Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County

Join us for an ongoing project, creating a healthy native habitat on Seabright State Beach in Santa Cruz, on both the low-lying dunes and adjacent cliffside. We do this by removing invasive vegetation and replacing it with California native plants which are indigenous to local beach habitats. The native vegetation in turn is attracting an increasing number of native fauna, including bees, butterflies, and birds. During much of the year, we are removing invasive vegetation - ice plant, European annual grasses, thistle, and others. This is mostly hand pulling of the weeds, but where needed, we use tools like hori-horis, hoes, and garden forks. We put the pulled weeds on tarps, and drag the tarps to nearby designated piles. Tools and training will be provided. For a small period of time in the rainy season, we also plant new natives. We dig a small hole in the ground with a hori-hori (trowel), then plant a seedling, and water it. We may water the plants additionally later on if the winter and spring are unusually dry. Each Monday workday is at Seabright State Beach, but exactly where on this half mile long beach varies week to week. Please contact Jeb Bishop at jeb.bishop@groundswellecology.org to find out the specific location for a given workday.

Santa Cruz, CA

1/20/20 9:00 AM + more

Join us for a morning of restoration and beautification at Evergreen Cemetery on Martin Luther King Day of Service from 9:30am to 12:30pm, Monday, January 20th. Please bring water. Gloves and tools will be provided, but if you have your own gloves please bring them. We'll have a variety of projects to choose from. History is more than just a story in a book. Many of the adventurous people who arrived in the 1800s and helped change Santa Cruz from a small Mexican village and Catholic Mission into a growing modern city are found at Evergreen Cemetery. Gold prospectors, artists, Chinese immigrants, mountain men, Yankees, Civil War veterans, lawyers, Masons, infants, and the forgotten are among those buried in Evergreen Cemetery. Research local history. When you walk through Evergreen, hear family stories, and touch the beautifully carved tombstones, history comes alive. Visit Evergreen or attend an event. Join MAH in a major effort to restore and transform Evergreen Cemetery into an inspiring place for learning local Santa Cruz history.

Santa Cruz, CA

1/20/20 9:30 AM

Date: January 20th 2020 Time: 9:30am - 2pm What: A day of service at the Homeless Garden Project Farm to honor the social justice work of Martin Luther King Jr. Where: Homeless Garden Project Farm, CLICK HERE for a map Purpose: A day of service at Homeless Garden Project Farm. An opportunity to come together and celebrate equality and social justice as a community. Timeline: 930am: Volunteers arrive at the farm to check in 10am - 10:30am: Circle and Stretch 10:30am - 12pm: Farm volunteer tasks 12pm - 1pm: Break for lunch and talks 1pm - 2pm: Back to farm tasks 2pm: Clean up Farm Tasks: Are to be determined as the date gets closer. Will vary from weeding, planting and other farm related tasks.

Santa Cruz, CA

1/20/20 9:30 AM

Join us for a beach day! Help pick up trash at the beach downtown on MLK Day of Service. January 20, 2020 from 10am to 12pm. Main Beach is a beloved and relaxing location for Santa Cruz locals and visitors alike. The beauty of this beach also attracts large crowds all year long, especially during busy summer months. Illegal fires, partying, and inappropriate disposal of trash has been harmful to local wildlife, neighbors and tourists. Help us monitor and clean up Main Beach! Individual and group volunteers are welcome. The Volunteer Center provides all necessary supplies, and we encourage volunteers to bring their own reusable buckets, gloves, and water bottles, wear sturdy shoes, sun protection and to dress in layers. Check in will be located above the beach at 106 Beach St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 (across the street from the Picnic Basket) We will be cleaning RAIN or SHINE! We will meet at 10:00 AM next to the bathrooms between the volleyball nets and Ideal Bar and Grill. Youth ages 12-17 may attend without an accompanying adult, but need to bring the following completed permission slip: https://scvolunteercenter.org/ wp-content/uploads/2019/05/YS- Permission-registration-media- form.doc

