Community Partners
Our many community partners are at the heart of our work. They include agencies, schools, and parishes. They provide students, in connection with their SCU coursework, the opportunity to contribute to partners’ work in the community and to interact face-to-face with their clients so as to learn from the unique challenges they encounter. This beneficial partnership between the University and our community partners places the concern for justice firmly within the University’s curriculum.
Since its inception in 1986, our partnerships have grown from eight community organizations involving fewer than 100 students in 10 academic courses to almost 60 community partners throughout Santa Clara County who receive nearly 1,200 students each year who learn with them through community engagement. Read about our current community partners by clicking on the links below.
Click on the address to see location on a map.
(1000 S Bascom Ave, San Jose, CA 95128)
The Bascom Community Center is a welcoming, positive place providing a wide variety of quality services and programs for people of all ages and abilities aimed at building community through fun. The gymnasium is the home to wheelchair basketball and power soccer leagues and many more therapeutic recreation opportunities. Bascom Community Center also hosts a number of special events throughout the year such as Neighbor Nights, and cultural and holiday celebrations.
Simply Cooking, Power Soccer Program, or Group Arts Class
SCU students support staff by helping set up the kitchen area and room for the Simply Cooking class to take place. SCU students will also help distribute materials to all participants of the program, encourage participants to always act on safe kitchen practices, encourage their participation and overall engage positively with all participants. Participation helps create an easier place for participants to engage in social interaction and play and boost emotional health.
Wheelchair Basketball Program
SCU students will support the therapeutic program staff by helping set up the gymnasium where Wheelchair Basketball takes place. SCU students also support by being engaged in the game, cheering on participants, helping resolve light conflicts and overall engage positively with all participants. Participation helps create an easier place for participants to engage in social interaction and play and boost emotional health. Guidance will be provided by the class instructor.
(Location varies)
The Bay Area Women’s Sports Initiative (BAWSI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded in 2005 by women's sports legends Brandi Chastain, Julie Foudy, and Marlene Bjornsrud who wanted to harness the power of female athletes to impact society and give them an opportunity to connect through authentic, intentional service. Today, BAWSI’s mission is to mobilize the women’s sports community to engage, inspire, and empower girls in under-resourced neighborhoods and children with disabilities. BAWSI’s free programs level the playing field so that ALL kids have access to play.
BAWSI Girls
A weekly, free after-school sports program for girls in under-resourced communities that harnesses the power of sport as a tool for leadership development. SCU students lead and engage in activity stations under the guidance and supervision of BAWSI coaches. Female volunteers only!
BAWSI Rollers
A weekly adaptive fitness and confidence-building program that offers fun and accessible physical activities to girls and boys with physical, hearing, and cognitive disabilities. SCU students lead and engage in activity stations under the guidance and supervision of BAWSI coaches.
(693 S Second St, San Jose, CA 95112)
Bill Wilson Center provides services to more than 5,000 children, youth, young adults and families in Santa Clara County through our various programs. Bill Wilson Center programs focus on housing, education, counseling, and advocacy. Bill Wilson Center is committed to working with the community to ensure that every youth has access to the range of services needed to grow to be healthy and self-sufficient adults; and that our behavioral health department is available to provide individual and family counseling sessions to a community facing a range of social and emotional challenges.
Drop In Center Support
SCU students engage in positive and appropriate conversations as well and are invited to host a workshop or activity with participants that showcase their talents such as a drawing class, poetry writing, karaoke singing and more. SCU students will also be asked to support basic necessities such as helping distribute a meal, keeping the hygiene areas clean and safe, helping in the computer center and more. SCU students may also be asked to support local field trips with participants and a Bill Wilson staff member to the movie theater, local museums and concerts.
1111 Bellomy St, Santa Clara, CA 95050
Located in the city of Santa Clara, Buchser Middle School is dedicated to creating contributing citizens who are life-long learners. A knowledgeable staff promotes academically challenging and diverse learning experiences that also raise awareness and tolerance of others.
General Ed In-class AssistantSCU students support Buchser Middle School educators in their classrooms with activities and tutoring. Students can support a variety of subjects such as math, english, physical education, and more. SCU students will serve as positive role models to all Buchser students by engaging in positive conversations and encouraging them to think critically. SCU students may also be asked to do light administrative duties such as distributing classroom supplies and more.
