Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County

- Kitchen Assistant - Help our experienced kitchen team prepare 100-120 lunches which we provide at no-cost to our guests every weekday; - Pantry Assistant - Speak with guests about their grocery wants/needs and help bag/box items;must be able to communicate in English/Spanish to be able to provide groceries to or check-in our guests); and or a - Food Inventory Assistant - Help prepare grocery bags and boxes for guests and restock items, as well as support staff in accepting deliveries and donations; must be comfortable moving heavy items, which can be up to 50lbs.

Watsonville, CA

9/29/20 9:00 AM + more

Volunteers needed at the joint federal, state and local Recovery Resource Center (RRC) to help residents impacted by the CZU Lighting Complex fire connect with the resources needed to recover and rebuild. Volunteers are needed to ensure that all visitors to the Recovery Resource Center are able to access resources while maintaining COVID-19 physical distancing requirements. Volunteer tasks include: assist with COVID screening at the entrance (ensuring that everyone fills out the visitor sheet and takes their temperature using a "no-touch" device) count people as they enter or exit the building to ensure that maximum occupancy is not exceeded greet visitors and assist people in finding the resources they need

Santa Cruz, CA

9/29/20 1:30 PM + more

Help with laundry for community members experiencing homelessness! We do as many as 60 loads. It's fast and furious and fun. Tuesdays, 8pm-11pm Here's a video of our livestream event to learn more about the programs and donate. The coming seasons will see a drastic drop in our ability to raise funding through grants and local donations. PLEASE READ THESE SAFETY TIPS FOR VOLUNTEERING DURING THE PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY

Santa Cruz, CA

9/29/20 8:00 PM + more

Warming Center Program is committed to people who sleep outside and are in desperate need of storage for their bedding and personal belongings. We believe the experience of people lugging piles of belongings around, hiding them in various areas and often having them confiscated or stolen is an issue that affects every city resident. We need one person to assist our clerk with checking storage in and out on Wednesday evenings. This includes greeting clients, pulling storage bins, and using a basic computer spreadsheet. Masks, gloves, and isopropyl hand spray are provided, and safety guidelines are in effect. PLEASE READ THESE SAFETY TIPS FOR VOLUNTEERING DURING THE PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY 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

9/30/20 5:00 PM + more

​Friday morning food distribution at Our Lady of the Assumption Church in Pajaro. The School Lunch program operates Monday - Thursday and Pajaro Valley Prevention and Student Assistance is providing food distribution to families on Fridays so they have food over the weekend. Volunteers are needed to help us meet the growing demand from families. Volunteers are needed to help with handing out bags to people who do not have cars and to help with directing cars on how to enter and exit the parking lot and line up for maximum efficiency. Volunteers who are bilingual in English and Spanish are especially needed - but you do not have to speak Spanish to help. Physical Distancing and Volunteer Safety: If you have your own face mask please bring it Volunteers will be given a facemask if they need it Gloves and safety vest are provided Tables and markers on the ground direct people how to maintain physical distance Most food recipients will stay in their car Please Sign Up below for the day you want to volunteer. PLEASE READ THESE SAFETY TIPS FOR VOLUNTEERING DURING THE PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY

Pajaro, CA

10/2/20 8:30 AM + more

Assist the Warming Center team in providing hot, 20 minute showers and helping clients access our other programs while they are on site. Sundays, 11am-3pm Here's a video of our livestream event to learn more about the programs and donate. The coming seasons will see a drastic drop in our ability to raise funding through grants and local donations. PLEASE READ THESE SAFETY TIPS FOR VOLUNTEERING DURING THE PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY

Santa Cruz, CA

10/4/20 11:00 AM + more

Live Oak Community Resources' mission is to build a safe place for the Live Oak community to access resources. Tasks for the distribution include distributing food bags, taking down the names of those who are receiving food, and directing cars to the correct location. The distribution will be organized as a drive-through. Gloves and hand sanitizer will be provided. We have a limited number of masks so please bring your own if you have one. Distributions will happen twice a month so if you can't make it this time, reach out for more opportunities! PLEASE READ THESE SAFETY TIPS FOR VOLUNTEERING DURING THE PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY

