By Shawn Peterson, Executive Director, Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County

At the Volunteer Center, our mission is simple: connect people for good. As I step into the role of Executive Director, I am deeply honored to help lead and strengthen our community’s long-standing spirit of neighbors helping neighbors.

Taking the helm of this organization means standing on the shoulders of giants. I want to recognize the extraordinary legacy of Karen Delaney, whose 44 years of visionary leadership transformed the Volunteer Center into a national model for civic engagement. And, to our remarkable volunteers, donors, and 300+ partner agencies: thank you for being the true heartbeat of Santa Cruz County.

So whether you have five minutes or five days a week, I invite you to join me and our community in service today: explore our Top 10 featured volunteer opportunities for August below or visit scvolunteercenter.org to find your volunteer match.

  1. Become a Volunteer Literacy Tutor
    Empower an adult neighbor by helping them learn to read, write, or speak English. Join an upcoming Zoom orientation to get started—no prior teaching experience required! Learn More + Sign Up Here!
  2. Support Local Community Radio at KBCZ Music Fest
    Celebrate 10 years on the air with KBCZ 89.3 FM! Join the crew at Garrahan Park in Boulder Creek on Saturday, August 29th. Volunteers are needed for stage hands, admission, setup/breakdown, parking, and concessions. All volunteers receive free full-day event admission. Sign Up Here!
  3. Walk to End Alzheimer’s: Help with logistics and walk alongside families raising awareness. Register Here
  4. Historic Beach Hill Tour Guide: Lead walking tours showcasing coastal Santa Cruz history. Become a Guide
  5. San Lorenzo Valley Museum Docent: Guide school field trips and share local heritage with kids. Volunteer Here
  6. Elephant Seal Tour Leader at Año Nuevo: Share local wildlife wonders with visitors. Lead Tours
  7. Capitola Historical Museum Docent: Welcome visitors and keep beach town history alive. Join as a Docent
  8. Library Advisory Council of Teens: Help local youth shape library programs and advocate for peers. Sign Up
  9. Support Group Childcare Volunteer: Provide safe care for kids while parents attend support groups. Help Families
  10. Youth League Soccer Coach: Teach teamwork and outdoor sports skills to local youth. Coach Today
Volunteer at the KBCZ 89.3 FM Music Fest on Saturday, August 29th at Garrahan Park, and stay to dance to the roots-rock sounds of headliners The Coffis Brothers! Volunteers receive free full-day admission. Credit: Bethany Johanna

With gratitude,

Shawn Peterson, MSML

Executive Director
Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County

About the Volunteer Center

At the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County, we connect people for good because meaningful service is the heart of a strong, vibrant community and a healthy, happy life.

For 60 years, Santa Cruz County has trusted the Volunteer Center to help people connect for good, turning compassion into belonging and lasting impact. Our vision is a community where giving is the way of life — where everyone’s gifts matter, kindness is celebrated, and together we build a stronger, healthier, more connected community where everyone thrives.

Learn more at scvolunteercenter.org

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