Therapeutic riding is the outcome of a team effort, including volunteer trainers, physical therapists, occupational therapists, physical education teachers, psychologists, social workers, and volunteer programme assistants. The role of volunteer programme assistant is of decisive importance to the success of our mission. Without volunteer assistants the implementation of our programmes would not be possible.

Any one of us can become a Therapeutic riding programme assistant; it does not require prior experience or riding skills. All it requires is a sense of purpose, consistency, enthusiasm, team spirit, and love for both humans and animals. It is important for assistants to go through training, which is provided by TRAG trainers.

The main duty of a volunteer is walking next to the horse and assisting the rider - under the instructor's supervision - to maintain a correct posture on the horse and helping him/her do the exercises. A volunteer can also help with the care of the horses or spend some time with the rider who waits for his/her turn to ride.

A unique and special relationship develops between programme participants and their assistants. Even persons of limited alertness and attention span, respond to a smiling, happy face, and grow to interact and bond with their assistant. What a gratifying experience it is to watch a person make progress, conquer and open up to new horizons, defying all kinds of disabilities!

Therapeutic Riding Association of Greece operates Monday to Saturday 9am until 12.30pm and Monday to Friday except Wednesday 3.30pm to 6.30pm. Select the day and time that is convinient for you, give us a call to arrange an appointment and come to meet us.