not only the joy the children get from their riding lessons but also the amazing progress they make week after week!
What surprised you most about volunteering for HBL RDA
The “can do” attitude of all our riders and the excellent standard of riding!
Would you recommend volunteering for HBL RDA? And why?
It’s extremely rewarding and there is a role for everyone even if you do not have previous experience of working with horses or children with disabilities.
What are you most excited about for 2022?
Coaching the riders in our new purpose built indoor school which will give them the environment they need to progress even further!
Rebeccca - Trustee & Team Leader
Tell us what you love most about volunteering
I love seeing our young riders build a bond with the ponies, and the excitement they express when they accomplish something new.
What surprised you most about volunteering for HBL RDA
Just how much I enjoy getting involved in different aspects of the groups activities, from organising weekly rides to supporting fundraising events.
Would you recommend volunteering for HBL RDA? And why?
I would absolutely recommend volunteering with HBL RDA, it’s so rewarding! Volunteering is a fantastic way of meeting new people and learning new skills too.
What are you most excited about for 2022?
The completion of our amazing new riding facility, opening up and welcoming our riders back.
Sheri - Chairman & Coach
Tell us what you love most about volunteering
I am always so happy and positive after a riding session with the kids. The riders have a great time, the ponies are amazing and it’s just a positive experience.
What surprised you most about volunteering for HBL RDA
The positive impact the horses and ponies have on the riders.
Would you recommend volunteering for HBL RDA? And why?
Yes! It’s very rewarding, great exercise and really fun!
What are you most excited about for 2022?
HB&L RDA has a new facility and we get to start riding sessions again! It’s going to be amazing.
Jo - Side Walker & Fundraiser
Tell us what you love most about volunteering
Being around horses is a passion of mine and so being able to spend time with them, and see the impact they have is very rewarding.
What surprised you most about volunteering for HBL RDA
How gentle and nurturing our ponies are, they really are special and look after each of our riders.
Would you recommend volunteering for HBL RDA? And why?
It's brilliant and fits in with my other commitments
What are you most excited about for 2022?
Our new indoor school so on those rainy days, we all stay dry and still have fun!
Kerry - Fundraiser & Trustee
Tell us what you love most about volunteering
I often support at events with our fundraising pony barney. Seeing families and kids having access to stroke & cuddle barney is amazing.
What surprised you most about volunteering for HBL RDA
At fundraising events such as Horsley Village Farmers Market you hear from so many people who have directly or indirectly been helped by RDA.
Would you recommend volunteering for HBL RDA? And why?
Absolutely, I couldn't commit to regular sessions so help ad hoc at fundraising events which are great fun!
What are you most excited about for 2022?
Being able to invite so many more children to join us - the waitlist is so long!