Q: What happens if there is bad weather?

At Trails of Purpose, we are committed to providing consistent and reliable services to our participants. Our therapeutic riding sessions are designed to proceed in various weather conditions to ensure that our riders receive the full benefits of our program. Here’s what you need to know:

Groups and Individual services will continue as scheduled regardless of typical weather conditions, including light rain or moderate cold.

Participants are encouraged to dress appropriately for the weather. Safety is our top priority. In the case of severe weather conditions, such as thunderstorms, extreme heat, heavy snow, or icy conditions, sessions may be adjusted or rescheduled for the safety of our riders and horses.

• Thunderstorms: If thunderstorms are forecasted, we will closely monitor the weather. Sessions will be paused or rescheduled if lightning is present.

• Extreme Heat: For the safety of our participants and horses, sessions may be shortened or rescheduled if temperatures exceed safe levels.

How will I be notified?

We will communicate any changes or cancellations due to extreme weather conditions as promptly as possible:

• Email/Text Alerts: Participants will receive an email or text notification regarding any changes to the schedule.

• Social Media: Follow our social media channels for real-time information.

when can I Reschedule?

Rescheduling: If a session is canceled due to extreme weather, we will work with participants to reschedule at a convenient time.

Q: How can i volunteer?

What is the Volunteer Training Program?

Our Volunteer Training Program is designed to equip volunteers with the necessary skills and knowledge to support our equine assisted psychotherapy programs and helping with our horse care team/chores. Training sessions are held once a month for individuals aged 18 and older. Children are welcome to shadow at a later time.

Who can volunteer?

Anyone aged 18 and older can sign up for our monthly volunteer training sessions. Children interested in volunteering can shadow an adult volunteer and participate in a modified training program at a later time.

How do I sign up for a training session?

You can sign up for a training session online by visiting our website and completing the volunteer registration form. Once registered, you will receive confirmation and further details via email.

How often are training sessions held?

Training sessions are held once a month. The specific date and time for each session will be listed on our website and in the registration confirmation email.

What can I expect during the training session?

The training session will cover:

• An overview of Trails of Purpose

• Volunteer roles and responsibilities

• Safety procedures and guidelines

• Tour of our facilities

How long is each training session?

Each training session typically lasts about an hour.

What should I wear to the training session?

Please wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Since some activities will take place outdoors and involve working with horses, it's important to dress safely and comfortably.

Do I need any prior experience with horses or therapeutic riding?

No prior experience is necessary. Our training program is designed to accommodate volunteers with all levels of experience, from beginners to those with extensive horse knowledge.

Are there any physical requirements for volunteering?

Volunteering in our program may require some physical activity, such as walking, standing, and lifting light equipment. If you have any physical limitations, please let us know in advance so we can make appropriate accommodations.

Can children volunteer?

Children cannot participate in the regular volunteer training sessions but can shadow an adult volunteer and participate in a modified training program at a later time.

How can my child participate in volunteering?

To enroll your child in the shadowing program, please contact us directly. We will provide specific details and arrange a suitable time for your child to begin shadowing. Children 5+ years and older are allowed to participate in volunteering for horse care/chores. They are not allowed to participate in groups due to HIPAA restrictions.

What happens after I complete the training session?

After completing the training session, you will be added to our volunteer roster and can sign up for volunteer shifts based on your availability. We will provide ongoing support and additional training opportunities as needed.

How do I stay informed about upcoming volunteer opportunities?

We will send out regular email updates with information about upcoming volunteer opportunities, events, and any additional training sessions. You can also check our website and follow us on social media for the latest news and updates.

How Does the Equine Therapy Work?

Do we ride the horses?

In short, no. Most of the therapeutic work done here does not involve riding the horses. We use a groundwork based approach. Groundwork refers to activities performed on the ground with horses. This includes tasks like grooming, leading, and bonding exercises. Groundwork helps build trust, improve communication, and develop a strong connection between the participant and the horse. We do offer some riding during individual sessions if the Equine Specialist sees fit.

What activities are involved in Equine Therapy sessions/groups?

Equine therapy sessions typically include activities such as:

• Grooming the horse

• Leading the horse through obstacle courses

• Observing and interpreting horse behavior

• Engaging in bonding exercises and trust-building activities

What should I wear to the sessions?

Please wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. 

Where Do I Park?

When you turn into the farm, there are signs for where to park, it is a gravel parking space.

Please adhere to the following parking rules:

• Speed Limit: Maintain a slow speed limit of 5 mph in the parking area to ensure safety.

• Please arrive between 5-10 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment/group time. If you arrive early, please wait in the parking lot in their cars until your clinician meets you at the front.

What are the hours of operation? Can I just drop by since you are on a farm?

Our hours of operation are Monday-Saturday 8am-8pm. We are BY APPOINTMENT ONLY AND DO NOT DO WALK INS. Our therapists are in sessions or groups throughout the day and will be unable to assist you. We will ask you to leave and email/call us for inquiries.  If you need to get ahold of us, please email: info@trailsofpurpose.com

Am I Eligible?

Do You Provide Services to Veteran Dependents?

Our organization primarily provides services to veterans and active duty. While we understand the importance of supporting veteran families, we currently only offer services to veteran dependents if the veteran is present.

Why is the veteran required to be present for dependents to receive services?

Our programs are designed to support and enhance the well-being of veterans directly. The presence of the veteran ensures that the therapeutic goals align with our mission and allows us to provide a cohesive and comprehensive approach to therapy that includes the entire family dynamic.

Who qualifies as a veteran dependent?

Veteran dependents include spouses, children, and other immediate family members of veterans.

Can dependents access any services independently?

At this time, dependents cannot access our services independently. All sessions and activities involving dependents must include the veteran.