Volunteers are the life-blood of Thorncroft
This work would simply not be possible without the efforts of those who give of their own hearts and spirit. We thank our volunteers for their tireless dedication to our mission!
I’m interested in volunteering!
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, have questions or would like your company to engage in a day of service please contact info@thorncroft.org
Please note that before participating in any capacity, ALL volunteers:
- Must have reached their 13th birthday
- If they are 18 years and older, must have completed their PA State and Child Abuse Clearance
- Submitted all completed forms and releases
Additionally, any volunteers that will be interacting with our horses or riders:
- Must register for and attend a New Volunteer Orientation.
- Email volunteer@thorncroft.org to register.
- Must be prepared to commit to a minimum of a 2 hour shift, lift 25 pounds, and walk two – four 30 minute shifts.
Please see the required forms below which must be reviewed, completed, and returned before participation.
Thank you!
2026 Volunteer Training Schedule
To sign up for any of our volunteer trainings, please contact volunteer@thorncroft.org
The 2026 New Volunteer Orientations run consistently on the 1st Sunday of every month.
April 12, May 3, June 7, July 12, September 6, October 4, November 1, December 6
2nd Level Lesson Trainings and Monthly Refresher Courses will be available to current, active volunteers.
Stage 1: All of our volunteers begin with Volunteer Orientation. We introduce our farm, herd, organization, and rider population. After this orientation, you may shadow our Lead Volunteers (those who have in depth knowledge of our mission and operations and help us train oncoming volunteers) until you are comfortable working independently.
Stage 2: After working with us in the barn and around the farm, you have the opportunity to take an advanced level of training to learn the techniques and safety protocols associated with leading and side aiding in our therapeutic lessons.
Refresher Courses: Current volunteers may join any of our Refresher courses to review skills, ask questions, and learn new and updated methods for working with our horses. Refresher courses cover topics such as equine care, tacking/grooming, lesson norms, or safety procedures. Each course is self directed based on questions attendees may have, in addition to relevant seasonal updates. Sign ups are open to active volunteers and are available in the lobby above the Volunteer Hours Sheets.
Ongoing Opportunities: All active volunteers have discounted access to the Continuing Education courses held at Thorncroft. Discount codes are listed within the Volunteer Handbook, which is given out at the New Volunteer Orientation. Please contact emma@thorncroft.org with questions regarding Clinics.
Support the Farm!
Since 1969 Thorncroft has provided a safe haven for children and adults with and without disabilities. The Farm now includes 70 acres of open space, a conference center, office space and two beautiful indoor arenas… but the work does not stop there.
Learn more about the many ways you can support Thorncroft.