Santa Cruz, CA

10/12/20 4:30 PM + more

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

Through 11/30/20

Create Art with Seniors Ageless Art Project volunteers are Artists and Crafts people who lead small groups of senior residents in care facilities to create art. Volunteers share their skills and artistic talent in a variety of mediums. Additionally, volunteers have the pleasure of seeing care facility residents experience an awakening of spirit, pride, and self-worth. It is this spark of positive feelings that both the volunteers and residents receive. Ageless Art Project: • Artist volunteers lead regularly scheduled art classes using various kinds of media • Artists give ongoing support and make creative expression a positive experience • Regular exhibitions of seniors’ artwork are displayed throughout Santa Cruz County. A program of I-YOU Venture, Family Service Agency of the Central Coast For more information contact: Ageless Art Project :: (831) 459 8917 x208 medina.a@fsa-cc.org :: www.fsa-cc.org/ageless-art-program 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

Through 10/1/20

Are you 55 +? This opportunity: RSVP volunteers are needed to help assemble these much needed food bags in many of our partner agencies throughout the tri county area a couple of mornings a week. Be a part of the solution to hunger by joining a team of dedicated staff and volunteers who come together to pack and deliver food bags to seniors in need! RSVP volunteers, aged 55+, choose how, where, and how often they want to serve, with commitments usually just a few hours per week. They can choose opportunities that best fit their active lifestyles and use skills they have honed through their life and job experience – or try their hand at something completely new and different! RSVP volunteers benefit because they feel productive in their community, as well as having the satisfaction of making a difference. All RSVP volunteers receive membership in the national RSVP program; personalized recruitment effort targeted toward finding just the right volunteer opportunity; additional liability, personal injury, and excess automobile coverage; an annual recognition event; a quarterly newsletter; and travel reimbursement. Being a part of the RSVP movement means that more of the collective power of those 55+ making a difference in our local communities can be recognized on a national level! Contact us to hear more about this and other opportunities and to become an RSVP member! The Monterey Bay RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program) has served Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz Counties for 40 years as a part of the Corporation for National and Community Service. Get Involved...Select the Red "Express Interest" button below

Santa Cruz, CA

Through 12/31/20

Are you 55 +? Make a difference in your communities with Monterey Bay RSVP delivering Healthy Essentials meals to those in need! Be an RSVP hero, helping to assure healthy futures for seniors and others through providing nutritious food for our neighbors. RSVP volunteers are needed as drivers in this essential function with our partner agencies throughout the tri county area with commitments typically just a few hours one or two days a week. RSVP volunteers, aged 55+, choose how, where, and how often they want to serve, with commitments usually just a few hours per week. They can choose opportunities that best fit their active lifestyles and use skills they have honed through their life and job experience – or try their hand at something completely new and different! RSVP volunteers benefit because they feel productive in their community, as well as having the satisfaction of making a difference. All RSVP volunteers receive membership in the national RSVP program; personalized recruitment effort targeted toward finding just the right volunteer opportunity; additional liability, personal injury, and excess automobile coverage; an annual recognition event; a quarterly newsletter; and travel reimbursement. Being a part of the RSVP movement means that more of the collective power of those 55+ making a difference in our local communities can be recognized on a national level! Contact us to hear more about this and other opportunities and to become an RSVP member! Get Involved...Select the Red "Express Interest" button below

Santa Cruz, CA

Through 12/31/20

Help our young non-profit report our successes and seek needed funding by entering contact and demographic information of the people we are serving. As a volunteer, you will enter data from hardcopy to excel spreadsheets and eventually to a new database. We are working to document the great work we are teaching local kids and families about organic farming and nutrition. As we develop documentation, we are collecting a large amount of data that will tell an excellent story once it is recorded allowing us to seek much-needed grant funding. This is a "Virtual Volunteer Project" that you complete at home using your own computer. Volunteers may work anytime between 9am-5pm (Monday-Friday). Volunteers need to have basic computer skills, be meticulous, and resourceful. 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.

