Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County

The St. Francis Soup Kitchen has been serving meals to the hungry in Santa Cruz for over 25 years! Each day a hearty meal of soup, salad, bread, coffee and milk are served to over 180 people at noon. There are an estimated 400 people who sleep outside in Santa Cruz and it’s difficult for one agency to handle all their needs. The Kitchen is one place where those in need will find a kind welcome, food and an opportunity to rest in safety. Please join us by volunteering in our kitchen cooking, serving or both. We can accommodate up to four volunteers every day. No special experience required, just a desire to work in the kitchen. **Please wear closed toed shoes! We begin cooking at 8:30 AM and finish serving the meal at 1:45 PM. We need volunteers Monday through Friday, but we are especially looking for people to prep (8:30 to 12) and serve (12 - 1:45) on Wednesdays and Thursdays. We are also looking for a volunteer who wants to assist the chef on Thursdays from 8:30 am to 12 pm. Who can eat? All in need regardless of race, creed, color or sex. When are meals served? A midday meal is served Monday thru Friday from 12:00 to 1:00. What is served? Each day a different soup is served in addition to the salad, fruit, bread and milk. A wholesome variety of filling soup and homemade salad dressings help to create a complete meal. Desserts are also served when available. What other services are available? Showers are available daily from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Clothing is distributed on Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Shirts, pants, socks, outerwear and clothing are available to our guests. Our guests. St. Francis Catholic Kitchen considers those who eat with us our guests. Our volunteers quickly learn that being homeless or on the streets is a serious challenge. We hope that, for at least part of the day, they can feel appreciated when they walk through the doors of the Kitchen.

Santa Cruz, CA

7/23/19 8:30 AM +more

Our farm is a place where people of all abilities can learn new skills, strengthen their social networks, and contribute valued products to our local economy. We offer horticulture and farm skills training, internships to people with developmental disabilities, environmental and gardening education, and micro-enterprise opportunities on a roughly four-acre urban, organic farm in Santa Cruz, CA. Volunteers are involved in every aspect of our operations. Sign up now to join us on a Tuesday morning. Every week we tackle new aspects of our expanding farm. A few things before you come out to the farm: We highly recommend a hat and a water bottle Everyone is required to sign a liability waiver Most areas of our farm are accessible by wheelchair and a walker. If you have any mobility concerns and would like more information, please reach out Only trained service animals are allowed on the farm All volunteer roles positions will receive an orientation to the farm the first 30-45 minutes of their first time at the farm and must sign a waiver prior to participating in volunteering.

Santa Cruz, CA

7/23/19 10:00 AM +more

The Big Brothers Big Sisters After-School Enrichment Program is looking for guest volunteers to lead the children in a variety of enrichment activities. The program is offered Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 3:30—5:30pm at two low-income housing facilities in south Santa Cruz County. During the first hour mentors assist the children with their homework in the areas of math, science, social studies and writing. For the second hour a guest volunteer engages the children in a wide variety of enriching activities such as science experiments, arts and crafts, outdoor fitness games, musical exploration or addresses topics important to the students' social, academic, and leadership development. The list of enrichment activities is endless so if you have a special skill set, idea, hobby or knowledge base please sign up to be an After-School Program guest volunteer and help broaden these children’s horizon! The children range from K-6 grades. 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.

Capitola, CA

7/23/19 3:30 PM +more

The Homeless Garden Project provides job training, transitional employment and support services to people who are experiencing homelessness. HGP's vibrant education and volunteer program for the broad community blends formal, experiential and service-learning. The programs take place in our 3-acre organic farm and related enterprises. On the farm you will meet the crew, learn more about the farm, and join that day's activities which may include: weeding, harvest, planting, building compost and more. Projects are weather dependent and defined by the day's priorities. We often can't tell you exactly what project you'll be working on in advance. Thursdays & Fridays: Arrive at 10am, join our crew for morning stretch and delegation of tasks for the day. Stay until 2pm or leave anytime in between. Lunch is included and served at 12pm. Saturdays & Sundays: Arrive any time, join our weekend farm staff and volunteers in a variety of farm tasks. Stay until 2pm or leave anytime in between.

