At Connected Horse, we believe that healing happens through connection—connection with animals, with nature, and with each other. Our equine-guided programs offer individuals living with dementia and their care partners the opportunity to experience moments of joy, reflection, and empowerment alongside our gentle horse partners and each other. But behind every powerful moment is another essential partner: our volunteers.
Volunteers Are the Backbone of Our Work
Volunteers are the steady hands and open hearts that make our sessions possible. They help prepare horses, welcome participants, walk alongside them, and support the emotional and physical safety of each session at the barn or as part of the sensory engagement program in communities. With thoughtful attention and enthusiasm, volunteers help create the trusting environment that allows participants to feel seen, valued, and at ease. We also rely on volunteers to help with the many tasks of Connected Horse such as helping us with putting together kits, setting up for fundraisers, asking for community donations. We welcome individuals and groups such as NCL and Rotary to help us and experience the joy of supporting others.
All Connected Horse volunteers go through training to learn how to support our organization and participants with respect and empathy. They are taught how to interact with people living with cognitive change and how to be attuned to the needs of both participants and horses. But beyond the skills they bring, what truly stands out is their heart. They show up not for recognition, but because they believe in what we do. Our volunteers tell us they leave our volunteer events feeling like they made a difference, they feel good – it is what we call giving and receiving of care. Being a Connected Horse volunteer isn’t just about giving back—it’s also about belonging. Our volunteers often describe their experience as deeply meaningful and transformative. Whether they come from a background in horses, healthcare, or just a desire to help, volunteers find purpose in being part of something bigger than themselves.
Our Master Horse Handler
At the Five Star Equestrian Barn in Pleasanton, CA, you’ll find Linda B on Sunday afternoons, greeting each horse like an old friend. Kalida, Abby, Royale, Leo, Tino, and the rest of the herd know her calm, confident presence well—and so do we. Linda says she volunteers because she gains just as much as she gives, and her quiet dedication adds so much to our programs. She is also helping us train our newer volunteers in the art of horse handling.
Before each workshop, Linda checks in with the horses to see who’s ready and eager to connect. Her steady energy creates an instant sense of trust between her and the horses, setting the stage for deep moments of exploration between horse and human. During the sessions, she watches the magic unfold: curiosity turning into courage, quiet moments blossoming into connection. Linda helps us create a space where healing happens—often without words.
Our Volunteer with the Infectious Smile
Think about horses galloping on the beach, warm sun on your face, and sweeping ocean views—that’s the feeling you get when you’re around Diane B. After years working in senior living sales, walking alongside older adults as they navigated the decision to move into community living, Diane retired—but her desire to stay connected never faded.
She found her way to Connected Horse’s Sensory Engagement Program in the East Bay, where her warmth and creativity shine. Diane leads participants through guided meditations, helps them craft personal stories about their connections to horses, sparks thoughtful conversations about equine history, and fills the space with music and laughter. She brings presence, playfulness, and a deep respect for human connection into every session. Diane reminds us how meaningful it is to truly see and honor each person in the circle.
Thank You to Our Volunteers
To every volunteer who has walked alongside a participant, tended to a horse, supported our fundraisers, or lead a sensory engagement program—thank you. You are the quiet force behind every smile, every story shared, every moment of peace. Your dedication enables us to reach more people, provide deeper care, and continue creating moments that matter.
If you’re interested in becoming a part of the Connected Horse family, we invite you to learn more about our volunteer opportunities. You don’t need to be a horse expert—just someone who believes in the power of connection.