Watsonville, CA

Through 10/31/21

Join the RSVP movement! Are you 55 +? Why explore volunteer opportunities with RSVP? RSVP volunteers, aged 55+, choose how, where, and how often they want to serve, with commitments usually just a few hours per week. They can choose opportunities that best fit their active lifestyles and use skills they have honed through their life and job experience - or try their hand at something completely new and different! RSVP volunteers benefit because they feel productive in their community, as well as having the satisfaction of making a difference. RSVP is a national program, part of the Corporation for National and Community Service, administered through the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County. Joining your friends and neighbors in the RSVP movement means that more of the collective power of those 55+ making a difference in local communities through volunteerism can be recognized on a national level! Benefits offered by RSVP include placements and referrals to 120 non-profit agencies; liability, personal injury, and excess automobile coverage; an annual recognition event; a quarterly newsletter; and travel reimbursement. Contact us to hear more about our current opportunities and join our team! Email: rsvp2@scvolunteercenter.org Get Involved...Select the Red "Express Interest" button below

Santa Cruz, CA

Through 12/31/20

Help us manage the Save Our Shores donor database! The volunteer will need to spend a few hours each week (2-3) here at the Save Our Shores office. Training and support in using the database will be provided. Experience using a relational database is helpful. Volunteers are expected to come into the office once a week to stay up on entering data. We have flexible hours for volunteers outside of regular business hours. We will work with you to find the right time. Volunteers are an important part of our team, are absolutely essential to the continuance of our work to protect our ocean and planet, and are embraced as a crucial part of our vibrant community. Volunteers are invited to attend all Save Our Shores community events! Please feel free to call or text Rod at 831-359-1900 for more information. 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

Through 10/1/20

Help create a generation of empowered skillful young cyclists! Volunteers for the Bike Smart Youth Bicycle Safety Program will be assisting elementary and middle school youth learn about bike safety. We set up a bicycle safety skills obstacle course, called a "rodeo" and bring bikes for the students to ride. We also fit helmets and guide the students through different stations in the obstacle course. This is a fun, active and outdoor activity! In the ten years that BikeSmart has been active, we have provided hands-on bike safety training to over 18,000 youth in Santa Cruz County. We aim at creating a safe and fun learning environment for young cyclist of all skill levels. Bike Smart operates during the school year and school hours, and volunteers are always needed. We encourage volunteers to commit to a minimum of 2 hours per month. 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

Through 10/1/20

Join RSVP Today. Are you 55+? Love meeting and greeting and helping people? Volunteers are needed to meet and greet veterans who are coming in to the office for services. Skills and duties are: to be pleasant, to answer phones, to help folks get where they are needing to go, and to do light office work. If you love meeting people and helping veterans, this volunteer opportunity is for you! Shifts can work around your schedule but are typically one or two mornings or afternoons per week. The Monterey Bay RSVP program has served Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz Counties for 40 years, and is designed to meet the critical needs in the community by fostering volunteerism by persons age 55 and over. RSVP provides a critical link between folks in the community and our partner non profit agencies, and then highlights the tremendous impact that folks like you are making in our community by reporting their volunteer hours at a national level. RSVP promotes the true story of baby boomers as the active contributing members of their community that they are! Being a part of the RSVP movement means that more of the collective power of those 55+ making a difference in our local communities can be recognized on a national level! All RSVP volunteers receive membership in the national RSVP program; personalized recruitment effort targeted toward finding just the right volunteer opportunity; additional liability, personal injury, and excess automobile coverage; an annual recognition event; a quarterly newsletter; and possible travel reimbursement. Contact us and let's chat!

