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It's the Holiday Volunteer Guide!

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News and Events

Giving Thanks to You 

A Note of Gratitude from our Executive Director. This is a heartfelt note to let you know how grateful I am for you. Since 1967, the Volunteer Center has been the home for people to come together and connect for good. I am incredibly proud ...
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Four Ways to Give Joy this Holiday Season with Adopt-a-Family

For over 30 years, Adopt-a-Family has helped generous community members bring joy to local families, ensuring they experience the warmth and wonder of the season. In Santa Cruz County, more families than ever are hoping for a holiday miracle. Nearly 600 families—including over 2,000 children ...
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World Mental Health Day: It’s Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace

This year’s theme for World Mental Health Day is ‘It’s Time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace’. For over a decade, I’ve dedicated my career to mental health advocacy across our community. Despite our belief of being an innovative and civic-minded community, a majority ...
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Upcoming Events

Group photo of 16 diverse volunteers and staff members of the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County, standing outside their building. They are smiling and posing together on a sunny day, with one person holding a clear trophy, celebrating their community service achievements.

A Big Win for Volunteers!

The Volunteer Center receives the High Five Community Service Excellence Award from FOX 35 and Monterey Credit Union!

Click the image to learn how the Volunteer Center can help you connect for good!

Volunteer Spotlight

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.

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Meet Ellen: Volunteer with Americorps Seniors / Monterey Bay RSVP

Ellen, a retired real estate agent and now a proud member of AmeriCorps Seniors/Monterey Bay RSVP, has been with the Volunteer Center since the spring of 2023.

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Meet Ron and Jim: Friends in Service

Neighbors, workout partners, volunteers, and friends for over 15 years – Jim Kinney and Ron Marquez have a long history of community service.

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