Volunteer Opportunities for Santa Barbara High School Students

There are many available non-profit organizations that take student volunteers in our community. The Santa Barbara Zoo, Santa Barbara Historical Society, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, and the Bucket Brigade are all organizations that are available for students to volunteer hours at. Ms. Luna Rios, who is the College and Career Centers tech, explains why volunteering is beneficial for students: “ Volunteering is a great way to make connections with the community, and even get a job.” Students are also encouraged to reach out to local government institutions. Beach cleanups organized by the Santa Barbara Parks and Recreation department, and all branches of the SB Public Library are great places to gain hours and benefit the community. The SBHS College and Career Center holds community fairs in the quad to help publicize these opportunities and allow students to talk with local non-profits. The next one is Nov. 13 at 10:30 am to 1 pm. The College and Career Center also posts numerous available volunteer options up on the white board outside their office and on Parent Square. If students are unable to supply their own transportation to volunteer sites, the College and Career Center will provide them with a bus pass. Ms. Luna adds, “…most of the organizations do events during school breaks,” to make sure students are available. “The non-profits want you to help them, and in return they want to help you…They’re in partnership with you.” Students need 60 community service hours to graduate, and there are many resources to help you get them. As Ms. Luna said, “This is such a good way to give back to yourself and the community.”