Community Resources
Local Santa Cruz community resources
In addition to being located in one of the most beautiful regions of California, UC Santa Cruz is surrounded by a vibrant, supportive small-town community. The Santa Cruz area is home to a range of organizations that offer services and resources to support students, families, and residents. From legal aid and youth programming to mental health services and cultural events, these organizations reflect the diversity and care of the broader Santa Cruz community.
Explore the listings below to find support, get involved, or learn more about the local area. Click each organization’s title to visit their website.
Barrios Unidos
Barrios Unidos builds a foundation for peace, healing, and community development. With a long-term vision of establishing an Institute for Peace, the organization supports local and national efforts for restorative justice and community healing.
The Walnut Avenue Women’s Center
For more than 75 years, Walnut Avenue has worked to improve the well-being of women, children, and families in Santa Cruz County through holistic and trauma-informed support programs focused on economic, emotional, and physical health.
Community Bridges
Serving over 27,000 residents annually, Community Bridges strengthens community through essential services and programs for children, families, and seniors. Their work includes academic support, health access, family support, and senior advocacy.
Santa Cruz Human Services Department
This department provides essential safety net services, including child and adult protection, basic needs support, job training, and employment assistance to help individuals and families achieve self-sufficiency.
Santa Cruz County
The county’s official website provides access to a wide range of departments and services. It’s a great place to find information and get connected to the right resource for your needs.
Community Connection
A program of the Volunteer Center, Community Connection supports adults and families in the Santa Cruz County Mental Health System of Care. Their strength-based services focus on employment, education, peer support, and community integration.
Santa Cruz Volunteer Center
The Volunteer Center empowers people to “Be the Difference” by connecting them to local service opportunities. Whether you’re looking to volunteer, need volunteers, or want to stay informed about local issues, this center is your go-to resource.
The Boys & Girls Club
Providing afterschool and summer programming for youth ages 6–18, the Boys & Girls Club focuses on academic success, leadership development, and recreation. It offers safe, supportive spaces for fun, learning, and growth.
Encompass Community Services
Offering bilingual, culturally responsive services since 1973, Encompass supports youth, families, and individuals through mental health, substance use recovery, family development, and community wellness programs.
California Rural Legal Assistance
CRLA provides legal support to low-income residents in areas such as housing rights, fair wages, education access, and public benefits. Their work helps ensure equitable treatment and access to justice.
Santa Cruz Immigration Project
This project helps immigrant families gain legal status, access U.S. citizenship, and understand their rights through legal assistance, advocacy, and community education.
The Davenport Resource Service Center
Serving North Coast residents, the center offers culturally responsive support through prevention services, emergency aid, and community programs for individuals of all ages.
Diversity Center of Santa Cruz
The Diversity Center supports the LGBTQ+ community with information, resources, and referrals in areas including healthcare, legal services, mental health, domestic violence support, and more.
Family Service Agency of the Central Coast
Providing counseling, suicide prevention, and wellness services, the Family Service Agency serves people of all ages and backgrounds across Santa Cruz, Monterey, and San Benito counties with inclusive, professional support.
Santa Cruz Neighbors
This citywide nonprofit builds neighborhood engagement through partnerships with local institutions, government, and businesses. It represents neighborhood interests and strengthens community voices.
Want to Suggest a Resource?
If there are any additional local Santa Cruz resources you know of that you would like for us to feature on this page, contact us at elcentro@ucsc.edu.