Capitola, CA

Through 12/31/20

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY COMMISSION ON DISABILITIES INTERNSHIP DESCRIPTION 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 Commission on Disabilities was established in 1979 by the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors to promote the interests and address the specific needs of people with disabilities through community organization, advocacy, and education and advises the Board of Supervisors on policies, legislation, and issues affecting people with disabilities. The Intern will work with County Staff and Commissioners to create a comprehensive history of the Commission, including activities, membership, leadership, recommendations, and legislative and community impact. The history will eventually be presented in a variety of visually appealing and easily accessible formats. Key Responsibilities Include: • Develop a work plan with County Staff containing outcomes, tasks, benchmarks, resources, and a timeline for completion. • Research County and other available records to collect Commission history information • Organize, analyze and prioritize information (with Commissioners/County Staff) for presentation. • Develop interesting, creative, accessible ways to display historical data in a variety of spaces (mobile display for community events and impactful Commission history for website). Desired Intern Characteristics: The ideal candidate would possess the following characteristics: • Coursework in and/or experience with research methods, data collection and analysis • Organization, accuracy and time management skills • Creativity and an interest in visual representation of historical data in digital & physical spaces • Interest in public policy and advancing the interests of people with disabilities • Collaborative work style with the ability to take direction as well as initiative when appropriate • Ability to perform essential tasks and functions related to the expected outcomes, work products and knowledge described herein • Proficiency with Microsoft Office software, graphic arts software and current business technology Special Considerations: Because this internship is with a County government agency, candidate must be able and willing to conduct themselves in a manner that best represents the Commission and the County during outreach efforts and interactions Minimum required hours: 16 hours per week for five weeks or 8 hours per week for 10 weeks 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

Through 11/1/20

I-You Venture is seeking individuals to visit seniors living in care facilities. Studies have shown 59 percent of residents that are placed in care facilities aren’t visited by family or friends. As a volunteer, you can help reduce the isolation and loneliness that many residents face every day. I-You Venture volunteers help residents overcome this isolation by introducing the community to them and letting them know someone cares! Friendly Visitor volunteers: Visit isolated seniors Assist with arts and crafts Assist with board games, puzzles and bingo Share the joy of music Share life history and memories Read to seniors Help brighten a senior’s day by sharing your time and interests with them! Who Can Be A Friendly Visitor? Volunteers should have a sincere interest in making a difference in the life of an older person. We would like volunteers to ideally commit for a period of six months. 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

Through 2/28/21

Are you interested in helping reduce falls among older adults? We invite you to join our team and become a workshop coach for Matter of Balance classes. What is a Matter of Balance Coach? A Coach co-leads the Matter of Balance class sessions with another Coach. Two Coaches are required to teach the class to participants. What qualities and experience are necessary to become a Coach? Good communication and interpersonal skills Enthusiasm Dependability Willingness to lead a small group Interest in working with older adults Life experiences are valued, with education or healthcare experience a plus Ability to perform range of motion and low-level endurance exercises Ability to carry up to 20 pounds How do you become a Coach? Attend eight hours of Coach training taught by the Master Trainer(s) and earn A Matter of Balance Coach Certification Attend 2.5 hours of Coach training updates annually Agree to coach two Matter of Balance classes within one year of certification What are the Coach's responsibilities? Prepare for each class by reviewing the Matter of Balance manual and materials Organize the classroom with supplies and refreshments Present the class according to the directions, training and materials provided Encourage interactive discussion about the concepts and skills presented Demonstrate and coach the exercises outlined in the Matter of Balance Program Monitor and connect with each participant Promote socialization and a solution-oriented environment among the participants Have fun! Get Involved...Select the Red "Express Interest" button below

Santa Cruz, CA

Through 11/1/20

Hopes Closet of Santa Cruz is looking for dedicated and friendly individuals to help sort children's clothing, toys, shoes, books, and equipment. Volunteers will also be helping with recycling. The mission of Hopes Closet is to provide gently used clothing and necessities to children and families in need. Each child receives a Bundle of Hope containing clothing, shoes and age-appropriate books and toys. Our goal is to provide these items in a dignified manner. Volunteers make it possible for Hopes Closet to reach our targeted community: Foster children, family shelters, Early Head Start, public health nurses, social workers, local hospitals, Pregnancy Resource Center, Siena House, Janus Perinatal, Center for Farmworker Families, and more. Volunteer times vary - Monday through Friday 10:00-4:00. Training and Orientation is required and is provided by appointment 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