(Location varies)
The mission of All Access Sports and Recreation, which includes the Therapeutic Programs, is to provide quality sport, fitness, and recreational programs for individuals with disabilities throughout Northern California. The social and recreational opportunities provided by Therapeutic Recreation Services focus on abilities, rather than disabilities, and achieve the following: enhance independence, improve social skills, increase self-esteem, connect people and families with community resources, provide opportunities to contribute to society and promote community integration.
Adapted Bowling
Hosted at Bowlero San Jose (5420 Thornwood Dr, San Jose, CA 95123), the participants of this program enjoy friendly competition against each other as they enjoy an evening together. SCU students are asked to engage with the participants of the program in a culturally sensitive matter and support staff as needed.
Around the Town Club
Participants of this program select where around the area they’d like to spend their time socializing and spending time together as a community. Locations may include going to the movies, a paint night, arcade, and more! SCU students will be asked to engage with the participants of the program in a culturally sensitive matter and support staff as needed.
(John XXIII Multi Service Program 195 E San Fernando St, San Jose, CA 95112)
(East Side Neighborhood Center 2150 Alum Rock Ave, San Jose, CA)
Children, Youth, and Family Development
Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County serves and advocates for families and individuals in need, especially those living in poverty. Rooted in gospel values, we work to create a more just and compassionate community in which people of all cultures and beliefs can participate. The Youth and Family Services division concentrates its efforts on children, teens, and young adults at high risk of gang involvement, truancy, delinquency and incarceration. We work to change the lives and prospects of children, youth and their families by providing support and opportunities that specifically address barriers that prevent them from thriving, succeeding and reaching their full potential. SCU students work in the classroom providing individual or group literacy tutoring and provide arts and craft activity and/or a sports/team game activity in the CORAL Program for K-5th grade students.
CORAL @ Empire Gardens Elementary - 1060 Empire Street, San Jose, CA 95112
SCU students will work in the classroom with students and educators and support student academic success by completing one on one or group reading activities, helping with enrichment activities and other tasks asked by the CORAL educators.
Drive Thru Food Distribution
Due to COVID-19, Catholic Charities was designated as a Red Cross COVID-19 related disaster relief and recovery organization for the South Bay Area and began distributing food to thousands of vulnerable families. Currently it is serving over 2,000 clients per week. Working through their Parish Engagement Program, the Drive-thru Food Distribution Program is currently working at 7 sites in the Diocese of San Jose. Arrupe Engagement will be working with each of the sites.
Our Lady of Refuge
Santa Teresa Parish
St. Athanasius
St. John Vianney
St. Lucy Parish
St. Maria Goretti
St. Leo the Great Parish
Working through their Parish Engagement Program, the Drive-thru Food Distribution Program is currently working at 7 sites in the Diocese of San Jose. Students may be helping with traffic control, loading food, and registration (which could include assisting clients find additional social services resources).
Senior Nutrition Program
Catholic Charities' Senior Nutrition Program serves hot, nutritious meals to seniors (age 60+) five days a week in a social environment at Eastside Neighborhood Center in San Jose. The program promotes the role of nutrition in preventative health and long term care. Nutrition education is provided to seniors participating in the Senior Nutrition Program to support this promotional effort.
ESL/Citizenship Program @ John XXIII Multi Service Center
The St. John XXIII Multi Service Center offers a variety of educational classes for older adults. This includes ESL classes for those preparing for their citizenship test. SCU students will be assisting older adults in gaining confidence with their conversational English language skills while practicing for the oral portion of the citizenship exam.
Mobile Shower Program
The Mobile showers are provided in partnership with Catholic Charities and are hosted at Our Lady of Refuge Parish for all community members. The Mobile Shower program is a two shower unit that offers a safe space for community members to clean up with dignity. Those interested in supporting our program provide a welcoming environment, distribute clean underwear, lunch, snacks, hygiene kits, donated clothes, and blankets to the participants of the program. Volunteers also engage with the participants of the program through light conversation in a culturally sensitive manner. This program offers the participants the chance to be healthier, be presentable for their jobs & job interviews and allows them to feel supported by their local parish.
