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Become a Volunteer Today

Santa Cruz Surfrider is actively seeking volunteers to help protect our coastlines, water quality, beach access, and more. See all opportunities below >>

Executive Committee Elections Happening Now
The Surfrider Santa Cruz Chapter is seeking dedicated volunteers to join our Executive Committee.
Help guide our programs, shape local advocacy, and strengthen our mission to protect the coast.
Learn more now >>

Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities

Want to get involved, but not sure what role is the best fit?

Fill out our Volunteer Interest Form and tell us a little about yourself, your interests, and your availability. We'll help match you with a volunteer opportunity that fits your skills and schedule. Whether it’s leading beach cleanups, tabling events, or helping out behind the scenes—there’s a place for everyone in the movement to protect our ocean, waves, and beaches.

👉 Complete the Volunteer Interest Form

Or, email volunteercoordinator@santacruz.surfrider.org

High Priority Volunteer Opportunities

We value volunteers in all areas, but these roles are currently our top priority and highest need: 

Events Coordinator

As a Surfrider Events Coordinator, you’ll help plan and support events like chapter meetings, community gatherings, and tabling. This is a great opportunity to connect with others and grow Surfrider’s impact in the Santa Cruz area.

You’ll work closely with the Program Coordinator to research upcoming opportunities, coordinate materials, conduct outreach, assist with setup, and help staff events. You may also represent Surfrider at public tabling events and support day-of logistics.

Training and guidance are provided. We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers who can commit to supporting events for at least one year.

  • Volunteer type: Ongoing
  • Time commitment: Roughly 2-3 hours per week
  • How to get involved: Sign up here
Surfrider Santa Cruz Tabling Event

Social Media Coordinator/Helper

As a Volunteer Social Media Coordinator/Helper, you’ll play a key role in amplifying Surfrider Santa Cruz’s mission online—sharing updates on beach cleanups, water testing, and community events. This is a great opportunity to gain social media experience, support ocean conservation, and engage the Santa Cruz community.

This role involves creating and scheduling posts, tagging partner organizations, helping highlight volunteer efforts, and ensuring our social media channels stay active and engaging. You’ll collaborate with the communications team and help spread the word about Surfrider’s impact.

We’ll provide guidance and support for managing posts and using our social media platforms. We’re looking for someone who can commit to volunteering with us for at least a year.

  • Volunteer type: Ongoing
  • Time commitment: Roughly 2-3 hours per week
  • How to get involved: Sign up here
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Key Volunteer Opportunities

Discover more volunteer opportunities to support ocean conservation and make a lasting impact in our community:

Beach Guardian

Join our Beach Guardian program and help keep our coastlines clean—From Four Mile Beach to Sunset Beach, we need your help!

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BWTF Volunteer

Join our Blue Water Task Force (BWTF) to help monitor water quality, protect our oceans, and ensure clean, safe beaches.

BWTF OOB Sample Post Storm

Impact Ambassador

Join our Impact Ambassador Program to raise awareness about Surfrider’s core initiatives—such as beach clean-ups, ocean conservation, and plastic pollution reduction—and encourage the community to get involved!

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Policy Committee

Join our Policy Committee to help protect and shape the future of Santa Cruz's coastline through policy action and community engagement.

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Join The Largest Network Of Coastal Defenders In The World

Our volunteers are the lifeblood of the Surfrider Foundation. Join our network and help us tackle the issues that face our ocean, waves and beaches. Enter your information below and we'll connect you with the nearest Chapter or Club in your community.