volunteer opportunities
To get started, have a look at our volunteer opportunities below, and fill out a volunteer application.
For more information about our services, programs, and guiding philosophies, check out our Services page. If you have questions about volunteering in general, please contact our Human Resources and Volunteer Manager at smichels@santacruzhsc.org.
+–Kitchen assistant
The Kitchen Assistant assists cooks in their tasks. Performs other tasks such as assisting in food preparation, storing foods after delivery, and cleaning coolers, freezers, and storerooms. Assists in completing weekly kitchen cleaning and maintenance lists. Helps serve meals to our guests.
+–Mail room coordinator
The Mail Room Coordinator ensures that the incoming mail is collected, sorted, and distributed to the correct clients quickly and reliably. This position requires diligent volunteers who can sort through hundreds of pieces of mail accurately and efficiently. 10:00am to 2:00pm, Monday through Friday.
+–Front desk coordinator
The Front Desk Coordinator performs all duties necessary to ensure an efficient flow in the front office at Homeless Services Center. They have key interaction with staff, residents and other volunteers and must have the ability to provide the highest level of customer service. The FDC oversees and facilitates all front office duties including, but not limited to, greeting/checking-in residents, answering phones, helping our development department and helping people with resources. FDCs must possess organizational, analytical and problem solving skills and excellent written, verbal and interpersonal skills. 8:00am to 12:00pm or 12:00pm to 4:00pm, Monday through Friday.
+–Supportive services for veterans families (SSVF) support volunteer
The Supportive Services for Veterans Families (SSVF) Support Volunteer will be trained to be proficient and knowledgeable about Homeless Services Center programs and other community resources for veterans and their families experiencing homelessness. This position will work with the SSVF program both on and off campus. Must demonstrate effective communication skills. Will be trained in motivational interviewing and other resources. Will assist with pre-screenings, intake support, outreach opportunities and connecting people with veteran resources. Flexible hours – Monday through Friday.
+–Housing navigation support volunteer
The Housing Navigation Support Volunteer will work closely with Homeless Services Center Housing Navigators in order to assist clients on their housing pathway. This will include assistance with housing applications, conducting credit checks, and searching online property listings. Volunteers may also support clients with challenges like computer proficiency, email use, basic writing skills, etc. Volunteers will assist in data collection, helping to track the length of time a client is searching for housing, number of searches completed, and landlord receptiveness to voucher programs. 10:00am to 2:00pm, Tuesday’s.
+–Hygiene bay attendant
The Hygiene Bay Attendant greets our guests and makes sure that they have all the toiletries and towels they need. Provides oversight to the day to day operations and has the ability to adapt to a fast-paced environment. Additional duties include washing the laundry/towels and light housekeeping of the general Hygiene Bay area. 9:00am to 1:00pm, Monday through Friday.