Volunteers lend a hand at Stirrup Purpose equine therapy in Bend 

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Volunteers rolled up their sleeves Monday at Stirrup Purpose, an equine therapy nonprofit, on the east side of Bend known for using horses to help people heal — physically and emotionally. 

The ranch offers equine-assisted therapy to people of all ages, providing mental wellness support through human-animal connection. Riding and working with horses can also benefit balance, strength, and motor skills for those undergoing physical rehabilitation. 

As part of a regional “Day of Service” event, volunteers spent the day painting posts and completing maintenance projects around the property. Executive Director Penny Campbell said the organization relies heavily on volunteer support to keep things running smoothly. 

“Volunteers are in every part of what we do,” Campbell said. “They sidewalk with the horse, they handle the horse, and they help with facility maintenance and events. So volunteers are incredibly important to Stirrup Purpose.” 

Many of Monday’s volunteers came from Heart of Oregon Corps, a local program that provides young adults with job training, education, and career pathways. 

Connect Central Oregon also played a key role — coordinating volunteers and connecting them with local nonprofits taking part in the Day of Service.