Santa Cruz, CA

1/20/20 10:00 AM

The UC Santa Cruz Arboretum is seeking your assistance this MLK Day with two opportunities to help in the garden. Help beautify the California Conservation Garden (CCG), a collection for rare and endangered plant communities of the Central Coast! Tasks will include weeding in the California Conservation Garden. OR Dr.Ball's Redwood Grove needs pruning of its branches along the redwood trail. This project is for adults and children with their parents, as we will be using clippers, saws, and loppers, which can only be handled by adults. We will have people pair up, so one person is holding the branch while the other saws/cuts down the branch. Sign-up here for either project: volunteersignup.org/TH3WB Location: UCSC Arboretum - 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz Time: 10am - 12pm OR 12pm -2pm (you can join for either shift or both) Things We'll Provide: Snacks, Tools (please bring gloves, we have a small limited amount), On-site training (no experience necessary) Things to Bring: Gloves (if you have them), Water and Lunch (if needed)

Santa Cruz, CA

1/20/20 10:00 AM

Honor the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr on Monday, January 20th by volunteering! We'll meet at the Santa Cruz Bible Church at 12pm for light refreshments and and then make 200 cards for community members in need of some good cheer. Cards will be distributed to all Meals on Wheels seniors for Valentines Day. This is a family friendly volunteer opportunity. We need your childrens' creative talents to put smiles on the faces of the seniors who will receive the cards! We will also be putting together File of Life packets to aid in medical emergencies. Date and time: Monday, January 20 from 12pm-2pm Location: Santa Cruz Bible Church 440 Frederick St. Santa Cruz In the coffeehouse Youth ages 12-17 may attend without an accompanying adult, but need to bring the following completed permission slip: https://scvolunteercenter.org/ wp-content/uploads/2019/05/YS- Permission-registration-media- form.doc

Santa Cruz, CA

1/20/20 12:00 PM

Volunteer Responsibilities and Impact Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay builds decent, affordable housing for qualified, low income families in our community. Volunteers assist the construction site manager with many tasks including, framing, drywall, painting, landscape, roofing, etc. Tasks are assigned according to the progress of the build site. All volunteers are welcome; no prior experience is necessary. Habitat provides all tools and equipment. In a community greatly impacted by unaffordable housing as well as a housing crisis shortage, volunteers are our champions - helping families realize the dream of home ownership. Shift Days, Times, and the Expected Time Commitment Volunteers assist on site Wed-Sat, 8am - 2:30pm. You can select a one-time opportunity, or sign up for multiple shifts. We also accept up to 8 volunteers for a group or team build. The Volunteer Coordinator provides an orientation the first time you volunteer. What qualifications are we looking for? No experience is necessary. All volunteers 16 years of age or older are welcome to participate. Training is provided, on site with an initial orientation, and learning opportunities continue each day the volunteer participates at a build site through the leadership of the site manager, and volunteers are mentored by experienced, skilled volunteer "regulars." Volunteer Benefits Learn construction skills, support low-income housing in Santa Cruz County, personal enrichment, and community involvement with an established nonprofit organization. After initial contact with the Volunteer Coordinator, interested volunteers will be directed to our online sign up program, Sign Up Genius (SUP), where you will create a profile and select shifts. Our current construction site is at Los Esteros Court in Live Oak where we are completing the 7th home of a 7-home build. This 3 bedroom, 2 bath home has been designated for a family with a veteran member. In the Spring of 2020, Habitat will begin construction for 11 homes, also in the Live Oak area of Santa Cruz. Opportunities abound. We look forward to welcoming you! Get Involved...Select the Red "Express Interest" button below **This is a Referral Opportunity, which means it is run directly by one of our nonprofit partners. Once you express interest, someone from the partner organization should follow up with you shortly to discuss confirming you as a volunteer for this opportunity.

Santa Cruz, CA

1/22/20 8:00 AM + more

Grey Bears improves the health and well being of seniors through food distribution, volunteerism and community participation. Volunteers are essential to the success of Grey Bear's programs! Volunteer opportunities include packing food for the Brown Bag Delivery program, cooking lunch, ringing up sales at the thrift store, sorting recycling, assisting in the office, selling books online, facility maintenance and more! Before volunteering we ask that you attend an orientation. We hold an orientation every Wednesday at 1pm in the main office of Grey Bears. At the orientation you can sign up for the project that fits your interests.

