About Us

Our mission is to deliver essential services, provide equitable access to resources, and advocate for health and dignity across every stage of life.

Since 1977, Community Bridges has been a catalyst for a brighter future by delivering fundamental resources for the people of Santa Cruz County. Our family of ten vital programs across 20 different sites serves thousands of local children, families, and seniors each year. While each program is remarkable on its own, together we are unstoppable.

Every day, we empower participants to reach their full potential. Our programs give community members access to transportation, healthy food, health care, and senior adult day health care. We offer crises support, case management services, early education, grade school tutoring, as well as classes in breastfeeding, nutrition, parenting, and literacy. Most of these and other services we offer, are available at no cost.

Our values guide and shape daily decisions at all Community Bridges’ programs. They are the framework that enables us to develop effective programming, create change and better serve our clients.

To continue to provide these services and programs, thousands of individuals offer their support each year. Together, we are building the world we want to live in. Together, anything is possible.

View our 2025 Annual Report

Our Values: Commitment, Community, Compassion, Integrity, Respect, Support

Leadership Team

Administration

Ray Cancino

Raymon “Ray” Cancino
Chief Executive Officer
raymonc@cbridges.org

Doug Underhill

Douglas Underhill
Chief Finance Officer
douglasu@cbridges.org

Tyler Smith

Tyler Smith
Human Resources Director
tylers@cbridges.org

Photo coming soon

Michele Miller
Director of Business Operations
michelem@cbridges.org

Tony Nunez 2023

Tony Nuñez
Marketing and Communications Manager
tonyn@cbridges.org

Programs

Erika Rodriguez
Senior Program Manager, Child and Adult Care Food Program
erikar@cbridges.org

Lisa Hindeman Holbert

Lisa Hindman Holbert
Program Director, Early Education Division
lisah@cbridges.org

Dana Wagner - Program Director, WIC

Dana Wagner
Senior Program Director, WIC & Meals on Wheels for Santa Cruz County
danaw@cbridges.org

Mayra Melendrez
Program Director, Family Resource Collective
mayraf@cbridges.org

Lois Sones

Lois Sones
Program Director, Elderday
loiss@cbridges.org

Jesus Bojorquez
Program Director, Lift Line
jesusb@cbridges.org

The deadline is almost here.Make sure you file your taxes and claim the credits you’ve earned. Free, trusted support is still available to help you through the process.At Community Bridges, we’re committed to making sure everyone has access to the resources they deserve—on time and with dignity.Find help today: communitybridges.org/frc ... See MoreSee Less
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Happy 80th Birthday to our Board Chair, Jack Jacobson! 🎉Serving on our Board of Directors since 1982, Jack has been a steadfast and devoted leader, guiding our organization with wisdom, integrity, and heart. An accomplished local attorney, he has championed the rights and well-being of our community’s most vulnerable residents for more than 50 years.From helping secure our nonprofit status to supporting the growth of our ten programs, Jack’s legacy is woven into the fabric of all the work we do. His lifelong passion, leadership, and commitment to justice, equity, and community continue to inspire us, along with his great humor and heart.Please join us in celebrating Jack, an extraordinary advocate, leader, and friend. Whether by adding his legal expertise to our biggest projects, serving as the namesake of our annual volunteer award, or driving his '48 Chevy in the 4th of July parade, Jack is always there for us giving all he has. Happy Birthday, Jack! ... See MoreSee Less
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Join us for a FREE parenting workshop designed for families with young children (up to 5 years old). Learn simple, effective ways to help your child feel safe, confident, and secure.📅 Thursday, April 9, 2026🕕 6:00 – 7:30 PM📍 Nueva Vista Community Resources, Santa CruzIn this workshop, you’ll learn:✔️ Why separation can be difficult for young children✔️ How to support your child during transitions✔️ Tips to stay calm and confident during goodbyes✅ Free child care & light snacks providedReserve your spot: bit.ly/Separation-Apr9 ... See MoreSee Less
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6 days ago

Community Bridges / Puentes De La Comunidad
This Volunteer Month, we’re celebrating the compassion, connection, and care our volunteers bring across our programs. 💚This week, we’re proud to spotlight the Pantry Posse at Mountain Community Resources that creates meaningful moments of care and connection every day.Recently, a food pantry participant who had just lost their partner returned to one of our Family Resource Centers. Our volunteers had come together to send a condolence card, and he shared how deeply moved he was, saying he had no idea the volunteers cared so much.Moments like this show that the impact of volunteering goes far beyond food.“As we know, many people feel invisible in society,” shared one Pantry Manager. “In addition to food, we offer connection and the recognition that each person deserves support, no matter their circumstances.”Every story is different, but they all share the same heart: showing up, caring deeply, and building community.Follow along this month as we highlight volunteers across our programs, and learn more about Mountain Community Resources at communitybridges.org/mcr or sign up to volunteer at communitybridges.org/volunteerThank you to all of our incredible volunteers. 💚 ... See MoreSee Less
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The Eviction Defense Collaborative protects tenants in distress. Through our partnership with Community Bridges / Puentes De La Comunidad, the Conflict Resolution Center of Santa Cruz County, and Tenant Sanctuary, we are giving the community peace of mind. Read more on how Senior Legal Services is aiding the community through our latest Impact Report: www.seniorlegal.org/news-and-events/impact-report#seniorlegal #seniorlegalservices #seniorsrights #scgives #santacruzgives #volunteering #SeniorSupport ... See MoreSee Less
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50th Anniversary Meals on Wheels for Santa Cruz County - Community Bridges / Puentes de la Communidad logo

Celebrating 50 Years of Support

Join us at Food From the Heart to honor this legacy and support the future of senior care.

50th Anniversary Meals on Wheels for Santa Cruz County - Community Bridges / Puentes de la Communidad logo

Celebrating 50 Years of Support

Join us at Food From the Heart to honor this legacy and support the future of senior care.

Every Family Needs a Plan

Urge the Attorney General to adopt California’s Childcare Safety Plan.

This

giving tuesday

Strengthen
Our Roots

Since 1977, your generosity has helped our community grow stronger.