Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County

If you’ve ever felt like everyone else is thriving while you’re longing for connection, you’re not alone. Loneliness and isolation have become a serious threat to public health—so much so that U.S. Surgeon General Vivek H. Murthy has declared loneliness as a public health epidemic. Nearly one in four adults report feeling lonely, and young […]

Imagine being a child during the holiday season, dreaming of a warm meal, a special gift, or a cozy jacket. You’re filled with hope and excitement, wishing for a holiday surprise. Sounds like the regular holiday dreams of any child, right? But for over 2,000 children in Santa Cruz County, that wish feels distant, perhaps […]

1. Adopt a Family Holiday for the HolidaysCalling all elves! Your help is needed to provide gifts and groceries to almost 600 families – including 2,000 children and teens – in need this holiday season.  It’s easy to get involved! You can choose what works best for you: Visit scvolunteercenter.org or call the Adopt-a-Family Hotline […]

As we age, staying connected and accessing essential services can become increasingly difficult, leading to isolation and health challenges. The Volunteer Center’s Empowered Aging Program works to ensure that older adults receive the support they need to live healthy, fulfilling lives. Programs like Falls Prevention, Transportation, and Senior Home Repair rely on volunteers to make […]

Volunteering is a powerful way to share your expertise, gain new skills, and build meaningful connections. It’s truly a win-win—studies show that giving back reduces symptoms of depression, supports overall health and wellness, and fosters a greater sense of purpose and belonging. This month, the Volunteer Center is excited to present a top ten list […]

Lookout’s July 31 housing forum and related coverage highlight the complex challenges our civic leaders face in addressing the housing crisis in Santa Cruz County. Meanwhile, the daily struggles of our unhoused and under-housed neighbors continue to grow. Many in our community are asking, “How can I help?” While solutions to the housing crisis are […]

Did you know that at least 1 in 10 residents of Santa Cruz County face hunger daily? This problem intensifies during the summer months when many local children and youth lack access to the free lunches and snacks they receive during the school year. Our local nonprofits report that summer is also a challenging time […]

Welcome to summer in Santa Cruz County, where the spirit of adventure meets the call to service! Volunteering is actually a great way to explore our community from the eyes of an adventurer. Think of the Volunteer Center as your trusted guide, helping you navigate the landscape of service opportunities across our county. Let us […]

April is Global Volunteer Month, and the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County is leading the charge with volunteer opportunities taking place every day in April.  Volunteering in your community is more important than ever – the US Surgeon General recently declared loneliness as an epidemic sweeping across the nation. The antidote? Volunteerism! By volunteering, […]

The Volunteer Center connects over 15,000 volunteers a year with fulfilling service opportunities in our community – while also managing 19 programs to meet community need. It’s no surprise that the center relies on volunteers to make it all happen! The Volunteer Center is truly the hub for all-things volunteer… and they need your time, […]