Santa Cruz, CA

1/22/20 1:00 PM + more

Become part of the Jacob’s Heart Volunteer Community Jacob’s Heart is an inclusive place for anyone who wants to give back and make an impact in the lives of local children with cancer and their families. Whether you have 30 minutes or a whole day, we want to find the perfect volunteer opportunity for you! Volunteers can help us with any of the below projects: - Grocery Packing - Grocery Delivering - Office Support - Special Events - Pantry Program Volunteers must attend a special volunteer orientation which happens every Wednesday at 3:30pm or by appointment at the Jacob’s Heart Family Center, 680 West Beach Street, Watsonville. Volunteer applications (to fill out) are available at the Volunteer Orientation.

Watsonville, CA

1/22/20 3:30 PM + more

Join us at Evergreen cemetery for a few hours of work maintianing and restoring this historical site. We meet every Friday from 9:30 to 12:30. There are projects for all abilities. Lunch is provided at noon - please rsvp so we have an accurate head count. We are an all-volunteer effort that has been steadily uncovering, restoring, improving, and adding to Evergreen Cemetery to make it a beautiful, safe and educational site. We aim to inspire our community to learn more about local history, appreciate the many cultures represented at Evergreen, and make use of the site. Wear clothes you can get dirty and bring a bottle of water. If you have work gloves please bring a pair (we have extras for people who need them).

Santa Cruz, CA

1/24/20 9:30 AM + more

Gardeners help maintain the Native Plant Demonstration Garden which includes weeding, planting and pruning. No particular gardening skills required, just a love of the outdoors and a zest learning about plants and gardening! Gardeners work at our main office so there isn't any strenuous walking. They generally work out on our back patio where we have benches and a cement path. We are wheelchair accessible and welcome everyone! We'll teach you whatever you need! We have field guides to help volunteers learn about the native plants of the Pajaro Valley and the names of plants that we typically restore out in the wetlands. You'll learn how to use the tools the gardeners use on site from our amazing cohort of regular volunteers. You'll learn SO MUCH about plants that exist in the wetlands of the Pajaro Valley and about restoration. Many of ou volunteers are eager birders and are always happy to share what they see around us while they work. Our volunteers come from such a large array of professions so you are guaranteed to learn something and meet some interesting people.

Watsonville, CA

1/24/20 10:00 AM + more

Help sow seeds and transplant plants for restoration projects at Watsonville Wetlands Watch. No particular gardening skills required, just a love of the outdoors and a zest learning about plants and gardening! Propagators work at our main office so there isn't any strenuous walking. They generally work out on our back patio where we have benches and a cement path. We are wheelchair accessible and welcome everyone! We'll teach you whatever you need! We have field guides to help volunteers learn about the native plants of hte Pajaro Valley and the names of plants that we typically restore out in the wetlands. You'll learn propagation techniques from our amazing cohort of regular volunteers. You'll learn SO MUCH about plants that exist in the wetlands of the Pajaro Valley and about restoration. Many of ou volunteers are eager birders and are always happy to share what they see around us while they work. Our volunteers come from such a large array of professions so you are guaranteed to learn something and meet some interesting people.

Watsonville, CA

1/24/20 11:00 AM + more

Restoration Saturday Come out and help the Watsonville Wetlands Watch restoration staff work to make our wetlands healthier every fourth Saturday of the month! Work usually consists of planting native plants, removing exotic invasive plants, and helping in our native plant greenhouse. We work from 9am until 12 noon – and always make time for bird watching or a short hike around the wetlands. This is a great opportunity for students to get volunteer hours and for volunteers to get to know our amazing wetlands! Tools gloves, and snacks are provided and volunteers should be sure to bring hats, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Meet at the Wetlands Educational Resource Center at the top of the Pajaro Valley High School campus next to the basketball courts (500 Harkins Slough Rd) to carpool to sites. Please Note: organized groups of over 15 people or more should make sure to contact the coordinator with advance notice to ensure adequate supplies and tools Get Involved...Sign Up for This Opportunity or email the Project Coordinator for more info.

Watsonville, CA

1/25/20 9:00 AM + more

Volunteers are needed to help us prepare vegan meals on Saturdays and Sundays from 12:30 pm-3pm. No experience is needed as we always need help with the basics of washing and cutting vegetables. We will provide training for cooking volunteers that are able to commit to volunteering once a month. Experienced cooks are always welcome to share their expertise. Volunteers are welcome to join us in serving the meal at the Post Office from 4pm - 6pm and with clean up afterwards. We especially need help with clean-up after the meals from 6pm to 7pm. Food Not Bombs is entirely volunteer-run and doesn't ask their volunteers to contact them before they volunteer. If you'd like to volunteer, wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty and will be warm when you work outside, and just show up!