The Window
The Window is dedicated to serving those who are homeless, those released from incarceration, and other vulnerable residents of San Jose. We help them improve the quality of their lives, integrating health and social services in the belief every human being is blessed with God-given dignity. Each day, the program serves approximately 200 individuals who represent a wide variety of denominations, ethnicities and traditions. Services are provided free of charge through three programs: The Window, Healthcare Clinic and Bridges of Hope. The Window provides the following services: Postal Service: A safe place where the homeless and those released from incarceration receive mail while in transition and rebuilding their lives. Phone service available to make appointments and receive messages. Sandwiches and granola bars distributed Referrals to Re-Entry Center 150 W. Mission including Faith Based Referrals to shelter, clothing, employment, housing and community programs Santa Clara County Continuum of Care (CoC) advocating homeless solutions Help with navigating immigration, domestic violence, legal documents.
(14000 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, CA 95070)
The College of Adaptive Arts provides a lifelong, equitable collegiate experience to adults with special needs who historically have not had access to college education. Students ages 18+ can take an individual class for a 3-unit certificate or can enroll in a particular course of study and complete a 60-unit undergraduate, 120-unit graduate, and 240-unit post-graduate articulated curriculum.
Hybrid In-Class Assistance
SCU students will serve as in-class support, tutoring and assisting instruction in classes ranging from music video production and recording, classic and contemporary dance, concert choir, poetry and more.
Virtual In-class Assistance
College of Adaptive Arts provides a lifelong, equitable collegiate experience to adults with special needs who historically have not had access to college education.
(Trinity Cathedral, 81 N 2nd Street, San Jose, CA, 95113)
Formerly a mission of the First Presbyterian Church, Front Door Communities has the morning Bag Lunch Program and the afternoon Women’s Drop-In Program, known as Lifted Spirits. In the late 2000s, the church began a Front Door program to pack and give away lunches to whomever came asking for food. Today they give out approximately 600 lunches each week.
Lifted Spirits Program
The Women’s Drop-in Center, known as “Lifted Spirits,” prior to the COVID-19 pandemic gave up to 30 homeless women respite from the streets three afternoons a week. It provided a safe community for women, warm meals, sofas to take naps, toiletries and clothing, a washer and a dryer, music, activities, and open hearts and ears to support. Currently the Lifted Spirits program continues to serve homeless women while following COVID-19 health and safety guidelines (actual programming will be different than prior to the pandemic). SCU students engage with the unhoused community as they work with the ‘Lifted Spirits’ women. SCU students must be proactive to engage in conversations, offering smiles and support. This opportunity is only open to women.
Lunch Bag Program
SCU students engage with the community as they serve brown bag lunches. SCU students must be proactive to engage in conversations, offering smiles and support.
(220 West Taylor Street San Jose, CA 91150)
This non-profit organic farm on one acre in downtown San Jose started in 2013. The mission of Garden to Table is to create a sustainable, local food system that builds community, improves access to healthy foods, and teaches residents to cultivate their own fruits, vegetables, and herbs. The ultimate goal or vision is to inspire a more equitable, nutritious, and just food system through community education and engagement.
ABCs Farming/Volunteer Education Days
The ABC's of Farming is a parent participation program that provides garden education for young children (ages 4-10). Each session has a theme, for example, a past theme is Good Morning, Farm. We have terrific hands-on learning activities planned and, of course, farm games, craft activities, and harvesting!
Seed to Table w/Recovery Cafe
Since 2019, Garden to Table Silicon Valley has partnered with Recovery Café San Jose—a healing community for those traumatized by addiction, homelessness, and mental health challenges—to offer training classes to its members at the farm. Seed to Table is an eight-week hands-on gardening education and nutrition class offered throughout the year. Each week, members learn a new aspect of urban farming, such as planting vegetables; backyard composting and vermicomposting; propagation/seed saving; harvesting techniques for greater yield; caring for chickens; how to maximize space, save money, and cultivate healthy productive vegetables; and the healthiest vegetable varieties you can grow. At the end of each class, members harvest vegetables to sample and take home. Harvesting time is a wonderful opportunity to share recipe ideas, talk about the nutritional and healing properties of foods, and get members excited about eating vegetables and trying new varieties of vegetables. Members receive a certificate of completion and are recognized at an award ceremony at the end of the 8 weeks.
Volunteer Days
Open to all ages to learn and participate in educational activities such as backyard composting; propagation and seed saving; planting and maintaining vegetables, herbs, and flowers; harvesting; and greenhouse work.
