Barn Program Internship

Description

Victory Junction is a year-round camp facility that provides fully accessible on-site and off-site programming for children with complex medical conditions at no cost to their families. Victory Junction's adaptive, intentional programming includes summer camp, family weekends, day programs, equine therapy, pediatric patient outreach, and partner programs. By removing all barriers, Victory Junction welcomes children with serious illnesses and chronic medical conditions to experience camp fun, all in a medically-safe environment. Victory Junction is a member of SeriousFun Children's Network and is accredited by the American Camp Association.

This internship will provide the opportunity to work with a dedicated animal care and programming team under the guidance of the Barn Director.

• Gain valuable professional experience and mentorship from therapeutic riding instructor and nonprofit camp professionals.
• Develop practical skills in the care and management of both large and small animals.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist full-time barn staff with daily operations, including barn cleaning, feeding, grooming, tacking, and general animal care.
• Support barn programming by leading horses, serving as a side walker during therapeutic riding sessions, and assisting with petting zoo activities.
• Foster a positive, inclusive, and respectful environment for campers, staff, volunteers, and animals.
• Follow written and verbal multi-step instructions independently and accurately.
• Ensure compliance with all camp policies, procedures, and barn safety regulations.
• Promote the safety and well-being of campers, participants, staff, volunteers, and animals at all times.
• Maintain knowledge of and adhere to all policies and procedures outlined in the Barn Manual.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Barn Director.

Hours and Compensation:

• This is a paid internship with a weekly stipend of $150. 
• Housing and meals during programming would be provided. 
• Schedule would be working Friday – Tuesday with Wednesday and Thursdays as days off. 
• Eligible students may also receive academic credit through their college or university upon successful completion of the internship, subject to their institution's requirements.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years of age and possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Previous barn or equine experience preferred.
• Experience working with children is preferred.
• Demonstrated basic horsemanship skills, including grooming, tacking, and safe animal handling.
• Strong willingness to learn and accept constructive feedback.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask and maintain attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team. 

Physical Requirements:

• Reasonable accommodations may be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities.
• Frequently lift, carry, and move materials weighing up to 50 pounds or more.
• Regularly use hands for handling equipment and animals and communicate effectively through speaking and hearing.
• Frequently stand, walk, sit, bend, and reach throughout the workday.
• Work in an active outdoor barn environment under varying weather conditions.