Reasons to Volunteer When running dressage shows, one thing is for certain... We could absolutely not do this without our amazing volunteers. We pride ourselves in providing show that provide a fun, exciting, unique atmosphere for our competitors and the volunteers are a vital part of producing this dream. But here's the thing... in order for our volunteers to provide premium competitor experience, we feel like it's important for our volunteers to also have an outstanding volunteer experience. Here's why you should want to join us for North Carolina's Dressage Parties... 1) Free Education - It seems everything about horses is expensive, however, volunteering is a free opportunity to watch some of the best instructors, trainers, and riders do their thing. 2) Meet New People - Competitions put us all on the same playing field. You can network to meet trainers, see horses for sale, and have the opportunity to have a positive impact on many people's day. 3) Perspective - For those of us that ride, it's so easy to get caught up in what we do are doing, that's it's easy to forget that everyone has good days and bad days. When you volunteer, you'll see that sometimes professionals fall off, sometimes the best horses jump out of the ring, sometimes the most seasoned competitors forget their test, and that everyone else is not on million dollar horses. It's all about perspective. 4) Different Roles for Different Folks - need exercise? Want to see what the view is from C? Want to be everyone's best friend by driving the Fiesta Fun Cart? There is literally a role for everyone! And we will be forever indebted to your service. 5) Swag Swag Swag - We have some absolutely amazing sponsors. And our sponsors provide some pretty cool things. Our competitors get stuff, but so do our volunteers! Because everyone likes to get cool, free, horse stuff!! 6) Food Food Food - One thing is for sure, we don't want our volunteers to get hungry. Snacks, lunch, and invites to our competitor's party will keep you well fed! 7) Motivation - Need an image of what 'softer hands' looks like? Or need some inspiration to pull that pasture puff out of the field and get to the ring? Nothing like being around other motivated people to get your grove back. 8) Join the Party - We truly like to throw dressage parties. Because wearing the outfits of royalties makes us a pretty pretentious group by appearance, we like to lighten the mood, and encourage our volunteers to embrace the mentality. 9) Paying it back - Not only does volunteering give you the chance to give back to the sport, but it also is an opportunity to give back by making someone's day better, easier, or more fun. |
Volunteer PositionsScribe
Perfect opportunity to get the view from C! This is the perfect opportunity to see what the judge is looking for, and use all those fast writing/abbreviation skills. The scribe transcribes the judges scores and notes, in addition to keeping tests organized and the judge on track. Scribing 101 from USDF Guide for Scribes Score Runner Perfect for someone who wants to get some exercise. The score runner is responsible for picking up tests and delivering them to the scorers in the horse show office in addition to making sure judges and scribes are taken care of. Opportunity to see the whole show grounds and meet lots of people. Ring Steward Responsible for sending competitors in the ring on time, in addition to bit checks, and maintaining the ring (setting up a knocked down section, etc...). Perfect time to reassure nervous competitors, and provide a friendly smile. Warm-Up Steward Responsible for keeping competitors aware of the schedule and order of go while enforcing rules to keep everyone safe. Perfect time to reassure nervous competitors and provide a friendly smile. Hospitality Responsible for keeping competitors, other volunteers, and staff well fed, and hydrated while keeping hospitality areas clean and organized. Duties may also include Fiesta Fun Cart piloting!! Awards Responsible for distribution of awards and tests at the Awards Table, and posting scores. Office/Manager's Assistant This position is for the well rounded individual. Duties include everything from delivering shavings, to assisting the announcer. Set-up/Take-Down Responsible for putting up rings, taking down rings, setting up shavings in stabling, unloading and loading. This role is for Thursday evening, Friday morning, and/or Sunday afternoon. |