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CitySERVE: City of Santa Cruz
Volunteer Program with City Government
City of Santa Cruz: CitySERVE Program
About CitySERVE
Since the mid 1990's, the CitySERVE Volunteer Program is the volunteer program of the City of Santa Cruz. 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 staff who want to work with volunteers. CitySERVE staff also works to promote the use of volunteers throughout the City, actively supporting the development of new volunteer programs within local government.
CitySERVE staff will personally interview community members who are interested in volunteering with local government. During this interview we will discuss your interests and brainstorm about a good volunteer position for you. After the interview CitySERVE staff will work with City staff to find you a good place to volunteer where your help will be appreciated.
CitySERVE has a variety of volunteer opportunities available throughout the year. We offer short-term, long-term, internships, and special project opportunities. Call the CitySERVE office today to schedule an interview. Please note: If you don't see a position here that interests you - don't worry! We can often create a position that fits your needs and skills.
How do I become a volunteer?
The first step is to call CitySERVE to set up an appointment for an interview. If you are interested in a technical or career development volunteer position, it would be helpful if you brought a resume to the interview. If you are a student or recent graduate who is interested in an internship with the City of Santa Cruz, a resume and statement of interest is required.
What types of volunteer positions are there at the City of Santa Cruz?
We have a huge variety of volunteer positions at the City of Santa Cruz. From front dest volunteers at the Museum of Natural History to volunteer computer instructors for the Downtown Seniors program, we have volunteer positions for a variety of interests. Check out the Open Volunteer Positions to see where we especially need help right now. We also offer a variety of student internships and can plan group volunteer projects.
What if I am unsure about what volunteer position is right for me?
Call the Volunteer Coordinator at 420-5403. We will do our best to find you a rewarding place to volunteer.
How many hours will I be expected to volunteer?
Time commitment and schedule depends upon the volunteer position you are interested in. Generally interns volunteer between 8 and 10 hours per week. Volunteers in other positions vary greatly; some volunteer only a few hours per month while others volunteer as many as 20 hours per week.
Will my volunteer position lead to a job with the City of Santa Cruz?
No, not without going through an application process. As a public agency, when hiring, we must abide by the Civil Service code. The City of Santa Cruz (unlike private business) cannot hire people just because they are working as a volunteer. However, experience in the field you would like to be hired in is a tremendous boost for your application and many former local government volunteers are now public employees.
What is the difference between a volunteer and an intern?
An intern is a very specific type of volunteer. Interns are looking to gain hands on experience in their field of interest and have a specific career related goal in mind.
Do you have to be a student to intern?
No! CitySERVE works to create internships
For More Information Contact
Alicia Dayton-420-5403
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