Through 10/31/20

The best kept secret in San Lorenzo Valley is the Mountain Parks Foundation Nature Store located in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, Felton, CA. Mountain Parks Foundation Nature Store is in need of volunteers who would like to work in our store. It is a great place to volunteer. We get visitors from all over the world interested in experiencing our wonderful redwoods and hiking trails. Living in this area, we forget how magnificent these giant trees are. We have a great group of people who volunteer here and really enjoy sharing this oasis with our visitors. The Nature Store is one way Mountain Parks Foundation, a non-profit organization, raises money to help fund activities for visitors’ to enrich their experiences at Henry Cowell and Big Basin Redwoods State Parks. These activities help visitors’ to expand their knowledge and appreciation of our natural environment and cultural heritage. Nature Store is open daily with morning and afternoon shifts. Our times vary throughout the different seasons. The shifts are 3-4 hours at a time. Required Skills: Computer proficiency, as volunteers at the store use a Point of Sale system. Volunteers must enjoy people, able to problem-solve and work independently, be mobile, and be able to lift at least 10 lbs easily. Prior retail experience is a plus but not required. 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.

Felton, CA

Through 2/1/21

Are you 55 +? This opportunity: Make a difference in your communities with Monterey Bay RSVP helping out in our Senior Centers! Be an RSVP hero, helping to assure healthy futures for seniors by sharing your time and talent. RSVP volunteers are needed in local Senior Centers to share a hobby, help run activites and serve meals, or even utilize cooking skills in this essential function with our partner agencies throughout the tri county area - Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Salinas, .... Commitments are typically just a few hours one or two days a week, working around your schedule. Monterey Bay RSVP volunteers, aged 55+, choose how, where, and how often they want to serve, with commitments usually just a few hours per week. They can choose opportunities that best fit their active lifestyles and use skills they have honed through their life and job experience – or try their hand at something completely new and different! RSVP volunteers benefit because they feel productive in their community, as well as having the satisfaction of making a difference. Join RSVP Today. Volunteers 55+ receive membership in the national RSVP program; personalized recruitment effort targeted toward finding just the right volunteer opportunity; additional liability, personal injury, and excess automobile coverage; an annual recognition event; a quarterly newsletter; and possible travel reimbursement. Being a part of the RSVP movement means that more of the collective power of those 55+ making a difference in our local communities can be recognized on a national level! Contact us to hear more about this and other opportunities and to become an RSVP member!

Santa Cruz, CA

Through 12/31/20

Are you 55 +? This opportunity: Make a difference in your communities with Monterey Bay RSVP being a docent in one of our local museums or parks! Be an RSVP hero, sharing your time and talent, helping to educate visitors about our local treasures and learn something new yourself along the way! RSVP volunteers are needed in this essential function with our partner agencies throughout the tri county area - Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Benito Counties. Commitments are typically just a few hours one or two days a week, working around your schedule. Monterey Bay RSVP volunteers, aged 55+, choose how, where, and how often they want to serve, with commitments usually just a few hours per week. They can choose opportunities that best fit their active lifestyles and use skills they have honed through their life and job experience – or try their hand at something completely new and different! RSVP volunteers benefit because they feel productive in their community, as well as having the satisfaction of making a difference. Join RSVP Today. Volunteers 55+ receive membership in the national RSVP program; personalized recruitment effort targeted toward finding just the right volunteer opportunity; additional liability, personal injury, and excess automobile coverage; an annual recognition event; a quarterly newsletter; and possible travel reimbursement. Being a part of the RSVP movement means that more of the collective power of those 55+ making a difference in our local communities can be recognized on a national level! Contact us to hear more about this and other opportunities and to become an RSVP member!