Santa Cruz, CA

1/25/20 12:30 PM + more

Join the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History to keep our Garden Learning Center thriving! We have worked hard to transform our surrounding grounds from a creekside jungle of invasive ivy, blackberry, and mattress wire vine into a pollinator and California native plant haven -- and there is always more work to be done! As a garden volunteer, you will help us with watering, weeding, pruning and replanting. You will also learn about sustainable gardening practices and California Native plants! All ages are welcome; children under 14 require adult supervision. Tools and gloves will be provided, but you are welcome to bring your own if you have some. We will garden in light rain, but will cancel in the case of a downpour. Volunteers should wear closed-toe shoes, and bring gloves (if you have them), a reusable water bottle, and sun protection. Gardening gloves, tools, and water will be provided. Get Involved... Select the Red "Sign Up" button below! **This is a Referral Opportunity, which means it is run directly by one of our nonprofit partners. You can also contact the coordinator directly by using the "email" link below or by visiting the program website at the top of this posting.

Santa Cruz, CA

2/1/20 10:00 AM + more

Young Volunteers are Needed to Tutor Seniors in Technology Help seniors navigate in the digital age and stay connected with their community with their personal electronic devices. From e-mail to iPads, our seniors need your help! No experience is required - just a willingness to help out! The next Senior Tech Days from 12pm to 3pm are scheduled for: Saturday, October 5 & 19 Saturday, November 2 & 16 Saturday, December 7 & 21 Saturday, January 4 & 18 Saturday, Feb 1 & 15 Saturday, March 7 & 21 Saturday, April 4 & 18 Saturday, May 2 & 16 All Senior Tech Days in Santa Cruz are held on the first and thrid Saturday of every month from 12pm-3pm at the Louden Nelson Community Center. Sign Up by clicking on the red box below. You can also RSVP for the event by emailing us at YS@SCVOLUNTEERCENTER.ORG

Santa Cruz, CA

2/1/20 12:00 PM + more

Suicide Prevention Service is looking for new suicide crisis line volunteer responders. Join us for a rewarding experience while learning active listening skills, self-care, and suicide and crisis intervention techniques. Training is provided and no prior experience is required—only a willing and open heart. 18+ Volunteers receive 40+ hours of training on Tuesday and/or Thursday evenings. After training, volunteers commit to a four hour shift, once a week for one year. Training begins Friday, January 31st, 2020! For 50 years Suicide Prevention Service has been serving Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Benito County residents through our services, which include a 24-hour suicide crisis hotline. More than anything, people with thoughts of suicide need a safe place to express their thoughts and feelings and be heard. For more information and to apply, please call our administrative line at (831) 459-9373, visit us at www.suicidepreventionservice.org, or email us at sps24hr@fsa-cc.org We look forward to hearing from you! [If you are suicidal, in crisis, or concerned for a loved one, please call our 24 hour suicide crisis hotline at 1-877-663-5433] Get Involved...Select the Red "Express Interest" button below **This is a Referral Opportunity, which means it is run directly by one of our nonprofit partners. Once you express interest, someone from the partner organization should follow up with you shortly to discuss confirming you as a volunteer for this opportunity.

Santa Cruz, CA

Through2/3/20

All VIP internships and volunteer opportunites are unpaid positions designed to give students, graduates and interested community members exposure to aspects of local government. The Volunteer Initiative Program matches interested community members with volunteer internships throughout the Santa Cruz County Government. We work with all County departments including the District Attorney's Office, the Health Services Agency, Law Library, Women's Commission, Personnel, Parks, Probation, the Sheriff Office and many more. There are ongoing internship opportunities and special project positions available within various county departments. A volunteer opportunity or volunteer internship is an ideal way to gain skills, update your resume and help County Government to serve our community. Individuals should complete an application and submit a cover letter and resume that clearly expresses your area of interest. Get Involved...Select the Red "Express Interest" button below **This is a Referral Opportunity, which means it is run directly by one of our nonprofit partners. Once you express interest, someone from the partner organization should follow up with you shortly to discuss confirming you as a volunteer for this opportunity.