Santa Cruz, CA

7/25/19 10:00 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 Thursday 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

7/25/19 1:00 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. Join us for a morning of restoration and beautification at Evergreen Cemetery on Make A Difference Day, October 28th from 9:30am to 12pm. 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 cloths 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

7/26/19 9:30 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

7/26/19 11:00 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

7/26/19 11:00 AM +more

Help visitors with hands-on art projects! Every week there's a new project! Events are typically Saturdays from 10 am to 1:30 pm; Saturdays from 10 am to 2 pm and Fridays from 4:30 pm to 8 pm Upcoming events include: Glow in the Dark Yoga, Bird Fun Fest, Doggo Dreamland, Candlelit yoga, Sunprint Sunday, Mini Basket Making, Slime Time, Magic & Movement and Strawberry Festival Lead family-friendly activities that get folks moving and inspire creativity. Think fort building, bubble making, dance parties, and more! Learn new skills, make new friends, and leave a lasting impact on your community. Training will be provided at the event. You can sign up for a specific shift -- and learn more about all the upcoming events at the Museum of Art and History Eventbrite page here: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/volunteers-at-the-santa-cruz-museum-of-art-amp-history-14444764478

Santa Cruz, CA

7/26/19 5:30 PM +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 Yesenia 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

7/27/19 9:00 AM +more

Hello Future Friends, We are looking for weekend hosts at our Friends Downtown Santa Cruz Library bookstore. If you would like to host you will learn to use a square system to receive payments as well as manage a small bookstore while you are here. Shifts available: Saturdays 10am to 1pm Saturdays 1pm to 4pm Sundays 1pm to 4pm If you want to speak directly please email mary@fscpl.org 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

7/27/19 10:00 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

7/27/19 12:30 PM +more

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

7/29/19 9:00 AM +more

Create an exciting experience at the biggest stop along the Santa Cruz First Friday Art Tour. Bring three floors of free exhibitions (including a brand new one), an art activity, and musical performance to life as MAH volunteer. Tour and food included. Art Activity Helper | 4:30 - 7 pm OR 6:30 - 9 pm Celebrate Dia de los Muertos by helping to lead a sugar skull decorating and tissue paper flower making art activity. Sugar skulls are an integral part of Day of the Dead and honor those who've passed away. Help families connect with their histories and loved ones as an Art Activity Helper. Gallery Helper | 4:30 - 7 pm OR 6:30 - 9 pm Welcome visitors into three floors of free exhibition space. From a new photography exhibition surrounding themes of displacement and immigration to a kaleidoscopic installation of queer and feminist art, you'll bring new life to dynamic spaces. Answer visitors' quesetions and ask a few yourself. No experience necessary! We'll make sure you've got all the info you need for a great experience. Month-specific activity volunteers | Varies Sign up directly for the shift you want on the Santa Cruz MAH Eventbright page here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/first-friday-festival-volunteer-with-the-mah-tickets-63409640943?aff 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

8/2/19 4:30 PM +more

Become a Literacy Tutor!! Attend a Volunteer Orientation! The Literacy Program of Santa Cruz is looking for dedicated individuals to help community members learn English. This can help them get a better job, be able to talk to their children's teachers, and be able to get help in an emergency. Volunteer tutors are trained and matched with adult students who have strong desires to learn the English language. You can tutor at your student's home, a library, a coffee shop or other community location. The FIRST step to becoming a Literacy Tutor is to attend a mandatory one hour Orientation. ORIENTATION DATES (only need to attend ONE) Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County, 1740 17th Avenue: Saturday, August 3rd from 10-11AM Wednesday, August 7th from 6-7PM Tuesday, September 10th from 10-11AM Saturday, September 21st from 10-11AM Get Involved....Sign Up for This Opportunity by selecting the date you'd like to attend and using the "SIGN UP" button. You can also contact the Literacy Program of Santa Cruz County at (831) 427.5077. Website or link for further information: www.literacysantacruz.org

Santa Cruz, CA

8/3/19 10:00 AM +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 Express Interest 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