Santa Cruz, CA

Through 12/31/20

Are you 55 +? This opportunity: Make a difference in your communities with Monterey Bay RSVP helping out in our local non-profit Gift Stores! Be an RSVP hero, helping to create value for these great causes by sharing your time and talent. RSVP volunteers are needed in local non-profit Gift Stores to assist at the register, restock merchandise, help with product display, and more in this essential function with our partner agencies throughout the tri county area - Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Salinas, .... Commitments are typically just a few hours one or two days a week, working around your schedule. Monterey Bay RSVP volunteers, aged 55+, choose how, where, and how often they want to serve, with commitments usually just a few hours per week. They can choose opportunities that best fit their active lifestyles and use skills they have honed through their life and job experience – or try their hand at something completely new and different! RSVP volunteers benefit because they feel productive in their community, as well as having the satisfaction of making a difference. Join RSVP Today. Volunteers 55+ receive membership in the national RSVP program; personalized recruitment effort targeted toward finding just the right volunteer opportunity; additional liability, personal injury, and excess automobile coverage; an annual recognition event; a quarterly newsletter; and possible travel reimbursement. Being a part of the RSVP movement means that more of the collective power of those 55+ making a difference in our local communities can be recognized on a national level! Contact us to hear more about this and other opportunities and to become an RSVP member!

Santa Cruz, CA

Through 12/31/20

You can make a lasting difference in the life of a child in foster care! Apply to be a Court Appointed Special Advocate! As a CASA, you will: ​ Investigate the needs of the child by familiarizing yourself with their welfare file Advocate for the child’s needs to be met promptly and thoroughly. Generally serve as a trusted & consistent source of support for the child! In a sea of ever-changing faces, the CASA volunteer is the one person the child knows will keep coming back, each and every week. No other program combines regular mentoring and preventive services with the comprehensive advocacy that influences decisions directly affecting the child’s future. Steps to become a CASA: Attend an informational meeting Interview at the Watsonville office Submit paperwork/application Partake in advocate training *must be 21 years of age to apply* Volunteer information meetings are currently being held online via Zoom. Sign up at: casaofsantacruz.org/signup PLEASE READ THESE SAFETY TIPS FOR VOLUNTEERING DURING THE PUBLIC HEALTH EMERGENCY 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.

Watsonville, CA

Through 10/1/20

Volunteer Opportunity: Outreach in Monterey County to inform folks 55+ of the volunteer opportunities available through the Monterey Bay RSVP Program. Find the perfect volunteer fit - Monterey Bay RSVP Volunteer Matchmaking is at the Oldemeyer Center in Seaside from 9-1 on the 2nd and last Fridays of every month! Help spread the word in Monterey County to get more folks 55+ there involved in volunteerism in the local non-profits. RSVP volunteers, aged 55+, choose how, where, and how often they want to serve, with commitments usually just a few hours per week. They can choose opportunities that best fit their active lifestyles and use skills they have honed through their life and job experience – or try their hand at something completely new and different! RSVP volunteers benefit because they feel productive in their community, as well as having the satisfaction of making a difference. All RSVP volunteers receive membership in the national RSVP program; personalized recruitment effort targeted toward finding just the right volunteer opportunity; additional liability, personal injury, and excess automobile coverage; an annual recognition event; a quarterly newsletter; and travel reimbursement. Being a part of the RSVP movement means that more of the collective power of those 55+ making a difference in our local communities can be recognized on a national level! Contact us to hear more about this volunteer opportunity with flexible hours. The Monterey Bay RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program) has served Monterey, San Benito, and Santa Cruz Counties for 40 years as a part of the Corporation for National and Community Service.

Moss Landing, CA

Through 12/31/20

Volunteering with LOARC is a great way to help individuals reach their goal of riding a horse! The atmosphere is fun, positive, and supportive. You also can get some fresh air, exercise, and play with our horses! Horses provide a unique opportunity for those who may be struggling physically, mentally, or emotionally. Our volunteers will assist in providing a safe and enjoyable experience for our riders. Volunteer duties include brushing and saddling the horse for a lesson. Leading the horse or walking next to the rider during the lesson. Other barn and administrative help are needed for the individual that may not want to work directly with the horses and riders. LOARC would appreciate a commitment of once a week for 8 weeks. Each lesson typically lasts an hour. Volunteers are welcomed to participate for more than the 8 weeks if they choose. Lessons may also be scheduled back to back in which case the volunteer could spend several hours at the barn if they would like. 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.