Santa Cruz, CA

Through3/31/20

A legal advocate for survivors of domestic violence attends family law restraining order hearings in person at the Watsonville courthouse to provide assistance with legal paperwork, provide peer and emotional support, answer general questions about the legal system without offering legal advice, liaise between the survivor and court employees, and offer local legal resources as needed. Previous experience in advocacy or law is not required. Training is included and meets the California legal requirements to be certified as an advocate for domestic violence survivors (California Evidence Code §1037). Why It Matters Current research shows that, in the US, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men experience some form of abuse from an intimate partner. Domestic violence has a reciprocal relationship with other forms of abuse of power, such as racism, transphobia, and ableism, and it is the primary cause of homelessness among women. It impacts not only the well-being of an individual but also the family, the community, and society as a whole. Because domestic violence is so prevalent, it comes up in areas outside of domestic violence agencies: hospitals, therapists’ offices, substance use recovery programs, homelessness, schools, families, friend groups, corporate workplaces, law enforcement, etc. Benefits Understanding of domestic and gendered violence in both the personal and broader political contexts Skill development in crisis intervention Skill development in peer support, emotional support, healthy boundaries, and other interpersonal skills Being a safer, more effective ally for survivors both professionally and personally Knowledge of local family law processes Additional trainings and professional development opportunities offered by guest speakers at the monthly supervisory meetings Opportunity for academic credit, work experience, and other benefits for future educational or employment options Opportunities for networking with local legal officials, employees, and groups Requirements Be 18 years or older Have not received domestic violence services as a participant with Walnut Avenue for a minimum of two years Attend a Walnut Avenue volunteer orientation Pass a fingerprinting/criminal background check Completion of the 40+ hour advocacy certification training (required by California law) Participation in our 24-hour hotline service Detail-oriented, punctual, and able to conform to structural requirements/policies Business or business-casual attire An email which is checked regularly Professional verbal and written communication with supervisor Maintain high confidentiality standard Bilingual Spanish encouraged but not required Time Commitment Commitment to 12 consecutive months of service One weekly shift on our hotline (9am-5pm or 5pm-9am), taken anywhere you have phone reception and the option for privacy One monthly professional development/supervisory meeting, attended in person (first Wednesdays, 5:30-7:30pm) Attending court every Thursday from 7:30am-1pm Associated Costs Certification training with commitment to 12 months: $50 materials fee Certification training without commitment to 12 months: $250 Standard background check (required for all volunteers): $45 Background check for volunteers also providing services for children and teens: $102, with option for reimbursement after 3 months of service If cost is a barrier for you, please contact the community engagement coordinator to discuss your options without judgment at mcoffey@wafwc.org. To Get Started The first step is to attend a volunteer orientation at Walnut Avenue Family & Women’s Center, which happen about twice a month/every two weeks. To hear upcoming dates and times and to register for the one which works best for you, please call our office at (831) 426-3062. If you have any questions or concerns about this process, please contact our community engagement coordinator, Marjorie Coffey, at mcoffey@wafwc.org. It is the policy of Walnut Avenue Family & Women’s Center to provide equal employment, volunteer opportunities and services to participants (EEO) to all persons regardless of ancestry, age, color, national origin, disability (physical and mental, includes HIV and AIDS), genetic information, race, religion (includes religious dress and grooming), gender, sex (includes pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding and/or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, military or veteran, request for FMLA or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Get Involved...Select the Red "Express Interest" button below **This is a Referral Opportunity, which means it is run directly by one of our nonprofit partners. Once you express interest, someone from the partner organization should follow up with you shortly to discuss confirming you as a volunteer for this opportunity.