8/3/19 10:00 AM +more

Volunteers are needed to table at different events and share information about the census: why it is important, what the economic impact of under counts mean, signups for volunteers etc. Short trainings will be provided to help educate tablers on the census and how to engage with the larger population on this issue in a non-political way. The county's unofficial slogan for the census is "I count! You count! We count!" Volunteer shifts are generally 2-3 hours and the schedule is flexible. Volunteers are needed for outreach throughout Santa Cruz County. We need many volunteers to ensure that our county is ready for the census. Please join us! Training for Cesus Volunteers is on July 25th at the Watsonville Public Library - from 2:00pm to 3:00pm- please register here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScZBNgRdHEprJHryskq6e8aPms1e3I9DdlCtvlMbJM8xzcLVw/viewform Strawberry Festival August 3rd and 4th We will be tabling at the Watsonville Strawberry Festival, Saturday August 3 and Sunday August 4. The booth will be in the plaza area, and we are requesting a minimum of 2, possibly up to 4 volunteers per shift. Grab a friend and SIGN UP here: https://forms.gle/ 1diYZGe53tPdx4gE8 National Night Out: Tuesday August 6, 2019 Our booth will be at the Plaza and we are looking for 3-4 volunteers per shift. See times below. Millions of neighbors in thousands of communities across the U.S. take part in National Night Out, started in 1984, on the first Tuesday in August with block parties, festivals, parades, cookouts and often with such activities as safety demonstrations. SIGN UP here: https://forms.gle/ JJXHLG3spM5dXAJB7 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

8/3/19 11:00 AM +more

Make a difference in the lower San Lorenzo River ecosystem by volunteering with a Coastal Watershed Council’s River Health Day. During the December River Health Day, we will be planting native plants along the banks of the San Lorenzo River to improve biodiversity and habitat complexity in the river ecosystem. This event will take place on the east bank of the San Lorenzo River upstream of the Broadway Avenue Bridge. We will meet at the Santa Cruz Riverwalk adjacent to Mimi De Marta Dog Park on 119 Broadway Santa Cruz. We highly recommend walking or biking to the event as there is limited parking in the area. Gloves and tools provided. Wear sturdy shoes and layers. We recommend that all volunteers dress in comfortable gardening clothes, include long pants, socks and sturdy shoes. Bring sun protection and a reusable water bottle. Volunteers under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Call (831) 464 9200 with any questions before the event. Location: Meet at the Santa Cruz Riverwalk adjacent to Mimi De Marta Dog Park on 119 Broadway Santa Cruz Sign up here: https://coastal-watershed.org/event/river-health-day-26/ This River Health Day is about a 2.5 hour event that starts at 9:30 am and goes until 12:00 pm, but we encourage people to commit to however long they desire! Whether you would like to stay for half an hour, an hour, or even a little more than two hours, we are happy to see you out there!

Santa Cruz, CA

8/10/19 9:30 AM +more

Event: School and Youth Programs Volunteer Training When: Saturday, August 24 & Sunday, August 25 – 9:00am-4:00pm Where: Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve, 1700 Elkhorn Road, Watsonville, CA 95076 Details: Share your passion for nature with children -- become a School and Youth Programs Guide at the Elkhorn Slough Reserve! As part of our education team, you will help visiting K-12 students discover the wonder of wetlands and estuaries. Education volunteers engage thousands of students each year in scavenger hunts through our Visitor Center, trails walks through our unique habitats, and with live specimens in our Microscope Discovery Lab! This special two day training will give you the confidence and tools you’ll need to engage students and help them learn about this amazing place. Volunteer shifts typically run Wednesday-Friday mornings, and are flexible -- Reserve staff will work with you to find the best fit for your availability! As a volunteer, you'll receive special access to learning opportunities with our research and stewardship department, as well as fun field trips, bookstore discounts, an invitation to our annual volunteer dinner! For more information and to register, visit https://www.elkhornslough.org/events/reserve-education-volunteer-training/ or contact: Virginia Guhin, Education Coordinator, (831)728-2822, virginia.guhin@wildlife.ca.gov 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