(611 Willis Avenue, San Jose, CA 95125)
The mission of Go Kids at Gardner, formerly known as Estrella Family Services, is to ensure equal access to family services that enhance youth development to build the foundation for a lifetime of success. Go Kids at Gardner provides full-day childcare for infants and toddlers, and before- and after-school care for children in kindergarten through 5th grade. Most of the families served by Go Kids at Gardner site are low-income and part of the Latinx community.
Pre-School & School Age Programs
SCU student engagement includes working with preschool or school aged children either in the morning or afternoon on academically related activities, arts and crafts, and playground activities. SCU students are encouraged to listen to and interact with the children in a manner that creates mutual respect, trust, and that allows for the SCU and Go Kids students to learn from one another.
(488 N. 6th Street, San Jose, CA 95112)
Jacinto "Tony" Siquig Northside Community Center, also known as the Grace Art and Wellness Center, is 15, 418 square feet in size and is home to many wellness programs for participants. This community center serves as the main site of many resources including nutrition programs, case management, cultural activities, and other social services. The therapeutic and recreation staff is committed to creating a place where instead of isolation and marginalization, there is safety, acceptance, and meaningful engagement with others. Members are provided with support in maintaining and improving their mental health and level of functioning through the modalities of therapeutic recreation and expressive arts. The Center’s goal is to serve the social, recreation and therapeutic needs of adults with mental illness and other cognitive disabilities.
Therapeutic Program Support
SCU students support staff of the center and long term volunteers in a variety of ways including breakfast serving for the participants, supporting participant’s engagement in therapeutic activities such as table tennis or arts and crafts, and much more. Drop in activities where SCU students also support and engage with participants include art groups, process and support groups, sports and fitness activities, nutrition, and psychological programs which teach daily living skills.
1043 Garland Ave, San Jose, CA 95126
SCU students support Jerry Larson Food Basket programs. Students assist in setting up a grocery store and help clients with their food choices. The Food Basket supplies AIDS Services, Meals On Wheels and Family Resource Center clients with the fresh and nutritious food needed to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
2380 Enborg Lane, San Jose, CA 95128
The Hearts and Minds Activity Center provides programs and support services for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and other related conditions. Alzheimer’s disease is a neurological condition that causes progressive intellectual decline and memory loss. The center offers a sense of community where respect, dignity and personal growth are priorities. Adult day care includes activities that enhance the use of cognitive skills; stimulate interaction on personal & group levels; encourage mobility & stability; provide monitoring & assistance in the areas of nutrition and personal hygiene.
SCU students interact with clients and assist trained staff members with therapeutic activities such as playing cards, board games, arts and crafts, and more. SCU students are encouraged to share their own talents and hobbies with participants of the program in order to build community. SCU students are also encouraged to listen to and interact with the participants of the program in a manner that creates mutual respect, trust, and positive conversations to take place.
(Location varies)
Keep Coyote Creek Beautiful is a community-based organization that focuses on Coyote Creek which is the largest watershed in the southern San Francisco Bay. Their vision is a vibrant Coyote Creek: clean waters, abundant wildlife, and natural beauty that everyone can enjoy. They’re accomplishing this by both mobilizing community resources and participation, and by engaging community members to become the creek’s advocates and caretakers.
Creek Clean-up
Coyote Creek was once a thriving creek with clean water and plentiful wildlife. Storm drain runoff with oils and microplastics, illegal dumping, street litter, and homeless trash that have degraded the creek, the water, and its banks. SCU students support the clean up efforts by picking up as much trash as possible before it goes out to the creek, the Bay or the Ocean. Simple as that. The Keep Coyote Creek Beautiful staff provide all the tools you'll need along with a team leader to keep you safe and share their excitement about being outside at Coyote Creek.
Bio-Blitz
Along our creeks and in our parks live a huge variety of wildlife, from water bugs to birds, snakes to elk. We look for all of them at BioBlitz. Essentially, we play PokeMan, but we seek out nature. iNaturalist, a mobile phone app, is the tool that we use to record our observations and share them with scientists. SCU students will be asked to join our efforts in recording all observations through the app to create a large glossary of sitings that will later be used for a variety of educational purposes.
(1080 N. 7th St. San Jose, CA 95112)
In 1980 Loaves & Fishes began with one meal. Today, Loaves and Fishes provide over 1.5 million meals to our hungry neighbors. The Hot Meal Programs provide "to go" meals five days a week, serving low-income families, disadvantaged individuals with a special concern for children, families, seniors, veterans, students, the disabled, and houseless.
