Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County

The holidays are here and it's time for the annual holiday parade! To make this event a success, we need YOUR help! The beloved Downtown Holiday Parade takes place this year on Saturday, December 7th. The Parade brings thousands of people Downtown to unite and celebrate our community. This Parade is 95% volunteer run and we need your help to make it a success! Volunteers are needed from 8am to 12pm. You can sign up directly here: https://www.volunteersignup.org/YPT7F The Downtown Holiday Parade is Rain or Shine.

Santa Cruz, CA

12/7/19 8:00 AM

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, November 2nd from 10-11 AM Wednesday, November 6th from 6-7 PM Saturday, November 16th from 10-11 AM Tuesday November 19th From 10-11 AM Saturday, December 7th from 10 - 11 AM 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

12/7/19 10:00 AM

The Elkhorn Slough Reserve needs your help restoring 65 acres of salt marsh along the banks of the Elkhorn Slough! Volunteers that join us on this Public Planting Day will get their hands muddy planting new habitat that will grow to serve migratory shorebirds and sea otters. This one-day event will include an overview of the Reserve's restoration projects, and some time to explore a side of the Slough not usually open to the public. No skills are needed, but the day's work will require some lifting and repeated bending. This is also a great opportunity to meet and network with our Stewardship and Outreach staff. Tools, light snacks, and hot beverages are provided. Registration is required - please register by selecting the "express interest" button below OR visit the event page at https://www.elkhornslough.org/events/public-planting-day/

Watsonville, CA

12/7/19 10:00 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! 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

12/7/19 12:00 PM + 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

12/7/19 12:30 PM + more

Housing Matters is looking for 18 volunteers to help out at our annual donor appreciation gala at the MAH in downtown Santa Cruz on Saturday, Dec. 7. Together, Housing Matters volunteers and donors helped 296 adults and kids experiencing homelessness in Santa Cruz County to find permanent homes last year. We will celebrate this year's successes together on December 7th. We rely upon the generosity of volunteer time to run our fundraising events, and would be grateful for any additional help to support our upcoming donor appreciation celebration.

Santa Cruz, CA

12/7/19 3:30 PM + more

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. We can accomodate 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. 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. ** Please note we will not be serving on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve or Christmas Day**

Santa Cruz, CA

12/9/19 8:00 AM + 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

12/9/19 9:00 AM + more

As with all of our previous community art projects, this whole adventure is reliant on volunteers! Some of our volunteers are unable to do any of the physical work, that it is OK! In addition to folks that want to break and place tiles we need greeters, door sitters, interpreters, and photographers. Some folks help out for just an hour or two while others can’t seem to get enough and come all the time. We are INCLUSIVE! If you want to get involved we will help you find a job that is fulfilling and fun for you. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday nights at the Center are for Watsonville Youth. We are looking for 1 or 2 adult volunteers who can be regulars so that the returning students get to know you, bilingual preferred.

Watsonville, CA

12/9/19 3:00 PM + more

Warehouse volunteer elves assist with the intake of gifts, gift wrapping, organizing the warehouse, and distributing gifts to agencies. These volunteers are the muscle behind the Adopt-A-Family program and have a lot of fun playing the role of "elves" for these families in need. As a Lead Elf, you'd have a chance to do these activities and also serve as a point person for volunteers needing support with the process.

Santa Cruz, CA

12/11/19 11:00 AM + more

Our Adopt a Family Holiday project provides clothing, toys, and food to over 450 families in need during the holiday season. Volunteer Activities: As warehouse volunteer elves, you can assist with the intake of gifts, gift wrapping, organizing the warehouse, and distributing gifts to agencies. These volunteers are the muscle behind the Adopt a Family program and have a lot of fun playing the role of "elves" for these families in need. Wednesday, December 11th, 11:30am-3:30pm, 3:00pm-8:00pm, Gift Intake and Sorting Thursday, December 12th, 11:30am-3:30pm, 3:00pm-8:00pm, Gift Intake and Sorting Friday, December 13th, 11:30am-3:30pm, 3:00pm-8:00pm Gift Intake and Sorting Saturday, December 14th, 11:30-1:30pm, 1:00-3:30pm, 3:00pm - 5:30pm, 5:00pm - 8:00pm Gift Intake and Wrapping Sunday, December 15th, 11:30-1:30pm, 1:00-3:30pm, 3:00pm - 5:30pm, 5:00pm - 8:00pm Gift Intake and Wrapping Monday, December 16th, 11:30am-3:30pm and 3pm-6:30pm Gift sorting and assembling family packages Tuesday, December 17th, 9am-12pm and 11:30am-2:30pm Gift Distribution and Loading (Volunteers must be able to handle some lifting) Wednesday, December 18th, 9am-12pm and 11:30am-2:30pm Gift Distribution and Loading (Volunteers must be able to handle some lifting) Thursday, December 19th, Gift Sorting, **Time TBD Friday, December 20th, 8:30am to 12:30pm, Gift Distribution Warehouse is located at the Capitola mall - exact location will be emailed one week prior to your volunteer shift. Additional shift options available for volunteer groups! Please email Heather or call (831) 427-5070 x119 to request group volunteer projects.

