Nonprofit organization HorsePlay, Inc., prepares to get back in the saddle for its upcoming session by making the call for volunteers.

According to Program Director Hollie Holder, HorsePlay, Inc. needs session volunteers starting Sept. 7 through Oct. 3. Classes will be held on Monday starting Sept. 7 from 4-5 p.m., 5:156:15 p.m. and 6:30-7:30 p.m. Saturday classes will be held starting Sept. 12 from 9-10 a.m. and 10:1511:15 a.m.

“These classes run for eight weeks each,” Holder said. “We need volunteers to sign up for one hour time slots for the full eight weeks to assist children in our therapeutic riding program.”

Holder added the volunteers do not need to have prior experience, as they will receive training.

“We only require a heart for service, helping hands, and a willing attitude,” Holder said.

The duties of the session volunteers include walking alongside the children while providing safety holds, playing games for therapeutic purposes, and prompting the children to follow directions from the instructor. Other needs include leading the horse in class for the children.

Those wanting to lend a hand and volunteer are asked to attend HorsePlay’s New Volunteer Orientation, which is schedule for Monday, July 27, at 5 p.m. at HorsePlay’s facility, located at 815 Westside Drive in Tullahoma.

“We are asking that people aged 14-years-old and up come to a New Volunteer Orientation to learn more about the program, what our volunteer needs are and how you can help,” Holder said.

Anyone with questions about the orientation and other volunteer questions can either call 931-222-4159 or email horseplayinc. programdirector@gmail. com.

In addition to volunteers, HorsePlay is gearing up for the year’s fundraisers. According to Holder, the costs for taking care of one horse is from $3,000 to $5,000, while the cost to sponsor a student is $250. The families of the children are not charged.

“With eight horses onsite and over 45 children to serve per year our program costs exceed thousands of dollars,” Holder stated. “This does not include costs to upkeep our facility or pay our staff. We are able to support our program because of generous donors who provide horse and rider sponsorships, grants and of course fundraisers.”

One of those fundraisers is the Pony Plop on Aug. 15 at 5 p.m. at HorsePlay’s facility.

“Join us in the arena on Aug. 15 for some silly fun as we grid the arena into 307 squares,” Holder explained. “We will turn three horses into the arena and the first to “plop” in a square initiate the ticket holder to win a cash prize. There will be three guaranteed winners.”

Tickets are on sale now and are $25 per ticket. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Those who purchase tickets do not have to be present to win but they must be 18 years or older to purchase a ticket and win a prize. To purchase tickets, call 931-2224159.

HorsePlay, Inc. is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that provide recreational riding for special needs children ages four through 18. The goals of the programs are to help students build muscle strength, develop fine motor skills, and grow in independence and self-confidence. These programs help the children develop relationships with horses and people, enhancing their emotional and social skills. We rely on the generosity of our community to continue the program at no cost to our participants. Horse Play, Inc. complies with the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH) standards and guidelines concerning safety, training equipment and instruction.