goat (Great Outdoor Adventure Trips)

Don't be intimidated - we have a wide range of volunteer roles at GOAT. Not everybody has to be a raft guide, but that is one of the fun parts. Most people don't have a clue what goes into making a trip happen, and that's the goal. We want our groups (and their leaders) to be focused on their adventure (and hopefully their Creator) during their trip, so we work hard to remove any distractions, and we couldn't do it without our volunteers. From making sandwiches and cleaning vans to guiding rafts and leading Bible studies, our volunteers are a part of everything. We also have a number of office-oriented roles, for those of you who are maybe less adventurous - getting photos printed and CDs made for participants, helping with paperwork, stuffing newsletters and sticking stamps. GOAT volunteers have also been known to be 75% happier and 93% better looking, and as a bonus you get a free GOAT shirt that will make you way cooler than the rest of your friends. Raft Training FAQs What are the dates for the training?

Monday, May 14 - "Classroom" session #1 5:30-8:30pm
Saturday, May 19 - River session #1 All day
Monday, May 21 - "Classroom" session #2 5:30-8:30pm
Saturday, May 26 - River session #2 All day

How much does the course cost?

Our Raft Guide Training course costs $10 which is a steal. That includes training, a day of rafting, lunch and transportation.

Why do I need to be trained?

First, because it's required to be a Goat raft guide, but raft guide training is crucial to knowing and understand the river you are guiding on, and ensuring the safety of the kids we take out. The forest service also requires that anyone guiding on the Nantahala be registered, so only guides who go through our training will be registered with the forest service, and therefore eligible to guide this summer.

How long is the training valid?

Our training is valid as long as you are a Goat guide. It's a one time thing as long as you display competence guiding a raft on the Nantahala river. Should Goat ever guide on other rivers, we will do orientation trips to make sure our guides are familiar with the river, but no other training classes will be necessary.

Do I have to take this class again in a year?

No, once we feel that you're comfortable with a raft, you,re good to go.

What if I've already been to Goat raft guide training?

If you've already been trained with us, you'll only need to attend a classroom session for new material, but you're still welcome to join us for any or all of the training, as it may have been a while since you've used your skills.

What if I already have ACA, NOC, or private raft guide training?

Any formal raft guide training should suffice for the skills you will need. However, we would love to have you out on the river to get familiar with our other guides and our program.

Do I need to attend all 4 sessions?

At minimum we would like everyone to attend one classroom session and one river session. If you can attend both river sections, that's great (and way more fun!)

What kind of equipment will I need?

More information will be sent out to answer this question as we get closer to the training dates. All you will really need is a pair of clothes and shoes you can get wet, a towel, and a dry change of clothes. All of the equipment will be provided by our partner on the river, Appalachian Rivers.

Any more questions?

Please feel free to call our office at (864) 469-5042

How do I signup?

Signing up is quick and easy - Click here for the online registration

First Aid/CPR Training FAQs What are the dates for the training?

May 8 - 5:30-8:30pm
May 10 - 5:30-8:30pm

How much does the course cost?

The course will cost $20 per person. These costs are passed on from the American Red Cross for materials and administrative fees. It's a bargain compared to the usual $65 certification.

Why do I need to be FA/CPR Certified?

First, because it's required to be a GOAT guide, but First Aid and CPR skills are also great lifesaving skills to know. And chicks dig it.

Who certifies your FA/CPR training?

Goat is an Authorized Provider of American Red Cross Training. This means you will receive American Red Cross certifications when you pass the training.

How long is the training valid?

American Red Cross First Aid and CPR certificates are valid for 2 years

Do I have to take this class again in a year?

No, you don't. Lucky you.

What if I already have First Aid/CPR, WFR, WFA, or EMT Training?

Any of these certifications are valid, we just need copies of your certificates.

I have American Heart Association training, not American Red Cross; will that count?

Yes, a valid AHA or other certificate for FA/CPR will suffice, again we will only need copies of your certificates.

What do I need to bring with me for the class?

Nothing. Everything will be provided by Goat.

Any more questions?

Please feel free to call our office at (864) 469-5042

How do I signup?

Signing up is quick and easy - Click here for the online registration