“My brother saved a baby Owl ? from an eagle attack their were 2 baby Owls but unfortunately the eagle killed one before my brother could get to them, contact this wildlife rehabilitation group and they were very helpful and I’m greatful they took the baby Owl in I hope he makes a full recovery”
“Barrios Unidos is doing something truly special for the community. Annie, together with Nane and the team, has created a music program that is welcoming, inspiring, and genuinely transformative.
I came in with no real ability to play, and through their guidance, encouragement, and the supportive environment they’ve built, I’ve grown to the point where I can now play solos in songs. That kind of progress speaks volumes about the quality of the program and the people behind it.
What makes this place stand out is that it’s open to anyone who wants to join a band—no ego, no barriers, just real opportunity and passion for music. It’s rare to find a space that combines community, mentorship, and creativity in such an authentic way.
Highly recommend to anyone who has ever wanted to play music, no matter where you’re starting from.”
8:30AM - 12PM
250 California St, Santa Cruz
Community Services Non Profits
“I am so glad that I found WPENS. Not only has it provided a wonderful preschool experience for my kids, but it's also connected me with the most caring and helpful community that I know I will be a part of and that will help my kids grow for many many years. My elder daughter attended 2020 - 2022 and not only did she love it, it also made the transition to TK super easy. My younger daughter is currently enrolled and it's been so fun to see her come out of her shell and form these amazing little friendships with her classmates over the last 4 months. These are definitely going to be friends for a long time. Teacher Cory is an absolute gem - both my children love her to pieces and she is the most caring and so good about focusing on the kids. Being part of a co-op is more work than a drop-off pre-school, but it's so fun to get to know all the kids, and also for our kids to get to have a whole community of parents that they know and trust.”
12:00 PM - 7:00 PM
150 Jewell St, Santa Cruz
Community Services Non Profits
“I was invited there for bingo. Didn't know what to expect, but the area was clean and well lit. Everyone was friendly and helpful. There was food there for sale, will definitely go again.”
“This place is awesome. They even have a vegetarian option every day and you can get 2nds and 3rds. They do a great job of maintaining order among everyone and keeping everything clean and healthy.”
“Cute, cozy space with lots of information and resources for everyone, at any age. Tons of different events. Wonderful staff. I have gone a few times for yoga and had great experiences.”
“I have been going through one of the most difficult and overwhelming times in my life, and this center and the staff have truly helped me more than anyone and anything. I am deeply grateful for this place.”
“Awesome people that leave you with your dignity intact. I believe the lady I worked with was named Jennifer or Jenny? Anyways she was a super kind human being and was great to work with!”
“A blessing in our community. These kids are amazing. They provided meals to my mother during her battle with cancer. Having nutritional meal choices gave her a better quality of life. It was a great help and provided us with great nutritional food, which in turn gave me more quality time with my mother. Awesome job folks. Thank you and thank you again.”
10AM - 2:30PM
543 Center St, Santa Cruz
Community Services Non Profits
“Excellent staff at this location. They honestly care about the kids there. I would definitely recommend the Boys and Girls Club to anyone needing a safe place for their children to go.”
“The best thing about this place is that the pricing is usually realistic. And they often have '50% off' days.
Remember - this is a thrift store so you often have to wait for the right 'find' - but that's all part of the fun.”
“Thank you so much for doing all that you guys did for me & taylor. Most kind hearted people you will meet. Trying their hardest to make things work even with the most difficult of people they meet day in and day out. <3 god bless you.”
“this place has truly been a Godsend for my son and I. Thank you Wayne for opening it up for us women who need a helping hand getting on our feet. It is a safe place for us to come and have our babies and establish a foundation so that we don't have to be on the streets at such a crucial time. Here, we can gain an understanding of our previous situations and move on to something better then our previous way of living.. xoxo”
“It's a Friday and I'm here when most people are at work. Despite the cold weather, the few people I have encountered make the place warm. I'm happy to see signs expressing openness to diversity. I was also glad to see a bookstore, something I know is dying in some if not most parts of the world.”
“A pretty nice thrift store ! Found what I needed quickly. They have a 50% off sale every 2nd Saturday ! Good stuff. Reasonable prices on most stuff. Fairly good quality items. They also have a return policy for store credit if your item doesn't work or has a problem. Great ! A great resource for the Santa Cruz area. When I need something, I always check Gray Bears first !”
“You're probably wondering who goes to a library in this day and age. Well this guy right here does, guilty as charged. Like most libraries, this place is an interesting cross-section of well to do and the charismatic. There aren't many places where you can find elderly retirees arguing over late fees with librarians while the homeless surreptitiously try to sleep at the tables. I wanted to write this review, because I assume the library underwent a renovation last year when they had to close due to covid. It is much brighter and feels cleaner inside than I remember. The tables were polished as well. The staff from what I have experienced and seen is very nice and always helpful to patrons who need help with computers or finding a book. Although it's not a large library, but they have a lot to offer. Really has an old school feel of a community library .”
“It is a great place to receive help and find different programs to fulfill your needs. You can get medical help, housing or even help with recovery. It's really great the only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because there are drugs in the area and all the people around the area bring it down. If you're a recovering addict like myself and my husband it really tests you each and everyday. So if you're not really strong in your recovery then I would steer clear and if you are and are having a bad day stay away. If you're looking for that start or opportunity to change your life here is the best place to start.”
“i've had trouble dropping off goodwill items at other donation centers in town -- sometimes they are too busy or seem annoyed by more stuff. this donation center is easy, convenient, and i've been treated with great customer service.”
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
345 Lake Ave # A, Santa Cruz
Community Services Non Profits
“Great place all around! They do so much more than you can ever imagine and are always looking for volunteers, from what I hear, as it states on the website. Volunteering for them has been wonderful. Not this specific district but overall with the Red Cross, they have been very kind to me. Definitely something to look into if you have any down time! Thanks ARC!”
7:30AM - 11:30PM
707 Fair Ave, Santa Cruz
Community Services Non Profits
“From the minute I arrived at New Life I felt like I was home. The staff are kind and compassionate, emitting a loving & encouraging energy that helps relieve the anxieties of abstinence. The clients are awesome too, it’s a very friendly & open atmosphere. Classes are helpful, food is good, and the location is great - 7mins walk to W. Cliff & the beach!”
“The shop was busy so I didn't stay. However I know the Bike Church is an incredible place to find help and learn to maintain your bike. It has that Santa Cruz vibe people know and love. I would recommend anyone that has questions, needs help, or would like to donate...check it out! Remember, to pay it forward.”