8/24/19 9:00 AM +more

Opportunity Details Cultivating Community The Sustain Supper provides an opportunity for the community to come together, enjoy a farm to table organic dinner and listen to inspiring speeches. Volunteering at this unique event offers a meaningful experience for volunteers to attend a special evening at the farm and get to know more about our programs. The August 24th Sustain Supper will be featuring, Jonathan Franzen, novelist, essayist, journalist, translator, and screenwriter, as the Keynote Speaker. Jonathan Franzen's great loves are literature and birds, and his most recent book, The End of the End of the Earth is a passionate argument for both. Jonathan has been a frequent visitor to the HGP farm to watch birds. Time magazine has called Franzen the "Great American Novelist" and NY Times referred to his "crackling genius." Event Date: Saturday, August 24th, 2019 E-mail emilyr@homelessgardenproject.org to sign up! Indicate your availability and which role(s) you are interested in. Volunteer Shifts & Roles: Volunteer Roles and Shift Times: 10:30am- 1:30pm: Set Up 2:30pm - 4:30pm: Parking 1:00pm - 6:00pm: Kitchen Support* 3:00pm - 7:30pm: Food Servers* 3:00pm - 7:30pm: Wine & Beverage Servers* 4:30pm - 7:30pm: Dishes Shift 1 6:30pm - 9:30pm: Dishes/Clean Up Shift 2 *NOTE: Food, wine and beverage Servers must attend an orientation, even if you have already done this role previously. Please let Emily know if you can not attend the orientation. The orientation will be at the Homeless Garden Project Farm. Date: Tuesday August 20th Time: 5:30pm - 6:30pm Location: The Farm on Shaffer Road (Click link for google maps directions) Set up, Parking, Greeting, Dishes and Clean Up volunteers do not have to attend, though you are welcome to join if you'd like. *Serving experience desired but not required

Santa Cruz, CA

8/24/19 10:30 AM

Be a part of the Mole & Mariachi Festival volunteer team! The Festival is a free, family-friendly event featuring a mole tasting competition, mariachi music, dancers, kids games, a raffle and much more. This fun, annual event brings a very large number of people to the Mission grounds (at the top of the hill above the clocktower in downtown Santa Cruz). There are volunteer opportunities in a wide variety of areas, so there are plenty choices to suit your volunteer interests. Volunteers are essential to help make this event the huge success it has been in the past. You will get experience working with the public and helping to put on a large scale event. This festival also promotes community interest is the historic Mission. Any funds raised go back to the Mission's operation. Any minor needs to bring a signed waiver from a parent or guardian. You can sign up for a specific shift at: https://signup.com/go/WCoJrrN

Santa Cruz, CA

9/7/19 11:00 AM

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! This opportunity is open to youth ages 11-18. The next Senior Tech Days from 12pm to 3pm are scheduled for: Saturday, September 7 & 21 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 Saturdays from 12pm-3pm at the Louden Nelson Community Center. Sign Up by clicking on the red box below.

Santa Cruz, CA

9/7/19 12:00 PM +more

Join us for a day full of bounce houses, face painting, slime making, and much more! Volunteer at the Kidrageous Carnival to support Jacob's Heart and local children with cancer. Whether you are helping a child mix up some slime, tie-dye a shirt, or planting a succulent, we promise you'll have a blast. We need help during the following shifts: Set-Up Crew: 8:00 am - 12:00 pm Help us set-up all of our booths and activities in the Watsonville City Plaza. Booth Crew: 11:30 am - 4:00 pm Create long lasting memories for our community by running a booth or dressing up as a child's favorite character. Clean-Up Crew: 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm Help us pack up from all of the fun had at the Kidrageous Carnival. This is a great way for volunteers to earn lots of volunteer hours! Planning on volunteering for more than 6 hours? Lunch will be on us! https://www.jacobsheart.org/ kidrageous-golden-carnival/

Watsonville, CA

9/29/19 8:00 AM +more

Join us on Family Volunteer Day to prepare for our annual Adopt A Family project. Saturday, November 23rd from 10am to 12pm at the Volunteer Center in Santa Cruz. The Adopt A Family project provides food, clothing and toys to over 400 of Santa Cruz County's neediest families during the holiday season. Every year approximately 100 families on our list go un-adopted, and we depend on our on donations from our Stars project to fill the need. Here's where you come in....we need your help to create wishing star ornaments. At our stars parties volunteers cut out foam stars, decorate them, and write gift ideas on them. These stars are displayed at local banks and businesses for members in the community to see specific gift needs of children and families who were not adopted. people pick up the stars, purchase the gift and return them to the bank or business. ***Stars making kits are also available for volunteer business groups, or student groups so you can have a party in your office or classroom. We'll provide you with precut stars that just need a creative touch! Once you've completed the stars hang them up in your business and watch as the gifts pour in, or return them to the Volunteer Center. We will provide volunteers with all the art supplies needed to complete the task. Any supplies you'd like to contribute will be greatly appreciated. If you sign up by November 15th you will be entered in a drawing for 4 all day Boardwalk tickets and 4 tickets to ride the train at Roaring Camp Railraod. Tickets will be delivered to winners when they volunteer. Get Involved... Sign Up For This Opportunity using the SIGN UP button below

