Discover holiday magic in Downtown Santa Cruz with free, family-friendly events for all ages. Enjoy parades, Santa visits, craft afternoons, movies, and support local businesses.
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Building Bright Futures
The Lasting Impact of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Cruz County Since 1969, the Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Cruz County (BGCSCC) has been a cornerstone for local youth in the area. Over the years, the organization has grown to serve more than 40,000 young people across three Clubhouses in Santa Cruz, Live Oak, and Scotts Valley. Its mission is to inspire and empower all youth, especially those who need it most, to build character and confidence and reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible citizens. The Club provides welcoming spaces filled with enriching programs and mentorship to meet the needs of the community. From…
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Prepared, Empowered And United For Santa Cruz County
At its heart, United Way of Santa Cruz County is about connection: helping families find support, preparing neighbors to face challenges, and empowering youth to lead. This fall, as families settle into school routines and think about safety at home, we are reminded that resilience comes from the strength of our community. Preparedness In Action Santa Cruz County has faced its share of wildfires, storms, and earthquakes. Being prepared for the unexpected isn’t just about checklists; it’s about knowing where to turn and who you can count on. Through United4Community, United Way provides resources that make preparedness practical and approachable. One of our favorite tools is the Listos California Neighborhood…
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Jasmine Nájera’s Journey of Service and Leadership
Jasmine Nájera’s path has been deeply rooted in the values of service, community, and empowerment. As someone who knows the heart of Santa Cruz, she is dedicated to nurturing its spirit through her leadership as CEO of Pájaro Valley Prevention and Student Assistance (PVPSA). Her journey is a powerful testament to resilience, mentorship, and social justice—shaped by a strong family legacy of giving back and uplifting others. From an early age, Jasmine knew that her life wouldn’t be just about personal success—it would be about helping others. Inspired by powerful role models in her family, she quickly recognized her calling to serve. In her household, service wasn’t just a value;…
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Youth Leading Change in Santa Cruz County
What makes a community thrive? At United Way of Santa Cruz County, we believe it starts by listening to young people, walking alongside them, and trusting them to lead. Every year, hundreds of youth across our county step into leadership roles through United Way of Santa Cruz County’s countywide United4Youth initiative. United 4Youth unites our youth-focused programs under a shared vision: to uplift youth voice, expand access to resources, and champion youth well-being. From Watsonville to Scotts Valley, youth are co-creating a stronger, more connected community, one where all young people are seen, supported, and empowered. United4Youth brings together four core programs under this vision: The Youth Action Network, where…
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Caroline’s Non Profit Thrift Shop Changes Lives
Nestled in the heart of Aptos, “Caroline’s Non Profit Thrift Shop” is more than a store, it is a space for hope, healing, and happiness. What started as a mother’s tribute to her daughter blossomed into a community that impacts lives in Santa Cruz County and beyond. The shop was inspired by Caroline, Christy Licker’s daughter who passed away at the young age of sixteen. Three and a half years after her passing, Christy landed on an idea to navigate healing and honor the life of Caroline. “I wanted to celebrate all the things she was and all the things I learned from her,” Christy shares. That idea became Caroline’s…
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Building a Thriving Santa Cruz County for Our Youth
Santa Cruz County leader and philanthropist Diane Porter Cooley (1928-2022) knew what it takes to build a thriving community, and she left us instructions. “Community is about living life together. It’s about getting through hard times, floods, and fire; camping with girl scouts; serving meals and building clinics; helping kids and planting trees.” Diane and her husband Don were some of the founding members of Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, a center for giving where people can make philanthropic contributions that have a lasting impact. Since 1982, generous families have empowered $279 million in local grants and scholarships, including $2 million in the Foundation’s 2025 Community Grants. This annual initiative…
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New CEO Brings Global Experience to Local Housing Efforts
