May is Mental Health Awareness Month — and the perfect time to volunteer! Giving back is one of the best ways to boost your well-being, helping reduce stress, ease loneliness, build purpose, and strengthen your sense of connection. With over 180 volunteer opportunities through the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County, there’s truly something for everyone. You’ll discover plenty of ways to get involved, meet new people, and help keep our community thriving. Here’s the top ten ways you can connect for good:

1. Be the Difference Awards — May 14

Join us to celebrate 50+ extraordinary volunteers making Santa Cruz shine. Get Tickets today!

2. Take Action for AmeriCorps

Federal cuts threaten national service programs like AmeriCorps — we need your voice. Learn how these cuts will affect you, then call your elected officials to help protect these vital services.

AmeriCorps makes an impact right here at home — mentoring youth, supporting seniors, and helping neighbors in need. And when disaster strikes, we rely on AmeriCorps NCCC teams to run shelters, dig mud, and rebuild our community. This vital program is under threat – but you can help! Learn more https://scvolunteercenter.org/we-need-your-help-to-save-americorps-now/ Credit: Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County

3. Celebrate Potential — May 21

Volunteer at this inspiring event hosted by Community Connections for Mental Health. Help honor individuals on their wellness journey, celebrate with program participants, Volunteer Center staff, and mental and behavioral health leaders from the community. 

4. Adult Literacy Tutors

Help adults improve their English skills and open doors to better jobs and connection. Free online info sessions: May 15 and May 21.

Literacy tutors are transforming lives! Volunteer tutors help adults build English skills, boosting confidence, job opportunities, and connection in our community. Join an upcoming info session to learn how you can get involved! Credit: Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County

5. Healthy Connection Food Distribution Program

Pack grocery bags for program participants every Monday, 10 am–12 pm in Santa Cruz. Volunteers needed at least once a month.

6. Garden Volunteer at Community Connection

Nurture mental wellness and community connection by supporting a therapeutic garden group.

7. Socialize Dogs and Cats at the Animal Shelter

It’s undeniable – caring for animals is great for mental health. The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is seeking volunteers to exercise and socialize dogs and cats – it’s win win for you and the animals! 

8. Become a Mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters

Make a life-changing difference for a child or youth by becoming a Big Brother or Big Sister. Volunteer for a few hours, two to four times a month!

9. Visit Isolated Seniors

Volunteer with I You Venture to brighten the lives of seniors in care facilities through crafts, games, music, and companionship.

10. Peer Mentors for Neurodivergent and Disabled Individuals

Support local residents as a compassionate peer with The Rainbow Family Resource Center.

Help Keep This Work Going
Volunteers make Santa Cruz County stronger every day — but they can’t do it alone. The Volunteer Center is a nonprofit organization that relies on the community for support through time, advocacy, and donations – and raising prices plus government funding cuts are threatening essential programs that such as senior services, youth leadership, and adult literacy.

Donate today and help sustain the work that keeps our community connected!

ABOUT THE VOLUNTEER CENTERThe Volunteer Center is the home for giving back in Santa Cruz County. We make it easy for dreamers, doers, and activists to give back with time, wisdom, actions, networks, and voices. Subscribe to our monthly volunteer news to stay in the know about how you can make an impact in Santa Cruz County.

Together, we will continue to strengthen our beloved community—where everyone belongs, neighbors help neighbors, and we choose to be the difference. 

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