Santa Cruz, CA

Through11/30/20

Because there are many ways a cancer diagnosis can impact a woman’s life on a daily basis, our wonderful family of volunteers offers a wide array of practical support to women undergoing treatments. Transportation volunteers provide practical support to women with cancer by giving rides to and from medical appointments. This is an easy way to make a big difference in the lives of others! Volunteer Benefits: “It’s like I’ve sprinkled pixie dust over their seat because the minute that they get into the car they just outpour whatever they are going through. I’m a sounding board. I listen, I have two ears, they can talk them off… they will grow back. It just gives me so much and I learn so much from them” - WomenCARE Volunteer Driver “Every weekday for 6 weeks, WomenCARE's volunteer drivers get me safely and reliably to my radiation treatments at Stanford South Bay. Their generosity is amazing -they provide this service in their own cars and pay for the gas themselves -but best of all is their genuine friendliness and our impromptu conversations. We talk about fly fishing, cycling, bears, hiking, pets, recipes, movies, books, even politics and sometimes about cancer. Time flies with such good company and transforms this difficult trip into a pleasant one!” – WomenCARE Client Get Involved...Select the Red "Express Interest" button below **This is a Referral Opportunity, which means it is run directly by one of our nonprofit partners. Once you express interest, someone from the partner organization should follow up with you shortly to discuss confirming you as a volunteer for this opportunity.

Soquel, CA

Through5/29/20

Volunteer Responsibilities and Impact Community Aid and Resources is a student-run organization through UCSC dedicated to helping those experiencing homelessness in our community. We do this through providing free resource clinics with services like haircuts, footwashes, hygiene supplies, blankets, clothing, bike repair, food and more. We are always looking for community collaborators interested in providing services or resources to share/distribute. Shift Days, Times, and the Expected Time Commitment We do not meet on a regular basis, as we try to keep our volunteers as active as possible, for more information on the events we have planned feel free to email us at caresc11@gmail.com What qualifications are we looking for? We are always interested in working with anyone who has specific services or resources they can contribute to our bi-monthly clinics. Volunteer Benefits Help us bridge the connection between the UCSC student community and the larger Santa Cruz city area! Check out our Instagram @ care.sc Get Involved...Select the Red "Express Interest" button below **This is a Referral Opportunity, which means it is run directly by one of our nonprofit partners. Once you express interest, someone from the partner organization should follow up with you shortly to discuss confirming you as a volunteer for this opportunity.

Santa Cruz, CA

Through9/3/20

The UC Santa Cruz Arboretum relies on almost 200 volunteers to keep this place growing! By volunteering at the UC Santa Cruz Arboretum you become part of a community that directly supports the Arboretum's mission, to inspire stewardship of the world's biodiversity through research, education, and the conservation of rare, endangered, and extraordinary plants. When volunteering, you will learn by working side by side with professionals in gardening, horticulture and education while gaining hands-on experience in the beautiful gardens. You will meet others with similar interests and experience the joy and satisfaction of working together on important projects. Norrie's Gift Shop: Working in Norrie’s Gift and Garden Shop is a great way to support the Arboretum while welcoming and interacting with fellow bird, plant and garden lovers from all over the world. The shop serves both as gift shop, nursery and visitor center. Work involves operating the cash register, welcoming guests to the Arboretum, answering questions about the gardens (as possible), assisting shoppers, cleaning and restocking the shelves. First Gardeners: Volunteers help with weeding, light pruning, some planting and general clean up in the California Entrance Garden. Opportunities abound to learn about native plants, pollinators and other critters! with the Entrance Native Garden. Tuesdays 9am – 12pm. Meet at the Entrance Garden off the lower parking lot. Kiwi Gardeners: We weed, prune, and do general garden upkeep of the New Zealand Garden. Meets every Tuesday from 9:30-12:30 followed by "tea time" a hearty snack with tea served either hot or iced. Meets in the New Zealand garden weekly. Roma Garden/Wayside Weeders: This new weeding group will be focusing on the wayside gardens of the main Arboretum road, keeping them tended and glorious for everyone's enjoyment or meets in Aroma Garden. Meets 10am - 11:30 am each Wednesday, meets at Norrie's Gift Shop. Aussie Weeders: The Aussie Weeders have a wonderful time weeding and tending to the amazing plant collections of the Australian gardens, the largest collection of Australian plants outside of Australia! Meets every Thursday morning at 9:00am near the upper Horticulture Buildings. Bring gloves, water, and sun protection. California Native Conservation Garden: Volunteers help with weeding, light pruning, more weeding, planting and transplanting of California Native plants. Opportunities abound to learn about native plants and critters! Meets Thursdays 9am - 12pm. Succulents Garden: Volunteers keep the succulent collection healthy and prepare cacti and other succulents for sale. Opportunities include upkeep of the succulent garden (mostly weeding), grooming succulents at the shop, working in the desert house dome and Echeveria house, transplanting succulents, sowing seeds and weeding. Monday-Friday 9m-12pm, volunteers can stop by anytime during this window. APPLY ONLINE: https://arboretum.ucsc.edu/support/volunteer/index.html Get Involved...Select the Red "Express Interest" button below **This is a Referral Opportunity, which means it is run directly by one of our nonprofit partners. Once you express interest, someone from the partner organization should follow up with you shortly to discuss confirming you as a volunteer for this opportunity.

