A non-profit that uses horses to help kids with special needs has seen a significant drop in volunteers.
Saddle Up officials have asked people in the community to donate their time.
Kids like Alaina Kindoll can start their lesson inside the barn at Saddle Up.
Saddle Up Program Director Lindsey Wood said they let the children brush and take care of the horse at the beginning of the lesson.
Wood said, "Look at how pretty! Look at how clean he is, feel how soft he is!"
Once inside the ring, they work with Alaina on building physical strength.
Wood said, "Reach to the sky Alaina! Very good!"
According to Alaina's mom Kristen, the lessons have had a positive impact on her daughter's quality of life.
Kindoll said, "Physically she has a really weak core, and because of the horse riding, and being on the horse, you're having to do these micro adjustments so it really builds up your core which is pivotal for her."
Kindoll said Saddle Up has helped her 8-year-old daughter grow.
Kindoll said, "And then socially, she's made so many friends, and she's just opened herself up by interacting with the other kids and the adults."
If it weren't for volunteers like Marilyn Murray who walk beside the children, this non-profit wouldn't exist.
Kindoll said, "You will get so much more as a person and a volunteer dealing with the horses and the children by coming out here. It's really worth your time."
This fall, Saddle Up has been struggling to fill the volunteer spots regularly.
So they've asked the public for help so little girls like Alaina can continue coming out here for a small cost.
Right now they need about 200 volunteers a week.
If you think you might be interested in volunteering, you can email their volunteer coordinator at kkline@saddleupnashville.org.