Santa Cruz, CA

11/23/19 10:00 AM

Año Nuevo State Park is currently looking for outdoor enthusiasts to join our volunteer family! Año Nuevo is home to a large Elephant Seal rookery, and offers a remarkable wildlife experience just 20 miles north of Santa Cruz. Accepted applicants receive comprehensive training as docent naturalists and then lead guided walks through the natural preserve in the winter and act as “roving” naturalist interpreters the rest of the year. Training occurs every Sunday from Sept 24th through Dec 10th. Docents are given a uniform jacket but extra uniform items are encouraged for purchase at wholesale prices. The rest of the year, you will act as a roving naturalist and we ask approx 2 half days or 1 full day per month. In addition to the time commitment, docents need to be able to walk approx 3-6 miles per shift in uneven terrain and over sand dunes. Docents need to be comfortable leading tours of approx. 20 people of all ages through a wildlife preserve among 2,000 lb elephant seals. Public speaking skills and a passion for the environment are encouraged. Volunteers are invited to attend after-hour tours of the preserve for friends and family, special docent only events and enrichment classes/lectures with various specialists and scientists. To request an application or for more information contact Christen Bechert, Docent Recruitment Coordinator at 650-879-2032 or email anovolcoordinator@parks.ca.gov

Pescadero, CA

Through 8/13/19

Helping Hands volunteers make a crucial difference in the lives of low-income senior homeowners by providing free home safety checks. Volunteers help seniors remain independent and safe, and potentially add years to their lives. The Home Safety Check Superstars provide free home safety checks in senior homes, using a Fall Prevention Checklist (provided by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). After the checklist is completed, Helping Hands will dispatch volunteers to complete the recommended home repairs and fix the fall hazards. 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 12/12/19

Friday Night Live is looking for middle school and high school aged youth who want to work on projects that affect all of us in Santa Cruz County and build valuable skills to transfer in to employment. Youth will lead projects related to limiting access of substances to youth and environmental prevention policies to promote a safe and thriving community. While Friday Night Live youth work on many and varying projects, some of the projects include: Training and Special Events Coordinator: Help to plan events and trainings. Collect and order needed materials, contact venues and attendees, order food, send follow up emails, create flyers and appropriate advertising, and other event related coordination. RAMA: Responsible Alcohol Merchant Awards are given to local merchants who work to limit youth access to substances. Some duties include coordination, scheduling and conducting interviews, using a rubric to determine the level of award, promoting awardees through media press releases, working with law enforcement, and distributing awards. Choose Your Ride: is a campaign to promote safe rides and designated drivers through local restaurants and bars. Participating businesses offer promotions to designated drivers. Some duties include outreach to merchants for participation, distribution of materials, tabling at local events to promote the campaign, and project coordination. Day Out With Thomas: The last weekend of July and first weekend of August, Friday Night Live youth and staff volunteer and fundraise at the Day Out With Thomas events at Roaring Camp. Youth gain real job skills in food service, customer service, youth and adult engagement, taking tickets, boarding the train, family friendly activities, and retail service. During the school year, Friday Night Live youth plan and implement a project to address a challenge in their school or community. Projects include improving school climate and promoting safe spaces, reducing substance use of young people, promoting positive social norms, and so much more. Youth leaders who volunteer for 50+ hours during summer session are eligible for a stipend and will be considered for additional youth conference and training opportunities. Volunteer for this project -- use the EXPRESS INTEREST button below to connect with the project coordinator. **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 10/30/19

