April is National Volunteer Appreciation Month, a time to celebrate and recognize the contributions volunteers make in their communities. It’s an opportunity to encourage more people to get involved with organizations by giving for a few hours a day, a week or on an ongoing basis.
It was not long after UC Santa Cruz was founded in 1965 that the Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County (VCSCC) was founded in 1967. Their primary goal was to give the community a voice to the most disenfranchised in Santa Cruz County, including seniors, individuals incarcerated, youth and adults unable to read. Initially led by three women in the early days, VCSCC is currently led by alumna Karen Delaney (Rachel Carson, ‘81).
A partnership between UC Santa Cruz and VCSCC was formed that continues today. Over the years campus leaders have served as board members, participated on selection committees for the annual "Be the Difference" Awards, and groups have been involved around the county. Students, staff, faculty and alumni have contributed thousands of hours of service throughout Santa Cruz County.
If you are looking to engage with the community through volunteerism, we encourage people to find out what volunteer opportunities exist. Click on this link, see what interests you, and sign up. We are committed to continuing this tradition and invite others to be a part of the greater good that comes from helping one another.
If you are unable to participate in volunteerism during the month of April, there is going to be a Santa Cruz County-wide opportunity to Pitch In on May 10th to eliminate litter. For more information on how you can help clean up Santa Cruz Community please sign up to become a Trash Talker.