Watsonville, CA

12/11/19 11:30 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

12/11/19 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

12/11/19 3:30 PM + more

We are working to revitalize the Live Oak community garden and we cannot do it without your help. If you take satisfaction in beautification of the neighborhood then this is a job for you!! We will be planting a cover crop for the winter serving to revitalize the nutrients in the soil and create a beautiful visual image in the garden. Will need to be able to use a shovel, discard weeds, turn the soil and plant seeds. Gloves, sunscreen and a hat are recommended.

Santa Cruz, CA

12/14/19 9:00 AM

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

12/14/19 9:30 AM

The Diversity Center's Holiday Party is an annual event to celebrate the holiday season with our community. There will be food, drinks, and plenty of cheer as well as a raffle with exciting prizes. Work a shift and enjoy the rest of the party as a guest! The proceeds raised at the Holiday Party go towards the Diversity Center which provides vital resources such as support groups to the LGBTQ+ community of Santa Cruz County. Volunteer roles include: setup, 2pm - 4pm guest registration, 3:30- 5:15 PM OR 5:00 - 6:30 PM food replenishing, 4:00 - 5:30pm OR 5:30 - 7:00 raffle ticket sales, 4:00 - 5:30 OR 5:30 - 6:45 cleanup, 6:30pm - 8:00pm Use the following link to signup to volunteer: tinyurl.com/tdcholiday2019

Santa Cruz, CA

12/15/19 2:00 PM

Join us for a free family celebration which re-enacts the Mexican ritual of Mary and Joseph's search for lodging in Bethlehem. After our musical procession up and down 17th Avenue, we will share a meal and celebration in the Live Oak Grange Hall. Come help with clean-up from 6:00pm-9:30pm!

Santa Cruz, CA

12/15/19 5:00 PM

Come join us in cheerfully wrapping gifts for the community! We are looking for individuals who can wrap gifts in a presentable manner and work well as a team. We'll be at the Capitola Mall from December 20-23; shifts are listed below. All supplies are provided. We greatly appreciate donations, for every $1 donated Second Harvest can provide 4 healthy meals. More information and sign up for a specific shift: https://give.thefoodbank.org/charities/4360-second-harvest-food-bank-santa-cruz-county/volunteer

Capitola, CA

12/20/19 4:00 PM + more

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

Through12/12/19

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

Through12/23/19

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 EEC volunteers! Please call our front desk at (831) 426-3062 to sign up for a volunteer orientation, or email the HR coordinator at mcoffey@wafwc.org. 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

Through12/23/19

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 Thursday, October 17th, 2019! 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 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

