Support our Parks and Recreation programs by donating to Friends of Parks and Recreation (FOPAR). All donations go directly to the program.

Friends of Parks and Recreation Programs:

Jr. Guard Boosters

Year-Round Scholarships

Senior Computer Center

Santa Cruz Teen Center

London Nelson Community Center

Captain Corps

Juneteenth 

Parks

Lawn Bowling at San Lorenzo Park

Other Programs 

The Parks & Recreation Department is committed to creating opportunities for our community to support our Parks through our adopt-a-park program. We recognize we have passionate, resourceful residents who care about their Parks and want to be involved in bettering the community.  

Groups or Organizations:

Whether you’re part of a business or nonprofit organization, we could use your help! You can apply for a one-time project, such as a beach clean-up, or for on-going assistance, such as graffiti removal along the San Lorenzo River Corridor. Volunteers will be assigned a staff liaison to assist in orienting, training, and providing special equipment or resources to ensure your success.

Individuals:

Simply complete an individual park adoption form, arrange for an orientation, and fill out the volunteer assessment.

Volunteer with Parks and Recreation! We have numerous volunteer opportunities throughout the department. 

More information or to sign up

Available Volunteer Opportunities: 

• Jr. Captain Corps Program
• Jr. Leader Summer Camps Program
• London Nelson Community Center
• Parks volunteer
• Santa Cruz Civic Auditorium
• Santa Cruz Teen Center
• Santa Cruz Wharf 
• Senior Computer Center 
• Senior Programs
• Recreation Events
• Sports

CitySERVE is a partnership between the Volunteer Centers of Santa Cruz County and the City of Santa Cruz. CitySERVE serves as a matchmaker, placing interested community members with City programs. CitySERVE staff also works to promote the use of volunteers throughout the City, actively supporting the development of new volunteer programs within local government.

Why Volunteer?
Everyone has different motivations for volunteering. Volunteering can give you a new skill, help you meet new people, or prepare you for a future career. Volunteering will always give you the satisfaction of doing important work for your community.

Simply put, volunteering enriches your life and the lives of those around you, and makes a difference in your community.