Felton, CA

Through 1/1/21

Receptionist needed once a week at busy Volunteer Center The Volunteer Center is seeking friendly, personable and organized volunteers to assist the office manager with the following duties: Answering inbound calls Meeting and greeting Volunteer Center clients and direct them to the proper department Assisting with mailings and other administrative duties, as needed Assisting with office and facility scheduling Collaborating on event planning Collecting press clipping and organizing the media binder Opening mail and assisting with mail distribution How Will The Volunteer Make A Difference in The Community? The Volunteer Center is dedicated to transforming our community and ourselves through volunteerism and empowering everyone to be the difference. We operate 22 community based programs that deliver critical services to people in need, and additionally refer prospective volunteers looking for positions to nonprofit agencies across Santa Cruz. As a volunteer office assistant, your support is vital in helping our organization meet our mission and connecting people with meaningful service opportunities in our community. Shift days, times, and the expected time commitment: We have two shifts daily, Monday - Friday: Mornings from 9am to 1pm (or 12pm) Afternoons from 1pm to 5pm (or 4pm) We ask volunteers to commit to 2 shifts per month for 3 months. Training or orientation required: Initial orientation and training will be offered on an ongoing basis. Volunteer Qualifications: Friendly and personable; Punctual and able to commit to a minimum of 1 consistent shift per week; Able to multitask; Patient and persistent; Office experience is a plus, but we are willing to train and develop your office skills. We also welcome retired volunteers! Minimum Age For Volunteers: 16 Volunteer Benefits: The Volunteer Center is a very friendly environment with warm staff. Our office manager Jan will be devoted to supporting your professional development with ongoing training and mentoring. This is a busy office and will provide the volunteer with excellent experience as a receptionist and office assistant. Past volunteers have gained valuable experience that has helped them land jobs in the community. We also welcome retired or skilled volunteers! Location of the Volunteer Opportunity: Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County, 1740 17th Ave Santa Cruz 95062 Get Involved...Schedule a time to come learn more about in This Opportunity: You can also contact: Volunteer Supervisor: Jan Brady Phone Contact: (831)427-5070

Santa Cruz, CA

Through 6/30/21

Are you 55 +? This opportunity: Make a difference in your communities with Monterey Bay RSVP helping to provide free income tax assistance for low-income individuals! Be an RSVP hero as our partner agency ramps up for the tax season. Training is provided, along with a training guide and written test booklet, so you'll have everything you need to assist folks with their income tax preparations in this essential function with our partner agency in several locations throughout Santa Cruz and Watsonville. Commitments are typically just a few hours one or two days a week, working around your schedule. Monterey Bay RSVP volunteers, aged 55+, choose how, where, and how often they want to serve, with commitments usually just a few hours per week. They can choose opportunities that best fit their active lifestyles and use skills they have honed through their life and job experience – or try their hand at something completely new and different! RSVP volunteers benefit because they feel productive in their community, as well as having the satisfaction of making a difference. Join RSVP Today. Volunteers 55+ receive membership in the national RSVP program; personalized recruitment effort targeted toward finding just the right volunteer opportunity; additional liability, personal injury, and excess automobile coverage; an annual recognition event; a quarterly newsletter; and possible travel reimbursement. Being a part of the RSVP movement means that more of the collective power of those 55+ making a difference in our local communities can be recognized on a national level! Contact us to hear more about this and other opportunities and to become an RSVP member!

Through 12/31/20

We are looking for good families to volunteer to have an international teen become part of their family and share their culture. Greenheart Exchange (www.greenheartexchange.org) has students from all over the world coming to California for either short term summer stays or for the full high school year and we need loving families to host them. Families can be made up of all sorts of different people……….people with young children, empty nesters, single parents, large families, even single people. Students come with their own spending money, health/accident insurance, good grades and English skills and the willingness to share about their country and culture with Americans while learning about our culture. Host families offer a warm and loving environment and the willingness to share their lives with their student. More questions? www.hostwithgreenheart.org Gloria Carruthers Greenheart.gloria@gmail.com 831-214-3711

Through 10/1/20