Catherine Stihler’s leadership journey spans the globe, with a proven track record of driving success in two major nonprofits— the Open Knowledge Foundation and Creative Commons. Her strategic vision, financial acumen, and commitment to innovation have propelled both organizations to new heights. With two decades of experience shaping European policy and navigating the complex intersection of regulation and progress, Catherine’s expertise uniquely positions her to lead and inspire. Now, as the new CEO of Habitat for Humanity Monterey Bay, she is poised to channel her wealth of experience into creating lasting change and building stronger communities across the region. Today, Catherine is excited about making a difference in her new…
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A New Chapter for Chamber of Commerce
By Kristen Brown, Executive Director I am excited and honored to introduce myself as the new Executive Director of the Santa Cruz Area Chamber of Commerce. With deep roots in Santa Cruz County – working alongside electedofficials, serving as an elected official myself, and collaborating with nonprofit and community organizations – I am committed to the growth, success, and vitality of our local businesses and our community. For over 130 years, the Chamber has been a driving force in advocating for businesses, fostering economic growth, and strengthening community connections. As we look to the future, my vision is to build on this legacy by expanding our membership, deepening our engagement…
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5 Visionary Initiatives Shaping Universal Destinations & Experiences in 2025
DNBCUniversal is expanding its theme park portfolio worldwide by introducing thrilling attractions, immersive experiences, and entirely new theme parks and resorts. Discover some of the most eagerly awaited projects that Universal Destinations & Experiences will unveil in 2025. 1. Universal Orlando Resort’s Highly Anticipated Fourth Theme Park Universal Epic Universe Opens The opening of Epic Universe will transform Universal Orlando Resort into a weeklong vacation destination comprised of four theme parks that are home to the most innovative theme park experiences ever created. Epic Universe will present a level of theme park immersion that is unmatched – transporting guests to expansive worlds featuring more than 50 awe-inspiring attraction, entertainment, dining…
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Monterey Bay Economic Partnership Celebrates 10 Years
The Monterey Bay region is a place of scenic beauty, with breathtaking coastlines, rolling fields, and shady redwood forests. It’s also an exciting place of culture, history, and innovation.Its challenges are equally vivid. Housing costs are increasingly out of reach. Jobs in leading industries leave workers struggling to make ends meet. A Digital Divide hinders progress and inclusivity and exacerbates economic and educational inequalities. Those are among the complex issues that led to the formation of the Monterey Bay Economic Partnership (MBEP) in 2015. A regional, member-supported nonprofit, MBEP brings together a cross-sector network of stakeholders from public, private, and civic entities to collaborate around regional challenges to improve the…
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Help Santa Cruz Pets Come Home for the Holidays
The Santa Cruz SPCA (SCSPCA) recognizes that a community without pet over-population, abuse, neglect, homelessness, and other animal welfare issues begins, in part, with youth education and involvement. Given this, we have created fun-filled programs that help young people feel engaged and inspired as they learn about animals so they can make positive choices for their community, now and for the rest of their lives. The Santa Cruz SPCA offers a number of ways for youth to get involved. Ignite a Love for Animals at Santa Cruz SPCA Youth Camps This year’s winter camp theme is Great Animal Migrations. Kids will learn about which animals migrate, hibernate or adapt during…
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Local Parents Find a Circle of Support in Aptos
The journey of pregnancy, birth and parenting is humbling, joyful, vulnerable and more than a little exhausting. And while many families navigate this season of life with minimal support, there is a team in Aptos trying to change this reality. Nestled near the beach in Seacliff, The Circle Family Center is a refuge for local families. Run by a team of mothers and birth workers, The Circle opened its doors three years ago with the vision of creating a community for families during pregnancy, birth, and the early years of parenthood. With offerings like Pre & Postnatal Yoga, Childbirth Education, Infant Enrichment, Dads Groups, and Toddler Messy Play, this space…
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Early Education Local Families Can Trust