The Walnut Avenue Family & Women’s Center (Walnut Avenue) is a strength-based family center. The mission of the Family Support Services program is to ensure that everyone who enters our doors feels welcomed, respected, and cared for. This department provides support to participants of other programs. FSS manages our food bank, donation room, operations (including front office), campaigns and annual event. Please contact the front office at (831) 426-3062 to sign up for a volunteer orientation. From there, you will be connected to the opportunity coordinator. Benefits of being a Community Relations Intern · Acquire skills to provide strength-based and trauma-informed care · Learn crisis intervention techniques and communication skills in a nonprofit office setting · Opportunity to learn community relations skills including donor relations · Gain skills in supporting the daily operations of a multi-program non-profit including administrative tasks · Gain skills in project management, events and fundraising · Opportunity to learn skills for managing a Food Bank/Pantry · Support multicultural /multilingual communities · Create social change Roles of a FSS Intern: Under general supervision, provide strength-based, trauma-informed, support to participants and staff at our agency. Job duties vary upon focus of interest & time commitment. Average of 4-10 hours per week. · Front Office Support · Food Bank/Donation Room · Campaign support (Sept.-Dec. only) Requirements & Qualifications: · Complete the Walnut Avenue Volunteer Orientation · Pass criminal background check/finger printing and application process · Completion of the front office training (one-on-one with Front Office Manager) · Commit to volunteer for a minimum of 3-6 consecutive months · Attend any required meetings with agency supervisor · Complete and return timesheet and other internship paperwork in a timely manner · Strong communication skills, welcoming demeanor and the ability to maintain clear boundaries · Ability to represent the agency with integrity · Comfortable supporting participants in crisis · Available for at least one day a week (Monday-Friday) during office hours (9am-5pm) · Access to internet to communicate via email with agency on a regular basis · Over the age of 18 · Bilingual helpful but not required · Complete an exit survey upon completion of volunteer program Knowledge, Skills & Abilities · Utilize the strength-based empowerment model to provide support to participants and staff · Ability to communicate effectively with participants from diverse socio-economic, cultural and educational backgrounds to gain rapport, maintain confidence, and obtain confidential information in a tactful and courteous manner · Ability to establish priorities to meet the needs of participants who may be under stress, in crisis, and addressing dangerous circumstances and multiple issues simultaneously · Informed on agency programs, community programs and local resources · Detail oriented with clear communication skills (verbal and written) · Capable of working collaboratively and independently · Commitment to maintain a mutually respectful & supportive work environment that values and empowers team members to collectively accomplish program goals · Strong interpersonal skills: commitment to uphold agency Code of Conduct, confidentiality and maintain a mutually respectful, professional work environment *Intern/Internships are usually connected with an individual receiving school credit from their college for their volunteer work with us. We are also open to creating internships for individuals that may not be getting school credit, but are willing to volunteer at least 10 hours a week for 3+ consecutive months. It is the policy of Walnut Avenue Family & Women’s Center to provide equal employment and volunteer opportunities (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, physical disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression 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 12/23/19

The Walnut Avenue Family & Women’s Center (Walnut Avenue) is a strength-based family center dedicated to addressing barriers to families thriving in Santa Cruz County. Our mission is to provide support and services so women, children and families have the opportunity and skills to thrive. ***We are currently looking for ECE volunteers! Please call Genevieve at (831) 426-3062, ext 215 to attend a volunteer orientation and get started!*** Description: Provide strength-based, child-centered support to children ages 0 to 5 years and their families. Volunteer duties may include: · Interacting with children on-on-one and in groups · Supporting teachers by facilitating activities: art, books, circle time, cooking, dramatic play, manipulative, sensory and songs · Conflict resolution and problem solving with children · Interacting with parents to strengthen child’s support systems · Helping with snack, lunch preparation and clean up ECE Volunteer Shifts: · Monday-Friday between the hours of 8:30am-5:30pm Requirements & Qualifications · Ability to make a weekly volunteer commitment (at least one shift a week) · Ability to make a minimum of 3 consecutive month commitment · Completion of Walnut Avenue’s volunteer orientation · Completion of one-on-one training with ECE Director · Fingerprinting/background check (DOJ, FBI and Child Abuse Index check) · Proof of full immunization Please call the office at (831) 426-3062 beforehand to sign up for an orientation. From there, you will be in contact with the opportunity coordinator. Volunteers under 18 must interview in person. It is the policy of Walnut Avenue to provide equal employment and volunteer opportunities (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, physical disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

Santa Cruz, CA

Through 12/23/19

Youth N.O.W is a pro- social and enrichment program that offers free services in regards to middle school and high school students’ scholastics! Youth N.O.W envisions to empower our youth’s self- efficacy, self- worth, health, and education. Come spend a couple of hours a week helping a Middle School Student with his/her homework and school projects. An opportunity to build a bond with our youth, offering mentorship and creating a lasting impact. Middle School Program runs Monday-Thursday 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm. 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 7/31/19