As we embrace the road ahead, we celebrate the nonprofits that bring compassion and resilience to Santa Cruz County every day. These dedicated organizations are the heart of our community, providing everything from nourishing meals for our neighbors to preserving the county’s natural beauty, supporting mental well-being, and expanding access to secure housing. Their commitment enriches our lives and strengthens the very fabric of our community.
Here at Lookout’s Community & Commerce team, we invite you to be a part of this crucial work. By supporting these fourteen impactful nonprofits, you’re fueling their mission and helping create a thriving, united Santa Cruz. Whether it’s through donations, volunteering, or spreading awareness, each gesture contributes to a ripple effect that reaches every corner of our community.
With just weeks left in 2024, now is the perfect time to make a meaningful impact. Read the stories below to learn about these trusted nonprofits and find out how you can join in making a difference in Santa Cruz County.
Building brighter futures in Santa Cruz County: Join us in building homes, communities, and hope!
The lack of affordable housing is one of the most urgent challenges facing our community today. In Santa Cruz County, many families struggle just to…
Keep reading
Nourishing your Neighbor: How Grey Bears senior volunteers fill plates and hearts throughout Santa Cruz County
By 7:00 a.m. the Grey Bears Volunteers are well on their way to packing over 4,000 grocery bags filled with fresh, organic produce for seniors… Keep reading
Santa Cruz Mountains Trail Stewardship: Building & maintaining Santa Cruz’s legendary trails
Access to trails and open spaces makes Santa Cruz one of the happiest places to live and play. Whether you’ve ridden from the office to… Keep reading
Second Harvest Food Bank Santa Cruz County launches holiday campaign to raise funding for 4,750,000 meals
As the holiday season draws near, Second Harvest Food Bank is mobilizing its resources and community support to combat hunger for the more than 65,000… Keep reading
Progress and promise: Celebrating successes and reaching new landmarks with O’Neill Sea Odyssey
Community and Equity – Goals With a Plan The O’Neill Sea Odyssey Board and Staff have deepened our commitment to continue reducing barriers for 4th-6th… Keep reading
How supporting Community Bridges can transform lives this giving season
Community and Equity – Goals With a Plan Since the pandemic began, grocery prices have surged by 25%, placing an enormous burden on local families… Keep reading
2,000 reasons to give – Adopt-a-Family and bring holiday joy to Santa Cruz County kids
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…
Keep reading
Urgently-needed low-barrier mental health support: NAMI Santa Cruz County
Laura felt alone, unsure of where to turn for support and advice. Her young adult son was experiencing extreme mental health symptoms and they were… Keep reading
Connecting Santa Cruz to natural history since 1905
Preserving Santa Cruz History In 1904, Santa Cruz lighthouse keeper and naturalist Laura Hecox gifted her vast collection of fossils, seashells, and other unique finds… Keep reading
Help protect wildlife in Santa Cruz: Support safe crossings and habitat connectivity
Mountain lions and other wildlife have become increasingly isolated as their habitats are fragmented due to urban and agricultural development in the valleys that surround… Keep reading
A mother’s trust and her son’s smile: How Dientes brings health and happiness to local families
Do you get nervous seeing the dentist? Now, picture not having access to one during a crisis. That is often the reality many families face… Keep reading
Seymour Marine Discovery Center: 25 years of creating scientists
Seymour Marine Discovery Center is in the business of creating scientists and we have 25 years of data to prove it. Young people who come… Keep reading
Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History Offers an antidote to social isolation
For almost three decades, the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History (MAH) has served as a cultural anchor, offering a platform for art, history,… Keep reading
Housing Matters: Build community, resolve homelessness
Since 1986, Housing Matters has been walking alongside individuals and families experiencing homelessness, partnering with them to find their own pathway to stable, permanent housing.… Keep reading
