The Phoenyx Farm & Sanctuary

Volunteer Equine Liability Waiver

Please read the agreement carefully before signing.

This agreement applies to volunteer services and activities at The Phoenyx Farm and Sanctuary, Inc. It explains the risks associated with volunteering around horses and other animals and records your acknowledgment and agreement.

Equine Release and Waiver of Liability, Assumption of Risk and Indemnity Agreement

Revision 2/1/2024

This Release and Waiver of Liability releases The Phoenyx Farm and Sanctuary, Inc., a nonprofit organized under the laws of the State of Maryland, as well as each of its officers, volunteers and agents at any location at which activities are occurring.

By signing this agreement, I express my desire to provide volunteer services for The Phoenyx Farm and Sanctuary, Inc. and engage in any/all activities related to serving as a volunteer. I have familiarized myself with the activities that I am allowed to participate in and will do so without restriction or limitation. I understand that the scope of the relationship is limited to a volunteer position and there will be no compensation expected in return for services provided, and insurance coverage in the event of personal injury or illness will be my own responsibility.

1. Waiver and Release. I release and forever discharge and hold harmless the nonprofit and its successors and agents from any and all liability, claims and demands of whatever kind or nature, in law or equity, which arise or may hereafter arise from the services I provide to the nonprofit, including loss, damage, attorney fees, etc. I understand and acknowledge that this release discharges the nonprofit from any liability or claim I may have with respect to bodily injury, personal injury, illness, death, or property damage that may result from negligence and/or the services I provide or occur while I am providing volunteer services. I acknowledge that by waiving this right, I shall not bring any legal lawsuit, action or proceeding against any released party, even if they engage in negligent conduct.

2. Insurance. I understand that the nonprofit does not assume responsibility or obligation to provide me with financial or other assistance, including medical, health, or disability benefits or insurance. I expressly waive any claim for compensation or liability on the part of the nonprofit beyond what may be offered freely in the event of injury or medical expenses incurred by me.

3. Medical Treatment. I acknowledge that there will be supervision at the sanctuary, however there are no medical staff or medical care. I release and forever discharge the nonprofit from any claim arising on account of first-aid treatment or other medical services rendered in connection with an emergency during my tenure as a volunteer.

4. Assumption of Risk. I understand that volunteer services may include hazardous activities, and I expressly assume risk of injury or harm and release the nonprofit from liability, including risks from: bites, kicks, abrasions, or contusions from animals cared for at the sanctuary; being thrown or bucked off horses; scratches or other injury from stalls, enclosures, grooming tools, equine equipment or tack; allergic reactions to animals, hay, or other allergens; tripping on materials, equipment, or uneven ground; slipping, falling, or other injury in barns, stalls, or on grounds; and weather hazards such as slippery, muddy, or wet conditions.

5. Photographic Release. I grant and convey to the nonprofit all right, title, and interests in photographs, images, video, or audio recordings of me or my likeness or voice made by the nonprofit in connection with my volunteer services.

6. Other. I agree that this release is intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted by the laws of the State of Maryland and shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with Maryland law. If any clause or provision is deemed invalid, enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not be affected.

I acknowledge that I participate in any/all activities at The Phoenyx Farm and Sanctuary, Inc. at my own risk and acknowledge that its principals, agents, and other volunteers bear no responsibility or risk associated with injuries that may arise from my presence or participation.

Volunteer details and signatures

For volunteers under 18

If the volunteer is a minor, a parent or guardian must also complete and sign this section.