Volunteer Kids Group Facilitator Role & Responsibilities This is a volunteer position. Under general supervision of the Kids Group Supervisor, Kids Group Facilitators will provide care to children ages infancy to 11 years old while their parent or guardian is receiving services at Walnut Avenue. Provide a safe space and care for children infancy to 11 years old Set up activities for Kids Group children including activities related to the “A Window Between Worlds” curriculum Interact with the parent/guardian Interact with children through communication, play or activities during group/care Collect sign-in/out sheets and any other necessary paperwork from parent/guardian Clean up space after group Role of Teen Group Facilitators This is a volunteer position. Under general supervision from the Teen Group Supervisor, Teen Group Facilitators will provide strength-based, trauma-informed crisis intervention, advocacy and support to teen participants. Facilitators will work collaboratively with the Teen Group Supervisor to develop activities and discussions on topics relevant to the participating teens. Facilitators are also expected to take a leadership role and be the main facilitator(s) for some activities and/or discussions. Facilitators will also work with the Teen Group Supervisor to develop and practice public speaking and presentation skills. Teen Group Facilitator Responsibilities: Set up activities or presentation materials/tools. Setting out snacks and drinks for the teens. Interact with the teens of the group during check-ins, activities, games, and during check-outs. Clean up activity and/or presentation materials/tools. Put leftover snacks back into the Teen Group Snack Cupboard Must attend Teen Group Team Meetings in order to provide input and feedback on activities, discussions, etc. 1 hour of research time will also be required outside of Teen Group and the Team Meeting time when developing an activity and or discussion topic for the group. Contribute to the Activity/Discussion Google docs that the Teen Group Supervisor shares with all facilitators via email If going away for longer than 1 week, you must make arrangements to conduct research for teen group activities/discussions for at least 2 hours per week Workshop Facilitator Role & Responsibilities This is a volunteer position. Under general supervision of the Community Education Lead, workshop volunteers will educate and empower our youth to think for themselves. These workshops help individuals understand the importance of their voices in society and how they can make healthy and sound decisions. Volunteer Workshop Facilitators are responsible for facilitating workshops for youth and adults that encompass many different topics including consent, domestic violence and sex/gender identities. These workshops are a supportive environment where all attendees are free to ask questions and thrive. Planning and preparation (with co-facilitator): Prepare for each workshop, including supply gathering and curriculum work Attend practice sessions for each workshop Conduct workshops Provide one-on-one support to workshop attendees as needed Attend debriefing sessions following workshops, fill out debriefing paperwork, and turn the paperwork into your task supervisor (1 hour per week) Serve as a liaison between the schools/community organization (where you are making the presentation) and Walnut Avenue while facilitating Workshops include: I Decide (Comprehensive Sex Education Program) Healthy Relationships (Communication, Friendship and Teen Dating Violence Awareness) Other workshops you may be trained to facilitate: DV in the Workplace (How to be an ally to survivors in the workplace) Community Education through tabling at events and/or making mini presentations about our agency services Requirements & Qualificationsn For all Positions Please wait at least 2 years after receiving support services at Walnut Avenue to apply as a volunteer Complete Walnut Avenue Volunteer Orientation Complete Walnut Avenue’s Kids Group Facilitator Training Criminal background check/fingerprinting and complete application process Commit to intern for 3 consecutive months with Walnut Avenue once training is complete Make a weekly 2-4 hour time commitment to care for children (depends on weekly shift selected) Attend weekly 30 minute Kids Group team meetings for ongoing training and supervision Completion of monthly timesheets and submit it along with other internship paperwork when due Strong communication skills, welcoming demeanor and the ability to maintain clear boundaries Ability to represent the agency with integrity Comfortable supporting participants in crisis Access to internet to communicate via email Passion for working with at-risk children Over the age of 18 Bilingual helpful but not required Complete an exit survey upon completion of volunteer program Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities Knowledge of the dynamics of DV, the impact of DV on survivors and their children Utilize the strength-based empowerment model to provide trauma informed services Knowledge of and ability to adhere to agency, program and component protocols Informed on agency programs, community programs and local resources High level of self-awareness Capacity to assess, prioritize and manage multiple tasks simultaneously in a time-sensitive, emotionally stressful, fast paced and ever changing environment with minimal supervision Strong professional communication skills: ability to respond to program communications within 24-hours 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 Detail oriented and effective organizational skills 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 that values and empowers team members. 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

Through12/23/19

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

Volunteers are trained in hands-on care giving and are provided a rewarding opportunity to cultivate awareness, spiritual presence and compassion by caring for those at the end of life. Simple tasks of visiting with clients, perhaps read to them or to be quietly nearby, assist with oral medications if needed. There is a volunteer application form which can be found on our website:www.tarahome.org Training: Tara Home staff offer trainings on assisting end of life clients with basic comfort procedures but volunteers with experience in this area are appreciated. Training in turning clients, bed changing, etc to be provided. Volunteer Shifts: Shifts are four hours and are throughout the day and night. A minimum of one shift a week is preferred. Overall a commitment of one year is recommended. Continuing education are credits available. Nurses or nursing students often find Tara Home a rewarding volunteer experience, as well as those who simply wish to offer company to someone in need of kindness and companionship in their last weeks, days, and hours. There are other avenues to help, from cleaning to painting to repairs, and of course donations. San Francisco’s Zen Center’s hospice had to recently close its doors, so this is one of the very few remaining sites of its kind. It is a cabin in the redwoods at Land of Medicine Buddha staffed by round the clock volunteers who offer compassionate care to a hospice patient near the end of life. Tara home is a registered nonprofit. Whilst growing out of Buddhist philosophy, it takes a non-denominational approach in offering support. 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

Through1/16/20

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