"The Most Inspiring Event of the Year!"

Celebrate those who show up every day to be the difference for Santa Cruz County.
May 14, 2025

Featured Volunteer Opportunities

180+ ways to volunteer for mental health, connection, and community.

Take Action for AmeriCorps!

Federal actions are gutting AmeriCorps programs nationwide. Learn how this effects you and take action.

Pitch In All Santa Cruz County Clean Up Day!  

Join your neighbors and keep our county clean, healthy, and thriving.

News and Events

We Need Your Help to Save AmeriCorps Now!

AmeriCorps, like our National Parks, is a system envied the world over. And here in Santa Cruz County, it’s a lifeline — in times of crisis and every day in between. But now, that lifeline is being cut. Federal actions are gutting AmeriCorps programs nationwide, ...
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Your support is Needed Now, more than Ever.

A message from Karen Delaney, Executive Director Friends and Community, Right now, the Volunteer Center is facing a $300,000 shortfall due to rising costs and unprecedented government funding cuts. This means we are at risk of losing vital programs that provide a lifeline for seniors, ...
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Upcoming Events

Volunteer Spotlight

Ready Steady – Driving Change in Santa Cruz County

“Matt Saltzman, founder of Ready Steady Transport Services, with his favorite co-pilot. Matt built Ready Steady to meet a growing need in our community: safe, compassionate, and dependable transportation for seniors and individuals with mobility challenges. His commitment to service goes beyond business-it’s rooted in family, heart, and a vision for a more connected and … Read more

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The Golden Hammer Crew: Building Dreams with Habitat for Humanity

For the Golden Hammer Crew, volunteering is more than just a chance to develop new skills; it’s about camaraderie and sense of community.

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Volunteers Transform Lives at the Homeless Garden Project

HGP brings together a community of volunteers, interns, customers, and trainees to collaborate in support of their mission. This blended experience breaks down the profound sense of isolation felt by many people experiencing homelessness while providing a platform for those who want to learn and take action.

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A Love of Learning Leads to Literacy and More

Cecilia Ogarrio-Munoz stood before a packed crowd of cheering family and supporters at the Henry J. Mello Center for the Performing Arts in Watsonville. Proudly wearing her cap and gown, Cecilia walked across the stage to receive her high school equivalency degree, or GED.

Read More about A Love of Learning Leads to Literacy and More