Choosing the right early education program for your child is a critical decision that shapes their foundation for future learning. For families in the San Lorenzo Valley, Community Bridges’ Early Education Division (EED) offers a trusted option that stands out for its quality, commitment to child development, and strong parent engagement. The Highlands Park Early Education Center, a gem nestled in the majestic redwoods in Ben Lomond and alongside the San Lorenzo River, provides a nurturing environment for children aged 18 months to 5 years old. Here, children can grow, learn and thrive in a setting that feels like an extension of their own home. What Sets Highlands Park Early…
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Big Brothers Big Sisters: Empowering Trans Youth
“I want to change the world by making it much more friendly for trans people”. –Neal, a young trans girl. At a time when the journey for gender inclusivity and support is more critical than ever, local programs are stepping up to make a meaningful impact on the lives of transgender youth. These initiatives are providing essential resources, fostering community, and advocating for the well-being of trans kids, ensuring they have the support they need to thrive. One standout initiative in our community is Big Brothers Big Sisters (BBBS), a local organization dedicated to supporting transgender and non-binary youth. Big Brothers Big Sisters created one of the first LGBTQ Youth…
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More Than Just a Backpack
For 15 years, United Way of Santa Cruz County and the County Office of Education have partnered to make Stuff the Bus a vital source of assistance and encouragement for students. The primary goal is simple yet profound: to provide new backpacks and school supplies to over 2,700 students in need across Santa Cruz County. This mission goes far beyond just handing out supplies; it’s about instilling confidence and readiness in young learners as they embark on a new school year. At United Way, we firmly believe that when youth thrive, the entire community thrives. This event embodies our commitment to youth well-being and the power of community support. “In…
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Technology Helps Level the Playing Field for Those with Disabilities
As Tom Wlodkowski walked through San Francisco Airport on his way to a conference, people frequently approached him, asking if he needed help. Blind since birth and using a cane, he continued navigating the complex maze of the airport, a challenge even for someone with sight, while declining offers of assistance. “No, thanks,” he told them. “I’ve got it.” His tool was an iPhone, on which other sighted people were looking at the maze and guiding him step by step. “Technology has been the great equalizer,” he said in an interview. “The iPhone has been a great invention for us.” Wlodkowski is a huge inspiration at Comcast. As the vice…
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A Triumph of Potential: From Overlooked Youth to Rising Stars
As the bright lights illuminated the Santa Cruz TEDx stage, Alex and Martín stood side-by-side with me, their presence commanding the audience’s attention. These two young men from Santa Cruz County are a living embodiment of the life-changing power of believing in hidden talent. For Alex, the journey began years earlier on a court at the YMCA where I was coaching basketball. I love sports and volunteered to coach the team that no one else wanted – a crew of eight boys, including Alex. We didn’t win a single game. People would make fun of our losing streaks. To lift my team’s spirits, I reached out to the Golden State…
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Tech Exec Breaks Through
Someone once told Tracye Mingo, “Don’t get mad when you are underestimated. Be glad. Because they will never see you coming.” That person was her father and number one mentor. Tracye carried those words throughout her career in technology, ultimately becoming the Vice President of Technical Operations at Comcast California. For parents eager to see their children pursue a career in STEM, Tracye’s story is especially inspiring because she was able to pursue a high-paying career in technology without obtaining a degree from a four-year (or longer) college. This saved her significant time and expense, and enabled her to seize opportunities to propel her career forward quickly. As a Black…
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Shared Adventures Helps Disabled Enjoy Outdoor Activities
The name says it all! What Foster Andersen, founder and CEO, has cultivated over the past 30 years is many Shared Adventures for the disabled community. The non-profit organizes activities for disabled folks so they can do what they thought they couldn’t. This isn’t just activities like rock-wall climbing, sailing, kayaking, whale watching, gardening and archery. Many disabled people struggle with not feeling capable of doing some of the things that those of us who have not suffered some sort of injury, congenital or birth anomaly take for granted. “When I started Shared Adventures, I was filling a void,” said Foster. “The disabled community was so disconnected from itself. I…