Santa Cruz, CA

Through1/31/20

Volunteer Responsibilities and Impact Leading a 45 minute to 1 hour group, in beginners poetry or journal writing class. The class would be at our program site, with a group of 5 or more older adults and adults with disabilities. Shift Days, Times, and the Expected Time Commitment Our program is open Monday through Friday. Participants would be ready to start the class before and after lunch (10:45 am through 12 pm, then 12:45-2pm.) What qualifications are you looking for? We are looking for some one interested in helping our program participants fulfill and express their artistic talents. Elderday is committed to enhancing the lives of all our program participants. Volunteer Benefits The enjoyment of knowing they have helped enhance and brighten the lives of this grateful, yet under served population. Get Involved...Select the Red "Express Interest" button below **This is a Referral Opportunity, which means it is run directly by one of our nonprofit partners. Once you express interest, someone from the partner organization should follow up with you shortly to discuss confirming you as a volunteer for this opportunity.

Santa Cruz, CA

Through1/31/20

Drivers deliver bags of fresh produce and essential groceries to homebound and isolated seniors. The driving shift is flexible between 7:30am and 11am on Thursdays and Fridays. The brown bag program helps seniors stretch fixed income dollars and provides an opportunity for meaningful community connections. Driving Routes are Countywide and you can drive in a location that's convenient for you. Volunteers need to be 18 years of age or older, have a valid California driver's license, be responsible and friendly. Kids of all ages are welcome to volunteer with an adult driver. Volunteer drivers make a difference in our community and the lives of seniors. Volunteer drivers are reimbursed for their gas mileage and receive a free bag of groceries as well. Volunteers must attend an orientation before they begin. Regular orientations are held every Thursday at 1p. You can sign up for an orientation here. If you are not able to attend the regular orientation you can schedule a one-on-one orientation with the volunteer coordinator. Get Involved...Select the Red "Express Interest" button below **This is a Referral Opportunity, which means it is run directly by one of our nonprofit partners. Once you express interest, someone from the partner organization should follow up with you shortly to discuss confirming you as a volunteer for this opportunity.

Santa Cruz, CA

Through3/31/20

Do you enjoy helping others and want to make a difference in a person's life? Join Helping Hands Senior Home Repair. Home Repair Volunteers are needed to provide safety home repairs for low income senior(60+) homeowners. Repairs include safety modifications such as grab bars and hand rails. Installation of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Provide safety home inspections to assure senior's are safe in their homes. Get Involved...Select the Red "Express Interest" button below **This is a Referral Opportunity, which means it is run directly by one of our nonprofit partners. Once you express interest, someone from the partner organization should follow up with you shortly to discuss confirming you as a volunteer for this opportunity.

Santa Cruz, CA

Through3/3/20

Friends Outside uses volunteers in a variety of capacities. Volunteers supplement our Jail Visiting, Aftercare, Re-entry, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy programs, as well as assist with administrative assistance and special projects. Please contact us if you are interested in volunteering with Friends Outside.

