At the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County, our mission is simple: to transform our community through volunteerism and empower everyone to be the difference. We know that when people are connected to causes they care about, and given the right tools and support, everything improves. These connections fuel personal happiness, strong families, healthy businesses, and a vibrant community.
Local Impact
The Volunteer Center is the hub where these connections happen. It’s where people like you—everyday heroes—come together to create positive change. Just look at the difference volunteers, donors, and partners make when we connect for good, for the greater good:
- $10 million in donated labor boosted our local economy last year
- 15,000 volunteers mobilized county-wide over the past year, helping individuals and families, preserving our natural spaces, and building an equitable community.
- 7,700 individuals received direct support through our 19 health and service programs this past year, from crisis services to ongoing support, offering a new lease on life.
- 5,000 court cases closed through our Court Community Service Program since 2021, providing low-income individuals a path out of the system.
- 2,000 gift bundles delivered to 640 families during the 2023 holiday season, spreading hope and joy to our most vulnerable neighbors.
- $1 million+ raised for local nonprofits and schools through Santa Cruz Gives in 2023, ensuring our nonprofits have the resources they need.
Every bit of progress, every life changed, is thanks to the dedicated volunteers, donors, and partners who give their hearts to this community.
Volunteering: Good for the Community—and for You!
Volunteering provides essential support to those in need, raises awareness about important causes and issues, and strengthens the fabric of our community. But the benefits go beyond that—they extend to you, the volunteer. The right volunteer opportunity can help you make new friends, build professional connections, learn new skills, and improve your mental and physical health. Volunteering can reduce stress, fight depression, keep your mind active, and give you a sense of purpose.
While more involvement can bring even greater rewards, volunteering doesn’t have to require a long-term commitment or a large time investment. Even small acts of giving can make a big difference for those in need and enhance your own well-being.
It’s Easy to Get Involved
At the Volunteer Center, you can find the perfect match for your interests, time, and skills.From community-based programs in mental health, restorative justice, family support, and empowered aging to large-scale initiatives like disaster response, Santa Cruz Gives, and the Be the Difference Awards, the Volunteer Center offers endless ways to get involved and see the real impact of your efforts.
We are currently recruiting for:
- Adult Literacy Program Tutors
- Falls Prevention Training Coaches
- Adopt-A-Family Volunteers and Business Partners
- Over 100 local volunteer opportunities, from helping animals to beach cleanups to food drives and more!
Join Us
Visit www.scvolunteercenter.org or call 831-457-5070 to find the volunteer opportunity that’s right for you. Whether you can give a little time or a lot, prefer to work in person or remotely, or are passionate about helping people, animals, or the environment—now is the time to get involved. We’re grateful for every volunteer, donor, and partner who joins us in this important work.
Together, we can build a stronger community where everyone thrives!
