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:

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  • Mail or In-Person: Submit your application at 519 Main Street, Watsonville, CA 95076 (Open Monday-Friday, 9 AM to 5 PM).

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 local 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.

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.

Volunteer Matching

Freedom is not just a moment in history—it’s an ongoing commitment.On Emancipation Day, we honor the resilience of those who fought for liberation and reflect on the work that continues today. True freedom is rooted in dignity, equity, and opportunity for all.As a community, we move forward by uplifting one another, removing barriers, and ensuring every person has access to the resources they need to thrive.#EmancipationDay #EquityInAction #CommunityBridges ... See MoreSee Less
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🌻 Save the Date! 🌻We’re thrilled to invite everyone to the 11th Annual Farm to Fork Gala supporting Community Bridges!🍴🍷 Our Farm to Fork Gala celebrates the collective impact of our ten programs and the community that makes this work possible. For nearly 50 years, Community Bridges has strengthened local children, families, and seniors through programs that nourish bodies, support mental health, and build connections across generations. Enjoy an elegant evening featuring regional wines, seasonal cuisine, live music, and exciting live and silent auctions in a beautiful coastal setting.📅 Saturday, June 27, 2026📍 Seascape Golf Club, AptosTickets available at: communitybridges.org/farmtoforkMark your calendars and stay tuned for more upcoming announcements! 💚#FarmToForkGala #CommunityBridges #SaveTheDate #SantaCruzCounty #SupportLocalFamilies ... See MoreSee Less
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There’s still time—and support is here.If you haven’t filed your taxes yet, you’re not alone. Our team is here to help you file for free, access eligible credits, and navigate the process without stress or judgment.Every dollar matters—and these resources are here for you.Don’t wait—get connected today: communitybridges.org/frc ... See MoreSee Less
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This Volunteer Month, we’re celebrating the creativity, care, and connection our volunteers bring to every program. 💚Today, we’re proud to spotlight Bhavya Mohan, who has been sharing art and joy at Elderday Adult Day Health Care through watercolor, pastels, and coloring.Over the past year, what began as a simple way to give back has grown into something much deeper. By taking the time to understand what each participant enjoys, Bhavya creates a calming, welcoming space where everyone feels seen and valued.Moments like these remind us that the impact of volunteering goes far beyond the activity itself—it’s about connection, presence, and creating meaningful experiences that stay with people long after the session ends.Every story is unique, 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. Learn more about Elderday at communitybridges.org or sign up to volunteer at communitybridges.org/volunteer.#VolunteerMonth #RippleEffect #StartSmallBigImpact #communitybridges #elderday ... 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.

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giving tuesday

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