We are so grateful that you are interested in helping us deliver critical services and programs that build well-being in our center and our community. The Diversity Center is a vibrant and central part of LGBTQ+ life in Santa Cruz County, and our volunteers are integral to supporting our work. Volunteering is a great way to get involved, meet new people, and give back. We are seeking folks for not only one-day special events but also recurring volunteer positions.

Qualifications

  • Must be 18 years-old or older

  • Must participate in fingerprint screening

  • Be able to adhere to strict rules of confidentiality & respect

  • Be able to work effectively with people of diverse backgrounds

  • Be able to adhere to agency’s protocols, procedures, and policies

Application Process

  1. Submit a volunteer application 

  2. A staff member will reach out to you to set up a phone interview 

  3. If accepted, you will be invited to attend a volunteer orientation & training (if applicable)

  4. You may need to complete a live-scan background check, which costs $38 (you will not be turned away for an inability to pay this fee). We can not accept volunteers who have been convicted of a violent crime. Volunteer applications with reports of other criminal history will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. 

Opportunities

After being accepted as a volunteer, you will have access to all TDC volunteer opportunities.

Opportunities include :

  • Board Member - The Diversity Center’s Board of Directors are responsible for guiding the center's long-term vision and planning. The Board also oversees the executive director, focuses on the continued financial stability of The Diversity Center, and participates meaningfully in fundraising efforts.

  • Host - Welcome The Diversity Center visitors during business hours and respond to program inquiries and requests for referrals from our community members.

  • Triangle Speaker - Our Triangle speakers raise awareness and foster understanding for the LGBTQ+ community by using storytelling to dismantle prejudice and discrimination. Since 1991, churches, schools, civic organizations, places of worship, businesses, and government agencies have been hosting Triangle Speakers panels.

  • Special Events - The Diversity Center puts on a variety of events including our annual Gala. Our volunteers have put in countless hours supporting our community events included but not limited to Queer Prom, Queer Youth Leadership Awards, as well as various health and community fairs, events, and fundraisers.

  • Group Facilitator - Our facilitators run adult groups including AA, Veterans, Genderqueer, Transgender and Rainbow Families. If you have an idea for a group for our queer community please let us know in your application.

  • Professional Services - We are currently looking for folks with professional skills in any of the following fields: Marketing, Building Maintenance, Construction, Gardening, Interior Design, Professional Organizing, Web Design, Fundraising, etc.

If you have any specific questions about the volunteer positions or the application process, please contact our volunteer program by e-mailing volunteers@diversitycenter.org.