I consent to and authorize the use and reproduction by Equest Center of any and all photographs, videotape, audio tape and any other audio visual materials taken of me, or as applicable, my son, daughter or ward to promote or benefit the Equest Center or recreational horseback riding, forever waiving any compensation for such use.

I, NAME OF PARTICIPANT/VOLUNTEER (as entered/detailed in this electronic document) would like to volunteer (at no charge) to assist one or more therapeutic riding clients with equine activities conducted by the EQUEST CENTER FOR THERAPEUTIC RIDING, INC. (“EQUEST CENTER”), a Michigan non-profit corporation. Accordingly, in consideration of being on the premises of the Equest Center, being near horses at the Equest Center, and allowed to participate/assist in equine activities at Equest Center, I acknowledge and agree as follows:

Equestrian activities are, by their very nature, a risk activity. Equestrian activities involve known and unanticipated risks which could result in physical or emotional injury, paralysis or permanent disability, death, and property damage. Risks include, but are not limited to, death, paralysis or serious injury as a result of falls while riding horses; broken bones, bruises and other bodily injuries caused by contact with horses, such as being bitten by, kicked by or stepped on by horses; medical conditions resulting from physical activity; and damaged clothing or other property. I understand such risks simply cannot be eliminated, despite the use of safety equipment, without jeopardizing the essential qualities of the activity.

On behalf of myself, my heirs, representatives and assigns and, as applicable, my ward or my minor child, I hereby assume full responsibility for and all risks associated with activities at the Equest Center. I fully understand there are risks and dangers associated with participation in equine activities which could result in serious bodily injury and/or death and/or property damage.

I release and discharge the Equest Center; including its officers, directors, employees, agents, instructors, contractors, riders, and other volunteers (“Released Parties”), from all lawsuits, actions, damages, claims and liability whatsoever, including, without limitation, death, and property damage or loss, which arise from or are in any way related to engaging in any activity at the Equest Center. I intend that my release and discharge includes all claims for damages resulting from the negligent act or omission of the Equest Center, including any Released Parties, excepting only the sole gross negligence or sole willful and wanton misconduct of these parties.

I further agree that this release and discharge of liability applies regardless of the legal cause of action on which my claim is based, including contract, strict liability, negligence, tort, or an alleged violation of the Michigan Equine Liability Act (PA 1494 No. 351).

I have adequate insurance to cover any injury or damage I may suffer or cause while participating in this activity, or else I agree to bear the costs of such injury or damage myself. I am willing to assume, and bear the costs of, all risks that may be created, directly or indirectly, by any physical condition that I have that may interfere with my safety while at the Equine Center.

I agree that this release of liability shall be governed by Michigan law and I acknowledge that the release exceeds the provisions of the Michigan Equine Liability Act because I am releasing the Released Parties for all damages, liability and causes of action, except only those for sole gross negligence or sole willful and wanton misconduct. WARNING: I UNDERSTAND THAT UNDER THE MICHIGAN EQUINE ACTIVITY LIABILITY ACT, AN EQUINE PROFESSIONAL IS NOT LIABLE FOR AN INJURY TO OR THE DEATH OF A PARTICIPANT INAN EQUINE ACTIVITY RESULTING FROM AN INHERENT RISK OF THE EQUINE ACTIVITY.

I have read and understand this release of liability. My participation in this activity is purely voluntary and I elect to participate despite the risks. In addition, if at any time I believe that event conditions are unsafe or that I am unable to participate due to physical or medical conditions, then I will immediately discontinue participation. I hereby sign this release freely, knowingly and without coercion by anyone.

Code of Conduct

The Equest Center recognizes that the primary interest of Equest volunteers/employees is the provision of safe, quality services and activities to participants in our programs. To that end this policy has been written to provide an understanding of appropriate conduct and to provide consistency in the administration of our agency.

On rare occasions, the conduct of a volunteer or employee may be such that it disrupts the orderly operations of the program, the maintenance of a positive program environment, or the interests and safety of staff, volunteers, participants, and horses. In recognition of the responsibility inherent in the delivery of services provided by the Equest Center for Therapeutic Riding, Inc., the Equest Center asks all volunteers and employees to respect the rights, dignity and well being of all individuals. Equest volunteers and employees also respect the integrity and well being of program and facility horses and animals.

The following conduct or behaviors constitute a breach of this code and if evidenced may result in discharge from the Equest Center program:

• Working under the influence or use of alcohol during the program.
• Being in possession of, distributing, selling, using or working under the influence of illegal drugs during the program, or while operating Equest Center owned vehicles or equipment.
• Engaging in negligent or improper conduct leading to damage of Equest owned, facility owned, or program participant owned property.
• Violation of safety, dress or health rules.
• Engaging in sexual or unlawful harassment.
• Exhibiting excessive absenteeism.
• Insubordination or verbally, emotionally or physically abusing program participants and/or family, or other personnel.
• Verbally, emotionally or physically abusing program or facility horses and animals.
• Engaging in dishonest behavior or theft.
• Engaging in disorderly conduct.
• Disclosing confidential information.