Bakas Therapeutic Riding Program: 9/11 Week of Service 2026 [HIL]

The September 11 Week of Service and Remembrance is an opportunity to honor the sacrifices made on that day by remembering the heroes, armed forces, first responders, and countless others whose acts of courage and service helped defend our nation's freedom. Through service, we pay tribute to those we lost and carry forward the spirit of unity, compassion, and community that emerged in the aftermath of September 11.
United Way Suncoast is proud to offer this volunteer opportunity with Bakas Equestrian Center as part of our annual 9/11 Week of Service & Remembrance. By giving your time, you'll help create opportunities for individuals with disabilities to build confidence, independence, and meaningful connections while experiencing the therapeutic benefits of horseback riding.
Bakas Equestrian Center provides therapeutic horseback riding for children and adults, with a special focus on individuals with disabilities. Volunteers are essential to the success of the program and help ensure riders have a safe, positive, and enriching experience. Whether assisting during lessons or helping care for the facility, your service makes a direct impact on the participants and families served by Bakas.

Volunteer tasks may include:

• During classes, you may help with grooming and tacking horses, setting up and breaking down the arena, assisting with games and activities, walking alongside riders for support, or helping untack and cool down horses after sessions.
• Between classes, volunteers assist with barn chores like cleaning stalls, paddocks, water troughs, and tack areas, as well as helping around the barn office.

No prior experience with horses is necessary. First-time volunteers will begin with a short 30-minute orientation video to get familiar with the program.
Closed-toed shoes are required! No flip flops or crocs.

Youth ages 13+ can volunteer with a guardian.
Thank you for volunteering and helping us honor the legacy of service associated with September 11