In their Words...

"In the soil of our urban farm and garden, people find the tools to build a home in the world." — Darrie Ganzhorn, Executive Director, Homeless Garden Project

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Volunteer Profiles - Volunteers Transform Lives at the Homeless Garden Project

In their Words...

"In the soil of our urban farm and garden, people find the tools to build a home in the world." — Darrie Ganzhorn, Executive Director, Homeless Garden Project

Spotlight on: Homeless Garden Project

The Homeless Garden Project connects volunteers to meaningful opportunities that make an impact in the lives of individuals and our community. One of Santa Cruz’s most beloved organizations, HGP provides job training, transitional employment, and support services to individuals experiencing homelessness. HGP also offers education and volunteer programs for the broader community.

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. HGP’s innovative approach fosters a diverse, symbiotic ecosystem, building a path out of homelessness, improving the local food system, and connecting people through community service and environmental stewardship. The combined efforts of all involved create a stronger, more sustainable home for everyone in the community.

“We love collaborating with the Volunteer Center to build a strong community that values and practices service. Volunteers break down barriers in our community and build capability. Thank you to our partners at the Volunteer Center for all you do to help us achieve our mission: In the soil of our urban farm and garden, people find the tools to build a home in the world.
— Darrie Ganzhorn, Executive Director, Homeless Garden Project

 

These Two Homeless Garden Project Volunteers are Making a Difference

 

Suzanne MacLean: Building Community with Compassion

Suzanne MacLean has served in many roles as a volunteer at the Homeless Garden Project (HGP), including six years as a member of the Board of Directors, on which she served as Secretary and chair of the Personnel Committee, as well as hands-on involvement as an event volunteer and project plan supporter. Suzanne has also been an exceptional mentor and role model for Executive Director, Darrie Ganzhorn.

 

Suzanne’s patient and thoughtful mentoring has been pivotal in sustaining and growing HGP’s operations. As Darrie shared, “She’s supported me to grow as a leader, to be fierce in my commitment and confidence, and to improve in project management and planning. She’s been a positive role model, encouraging me to support our staff to lead, and so leadership is passed throughout our organization and into the community.” Suzanne’s mentorship created a ripple effect that extends throughout the organization and fortifies HGP’s ability to impact thousands of people annually.

 

Dean Spieller: Nourishing Hearts and Minds 

Dean Spieller’s volunteerism is a beacon of hope and kindness. With an unwavering commitment to health and wellness, Dean dedicates 120 hours a month to serving meals and offering support to trainees. His legendary mac and cheese lunches on Tuesdays are more than just meals; they are acts of love that provide nourishment and comfort. Dean’s efforts extend beyond material support; his warm greetings and genuine concern for the well-being of others create a welcoming environment that instills dignity and hope. Through his dedication, Dean demonstrates the profound impact of small acts of kindness in the lives of those experiencing homelessness.

Nominated by the staff at the Homeless Garden Project, both Suzanne and Dean were honored for their outstanding service to the organization and the community at the Volunteer Center’s annual Be the Difference Awards in May, 2024.


Join the Volunteer Community at the Homeless Garden Project

Volunteers can find several opportunities to get involved – from office assistance to retail sales to farm support and special events. Search for Volunteer Opportunities at the Homeless Garden Project today!

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FIND YOUR CAUSE: Explore volunteer opportunities currently available.

At the Volunteer Center, we connect over 15,000 volunteers annually to support local nonprofits, contributing $10 million in labor to the local economy. Each month, more than 1,500 unique visitors search our volunteer opportunity database looking for the perfect volunteer job.

  • For Nonprofits and Agencies: Your nonprofit or agency can use our website to recruit ongoing volunteers, register and schedule event volunteers, or publicize volunteer trainings—all for free! Once registered, your opportunities are automatically linked to allforgood.org, californiavolunteers.org, and serve.gov—the largest volunteer databases in the United States. Register Your Organization or Submit a Volunteer Opportunity today!
  • For Businesses: The Volunteer Center helps businesses connect for good. If you are interested in employee engagement opportunities, our Volunteer Match team will match your employees to meaningful volunteer opportunities within our community.

Contact Christina Thurston at 427-5070 or email connect@scvolunteercenter.org for more information.

Together, we’re transforming our community—empowering everyone to Be the Difference!