Equestrian Instructor for At-Risk Youth
Do you want to be part of the most exciting and fulfilling job you’ve ever imagined?
Instruct small groups of youth in residential treatment and other youth in state custody through an exhilarating 10-week therapeutic summer adventure camp program. You’ll instruct groups in horse care, grooming, saddling, riding techniques, and take them on trail rides each day as they live in tents in the woods, cooking over a fire, and participating in 5-10 day therapeutic adventure programs. You’ll get to teach progressive riding skills to many groups and even teach some to work and drive cattle. You’ll have the opportunity to use horses in intentional ways to grow our young people’s confidence, relationships, and purpose, as well helping them heal from the past and grow hope for the future. You’ll also work with Wounded Veterans’ and Families and Siblings separated in Foster Care.
KVC’s Meramec Adventure Ranch
Who we are: Using the transformative power of the wilderness and adventure, KVC’s Meramec Adventure Ranch is dedicated to serving individuals and families whom much of the world has given up on, including youth struggling with traumatic pasts, youth in residential treatment, youth on the Autism Spectrum, and Wounded Warriors. Since 2006, the Ranch has grown to be one of the most extensive adventure bases in the Midwest and has served over 100,000 youth and families. The ranch is a unique program; the only one of its kind in Missouri and one of the few therapeutic adventure programs left in the country that serve youth in the state system.
During the summer you’ll serve youth in residential treatment, Siblings separated in the Foster care system, youth on the Autism Spectrum and families of Wounded Warriors. Youth are between the ages of 6-18, have experienced histories of severe trauma and abuse, and are working through significant emotional and behavioral challenges. Approximately 40-70 campers will attend each week. During these trips you’ll use horses in intentional ways as a catalyst to build relationships and produce victories that grow awareness, efficacy, connection, purpose, and hope.
Adventure experiences are not an escape from the daily grind. They are reality where, in an “off-balance” environment, the true self always eventually surfaces and must be faced, concrete victories are earned, natural consequences are plentiful, roles and gifts are discovered, and positive relationships are built. Evidence bears out that these experiences become defining moments for young men and young women as they grow, heal, and hope.
You can be a part of this critical program and play a vital role in the life stories of the incredible individuals we are honored to stand alongside each day!
What you get to do in this position:
When is Camp?
May 18th–June 2nd: Camp Preparation/Training/Adventure Race
June 5th–June 30th: Camp Sessions 1-4 (Court-Ordered Youth and Siblings)
July 1st–6th: Break
July 7th–Aug 2nd: Camp Sessions 5-8 (Wounded Warrior Families, Siblings separated in Foster Care, Kids with ASD)
Do I get paid for these positions?
Yes! Salaries are based on position and experience and range from $475-$525 per week. Meals and lodging are provided during camp, and housing is provided for time off if you desire to remain in the area. Practicums and internships are welcome.
Challenges:
Benefits:
Experience Needed:
For more information:
www.facebook.com/meramecranch/
https://missouri.kvc.org/meramec-adventure-ranch/
573-775-5513
If you are passionate about being part of what is happening at the Meramec Adventure Ranch, send your resume to bbailey@kvc.org
We would be honored to team up with you and stand alongside some pretty amazing youth!