Volunteer

Make a Difference with Community Bridges

Volunteers are the heart of Community Bridges, helping us deliver vital services across Santa Cruz County. With 10 programs operating at 20 locations, there are countless ways to get involved from delivering meals to seniors, distributing food to families, or tutoring students in our after-school programs.

If you’re 18 or older, applying is easy:

Volunteers under 18 must submit their application in person. Download our online application by clicking on the links below:

How You Can Help

Meals on Wheels for Santa Cruz County

Make a meaningful impact by delivering meals and companionship to seniors in need. With 1,700 seniors relying on our services, your time helps foster independence, dignity, and community.

  • Deliver Meals: Provide essential nutrition and friendly visits to seniors across Santa Cruz County. Flexible routes fit your schedule.
  • Senior Dining Sites: Assist in the kitchen or serve meals at locations in Ben Lomond, Santa Cruz, or Watsonville.
  • Support Operations: Help with logistics at our headquarters to ensure efficient meal delivery to local seniors.

Elderday Adult Day Health Care

Empower local older adults: At Elderday, we provide exceptional day services for adults with complex medical conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, Parkinson’s, dementia, and more. But Elderday is about more than health care — it’s a place where connection and creativity thrive.

We’re seeking volunteers to share their talents:

  • Teach art, music, yoga, Zumba, and writing classes.
  • Support staff-led activities such as crafts, dancing, karaoke, or reading groups.
  • Lead beginner English classes.

Mountain Community Resources – Felton/San Lorenzo Valley

Distribute food to families: In partnership with Second Harvest Food Bank, we provide free supplemental groceries and promote nutritional awareness to support our community. Join us every Thursday from 10:30 to 11:30 AM to access fresh, healthy food and helpful resources for you and your family.

Nueva Vista Community Resources – Santa Cruz

Tutor low-income children: Join us at the Beach Flats Community Center in empowering local elementary and middle school students with homework assistance across all subjects. Our after-school program provides a supportive environment where students can thrive academically and build confidence.

La Manzana Community Resources – Watsonville/Pajaro

Mentoring at-risk youth: The Aztecas Youth Soccer Academy combines a competitive soccer program with academic support to empower at-risk youth in Watsonville and the Pajaro Valley. We actively seek volunteers year-round to provide tutoring and mentorship, helping participants succeed both on and off the field. Your involvement can make a meaningful difference in the lives of these young athletes as they strive for academic and personal growth.

Help feed local students: Each summer, we provide nutritious lunches to children in South Santa Cruz County through the USDA’s Summer Food Service Program. Our Summer Lunch initiative ensures that kids who might not have access to meals while school is out receive balanced and healthy food. Join us in supporting the health and well-being of local youth by volunteering to serve meals and make a positive impact this summer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Visit communitybridges.org/programs to explore each program’s mission, vision, values, and the communities we serve.

Our team works with vulnerable populations every day. Background checks help ensure the safety and well-being of our participants, reflecting Community Bridges’ commitment to trust, integrity, and our core values.

Wear professional, workplace-appropriate clothing. Avoid items that are political, offensive, or insensitive.

It depends on the role. Volunteers like drivers, musicians, or teachers may benefit from prior experience, while others will receive training directly from our staff.

For general inquiries, call us at 831-688-8840 or email recruitments@cbridges.org. For specific program questions, ask our front desk to connect you with the appropriate team member.

Whoohoo! Congratulations to La Manzana Community Resources graduates of the Digital Literacy classes! ... See MoreSee Less
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Meals on Wheels is working to provide nutritious meals to seniors in need. There are many ways YOU can get involved and make a lasting impact on the lives of older adults in our community:🙌 Volunteer: Your time is priceless! Whether you’re delivering meals, helping with meal prep, or offering companionship, your support is crucial in ensuring no senior goes without. Volunteering is a hands-on way to directly give back and make a real difference. Communitybridges.org/volunteer 💰 Donate: Every dollar counts! Your donation helps provide healthy, nutritious meals for seniors who need them most. With your support, we can continue to serve those who depend on us for nourishment and care. Communitybridges.org/national-nutrition-month📢 Share This Post: Spread the word and raise awareness about the importance of good nutrition for seniors. By sharing, you help inspire others to get involved and make a difference in their own way.Together, we can help fight hunger, nourish our community, and build a stronger, healthier future for all. Whether you volunteer your time, donate, or help spread awareness, every action matters. Will you join us? 💙#NationalNutritionMonth #MealsOnWheels #Volunteer #FightHunger ... See MoreSee Less
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Congratulations 🎉🎉🎉 to Susan Rodriguez for being selected as our March Employee of the Month! Susan, our HR Administrative Assistant, is an incredible support team member. 🤗 She consistently delivers exceptional service with a smile, always showing kindness and care. 🤗Thank you, Susan for helping us and being part of the Community Bridges family! ... See MoreSee Less
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As food prices rise and families face growing challenges, Meals on Wheels continues to play a critical role in fighting hunger and promoting lifelong health for seniors. During National Nutrition Month, we highlight the importance of good nutrition and how it impacts the lives of those in need. By delivering nutritious, freshly prepared meals directly to seniors' homes, we’re not just filling bellies—we’re helping seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and well-being. Each meal we provide is designed to support their unique dietary needs, ensuring they get the nourishment they need to stay healthy.Together, we’re building healthier futures, stronger communities, and ensuring that no senior goes without the nutrition they need to thrive. This month, let’s celebrate the power of good nutrition and the difference it makes in the lives of our older adults. 💚🍎🥦 #EndHunger #StrongerCommunities #HealthyFutures #NationalNutritionMonth #MealsOnWheels ... See MoreSee Less
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🌟 Taller Virtual GRATUITO: Ayudando a los Adolescentes a Manejar la Ansiedad 🌟🗓 Fecha: Martes, 18 de marzo de 2025 ⏰Hora: 6:00 – 7:30 pm Dirigido a familias con adolescentes de 13 a 16 años, este taller en español te brindará herramientas clave para apoyar a tu hijo en el manejo de la ansiedad.Lo que aprenderás:- Causas comunes y señales de ansiedad en los adolescentes- Qué hacer si tu adolescente está ansioso- Consejos prácticos para desarrollar habilidades saludables para sobrellevar la ansiedadPresentado por: Mayra Martinez, Puentes de la Comunidad – La Mazana Recursos Comunitarios🔗 Inscríbete aquí: bit.ly/Ansiedad-18Mar ¡No faltes! ¡Te esperamos! ... See MoreSee Less
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