Therapeutic Horse Riding Volunteers/Interns

  Venezuela

Santa Elena de Uiaren

Term: Throughout the year 
Durations of Program: 1-2 weeks, 2-4 weeks, 5-8 weeks, 9-12 weeks, 3-6 months, 7-12 months and 1-2 years
Typical Duration of Program: 2-4 weeks
Dates: Throughout the year

Description: Horse riding is proven to be an invaluable therapy for children with special needs allowing them to improve their balance and co-ordination and develop muscle tone. In addition, it helps boost their confidence, gives them the opportunity to form a bond with the horses, and most importantly, allows them to enjoy themselves. If you enjoy working with children and horses and enjoy being outdoors, this is a project that you would find very rewarding.

This horse therapy area is just one part of the multi-faceted Therapy and Training Center which Peace Villages is currently developing on its grounds. This Center will offer various types of therapies, skills training, and fun activities to children with special needs and to local disadvantaged or at risk children and youth.

Highlights: Activities can include:
* Daily maintenance and care of horses
* Assisting with therapeutic riding classes
* Maintenance of the paddock, arena and field shelter
* Assisting with horse care and management classes for children
* Maintenance of the saddlery and equipment
* Maintaining photographic and written records of the children's progress on a weekly basis
* Helping with the collection of grasses to feed the horses
* Opportunity to ride on weekends (lessons can be provided if inexperienced)
* Train horses   

Qualifications: Requirements:
Anyone with an interest in working with horses and children can apply. No experience is necessary as training will be given by our staff horse therapist. Enthusiasm and a willingness to learn is a must!

Availability:
The facility runs throughout the year, though please note that there can be a reduced program during school holidays.

Cost in US$: varies

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: A typical horse therapist volunteer/intern is interested in animals and this special opportunity to use them to help children.

Age Range: 18-100

This Program is open to World Wide Participants. This Program is also open to Families, Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Venezuela Independently

Typically Participants Work Independently Or in Groups of 2-5

Application Process Involves:

• Resume
• Written Application

Post Services Include:

• Alumni Network
• Exit DebriefingAbroad

Peace Villages Foundation's Mission Statement: The Peace Villages Foundation is a sustainable, transparent, grassroots NGO, entirely funded and operated by long and short-term volunteers. We share the values of peace, justice and tolerance, fundamentally focusing on global cooperation, the preservation of indigenous cultures and the empowerment of young people while valuing local knowledge and working with cultural sensitivity. We provide additional opportunities in humanitarian, educational, recreational and environmental fields and assist our beneficiaries to develop their potential and improve their own lives. We promote a Culture of Peace through enriching cross-cultural exchange between people of all ages, races and nationalities through voluntary community service and intercultural education, while valuing local knowledge and working with cultural sensitivity.

Year Founded: 2000