Support Parks & Recreation
Donate
Friends of Parks and Recreation
Donations to FOPAR help support programs like Jr. Lifeguards, the Santa Cruz Teen Center, the Senior Computer Center, our summer scholarship program and more!
Adopt

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(PDF, 55KB), 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(PDF, 55KB), arrange for an orientation, and fill out the volunteer assessment.
Volunteer

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. Volunteer with Parks and Recreation! We have numerous volunteer opportunities throughout the department.
Learn more and sign up here!
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.