Lily Donald, Harry, Monique Harrington, Cobbler, Sarah Roberts, Rachael Napier, Bandit, Ethan Baker and Tony Oddy.
A shining example of how volunteers can make a difference in the community is the Deniliquin Riding for the Disabled Association.
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The program is based on the belief that animal interaction can support growth and development - in this case between horse and human.
The program runs at the Deniliquin Pony Club grounds every second Friday from 9am to 2pm, with last week’s ride day happily falling in National Volunteers Week.
The group was founded and is led by volunteer Luke Harrington.
Fellow volunteer Rachael Napier said the program does not function without the wonderful volunteers they have, and said they are always looking for more.
The program has 12 regular clients booked in this year so far.
“It doesn’t take a lot, but the amount that people get out of it is huge,” Ms Napier said.
“I just turn up with my horse and coach.
“It helps so much with core fitness and social skills as well - not only for the participants, but the volunteers also.
“Being with the horses is such a wonderful experience; it can really calm people down or bring them out of their shell.”
Even in the drizzling rain on Friday, participants completed ground skills and show workouts, working on their connection and rhythm with the horses.
Ms Napier said one of her fondest memories was the first time she helped a person in a wheelchair ride a horse for the first time.
You can get the same feeling by lending a hand.
Volunteers and participants are treated to morning tea and lunch organised from the Deniliquin Pony Club kitchen - described as the “best canteen in Deni”.
If you would like to volunteer or learn more about the program, contact Mr Harrington on luke-harrington@bigpond.com or 0427 138 100.
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