Santa Cruz, CA

Through8/31/20

As a Teen Kitchen Project volunteer, you have the opportunity to be involved in our kitchen side by side with many other teens to create the hundreds of beautifully delicious and nourishing meals we make every week for families in our community who are dealing with serious illness. We have two kitchens - one in Santa Cruz and one in Watsonville and teen volunteers are needed at both locations. Working at the Teen Kitchen Project is a wonderful experience. You have the opportunity to work with teens from all over the county, learn new cooking skills, meet great people, contribute to your community, and learn about how our food choices, influence not only our personal wellness but also that of the planet. With your participation, families are nourished and our community strengthened. It is as simple as that. Whether you have never cooked before, or feel confident in your skills, there is a place for you at Teen Kitchen Project. We will find the right job for your skill level and give you the opportunity to learn more. We are serving food to nourish families who need support, so the energy and intention as we work in the kitchen is really important for the healing potential of the meals. We expect everyone to focus on the positive intent of putting healing energy, nourishment and love into the food. Teens are asked to commit to at least one three-hour session per week for a minimum of 12 weeks. On most days we finish before 7:00 p.m., so the latest you may arrive is 4:00 p.m. A Teen Kitchen Project Teen: 1. Works as part of a unified team. 2. Takes responsibility. 3. Keeps their energy positive and enthusiastic. 4. Honors commitments. 5. Is caring and welcoming to all. 6. Puts passion and love into the food. 7. Looks for what is needed and does it! Teen chefs will be given the opportunity to grow by learning new cooking techniques, new ways of eating, and by collaborating with others to create meals for those in need. Volunteers are needed in Watsonville and Santa Cruz! Get Involved...Select the Red "Express Interest" button below **This is a Referral Opportunity, which means it is run directly by one of our nonprofit partners. Once you express interest, someone from the partner organization should follow up with you shortly to discuss confirming you as a volunteer for this opportunity.

Soquel, CA

Through9/5/20

WomenCARE provides emotional and practical support to women with any type of cancer, and their loved ones. We need someone to assist the Event Chair with our annual event, Strike Out Against Cancer bowling fundraiser. Duties will be dependent on skill set and interest but may include any of the following: -Team development -Raffle and Silent Auction item follow-up -Follow up calls to bowlers -Advertising on event calendars and social media -Mailing bowling packets -Data entry -Distributing posters and flyers around Santa Cruz County -Community outreach This event is our biggest fundraiser of the year and is VERY important to keep our program's door's open so we can continue to provide cancer support services free of charge. Flexible days/times during: Monday & Wednesday 10am - 1pm; Tuesday & Thursday 1pm - 5pm (if working in-office). Work that is done outside of office (picking up raffle items, distributing flyers, outreach, etc) can be done when convenient (as long as deadlines are met). Depending on the tasks assigned, we would like someone who is comfortable speaking to others in person and on the phone, has a working knowledge of computers, can work independently once they are trained to do specific tasks. You will gain event planning experience, professional growth, and have the opportunity to work with a wonderful program and fun people! http://strikeoutagainstcancer.org/

Soquel, CA

Through5/31/20

Do you love music? You can help our elderly participants rediscover music from their past! Everyone loves listening to their favorite songs and we have a program that our participants love. We build custom music lists based on their preferences and give them an ipod shuffle to enjoy. Research shows that listening to music helps older people to retain their memory. We need a volunteer who can interview people and their family members to find out what types of music they like and then build playlists. The schedule is very flexible - come in any day Monday - Friday between 10am and 2pm. If you love seeing people smile when they hear their favorite song - this project is for you! Get Involved...Select the Red Express Interest button below **This is a Referral Opportunity, which means it is run directly by one of our nonprofit partners. Once you express interest, someone from the partner organization should follow up with you shortly to discuss confirming you as a volunteer for this opportunity.

Santa Cruz, CA

Through1/31/20

Do you enjoy the arts? Do you enjoy sharing your passion for art with others? Share your talents with Elderday! We welcome volunteers who can share their skills with elderly participants. Volunteers are needed to lead a small group of about 6 people in music, singing, dance, painting, clay, quilting, sewing, knitting, crafts, photography, poetry reading or writing, theater or any other creative endeavor! Elderday Adult Day Health Center is dedicated to providing quality care for elderly adults needing help with daily living tasks and individuals with Alzheimer's and related conditions. We have a fun and engaging atmosphere and offer a wide variety of activities. Our participants are a diverse group and whatever interests you, there will be at least a few people that want to participate. About 50% of our participants speak Spanish and all of our staff are bilingual so Spanish speaking volunteers are a plus (but not required). Whatever you enjoy we want you to come and share! Most volunteers lead small groups once a week or once a month. The schedule is very flexible! Volunteers can volunteer any time between 10am and 2:30pm. Get Involved...Select the Red Express Interest button below **This is a Referral Opportunity, which means it is run directly by one of our nonprofit partners. Once you express interest, someone from the partner organization should follow up with you shortly to discuss confirming you as a volunteer for this opportunity.

Santa Cruz, CA

Through1/31/20