Meal Serving@ Goodwill or Vietnamese Seventh Day Adventist Church
Hot Meal Program provides "to go" meals five days a week serving low-income families, and disadvantaged individuals. SCU students will support the Loaves and Fishes program by serving nutritious meals to participants of the program in a culturally sensitive manner that is also free of judgment.
(311 Willow Street, San Jose, CA 95110)
SCU students engage with the community as they work hard to prepare food items for community members to enjoy. SCU students must be proactive to engage in conversations, and smile with all the many clients and volunteers. More instructions will be provided by site coordinators, leads of the program and long term volunteers.
(2039 Kammerer Avenue, San Jose 95116)
The Mayfair Community Center is a welcoming, positive place providing a wide variety of quality services and programs for people of all ages and abilities aimed at building community through fun. We offer a number of programs and events including San José Recreation Preschool, leisure, health and wellness classes, youth summer camps, and afterschool program. In addition, we offer a weekday lunch program and classes for older adults over the age of 60 and those who are disabled. We also host a number of special events throughout the year such as Neighbor Nights, and cultural and holiday celebrations.
Group Arts Class
SCU students are asked to support the participants of the Group Arts program by encouraging their art skills, and making suggestions when needed. All SCU students must engage with the participants to the best of their abilities. Whether it's socializing, assisting staff or participants through activity, and creating an encouraging environment to improve social skills and overall mental health. Guidance will be provided by class instructor/staff.
Teen Center Program
The Teen Center is an out of school time recreation program that is offered daily between 3pm-6pm Monday-Friday for youth ages 12-17. The goal of this program is to provide a safe space for teenagers, homework assistance, and recreational activities. SCU students will support academic tutoring and day to day activities for teens including game days, poetry readings, and more. SCU students are asked to engage in positive conversations with the teens and especially discuss their higher education experience to amplify the importance of education to the teens.
(950 St. Elizabeth Dr., San Jose, CA 95126)
The Morgan Autism Center Model mines the best techniques from multiple developmental and educational models and applies them to the individual needs of the students. The result is a nurturing, joyful environment that focuses on constant program optimization to deliver greater opportunities for success. Our mission is to help children and adults with autism and other developmental disabilities maximize their potential in a dignified, positive and loving environment.
Adult ProgramSCU students work with professional staff in the Adult Program to assist with activities that improve the independent living and vocational skills of the adult participants.
(1940 Cunningham Avenue, San Jose, CA 95122)
Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church (MHT) is a parish of the Diocese of San Jose, California. The clergy serving the parish are from the Jesuits West Province of the Society of Jesus (The Jesuits). The Church is located in east San Jose at 2040 Nassau Drive, San Jose, California, 95122, just to the west of the San Jose Reid-Hillview Airport and cross-street of Cunningham Avenue. The parishioners come from mixed heritage and cultural backgrounds - mostly Filipinos, Hispanics, Samoans and Vietnamese. MHT celebrates its ethnically-diverse community as a reflection of God’s love and creation. Most Holy Trinity School provides students with an excellent education and a joyful prayer life. We empower students to become lifelong learners who strive to reach their full potential as responsible citizens. MHT School strives to equip students to be future ready, proficient in 21st Century skills (critical thinking, collaboration, media literacy and communication), and with a common language and understanding of what it means to develop and maintain a growth mindset.
After School Program
SCU students will support the after school programming of Most Holy Trinity by helping with homework time, enrichment activities, outdoor physical activity time and so much more. SCU students are encouraged to engage in positive conversations with students in a manner that creates mutual respect, trust, and that allows for the SCU and MHT students to learn from one another.
Ida Jew and Valley Vista Academy (1966 Flint Ave, San Jose, CA 95148)
SCU students will either be working with the students of Ida Jew Academy in a variety of settings including in class assistance with classwork, enrichment and wellness activities and more. Guidance will be provided by the teacher of the classroom.
Robert Sanders Elementary (3411 Rocky Mountain Drive, San Jose, CA 95127)
SCU students work with students of Robert Sanders Elementary School in a variety of settings including in-class assistance with classwork, enrichment and wellness activities and more. Guidance will be provided by the teacher of the classroom.
(201 North 2nd Street, San Jose, California 95112)
The mission of Opening Doors is to reduce generational poverty in Santa Clara County. We do so by educating and connecting low-income populations and people experiencing homelessness to vital safety net services in Santa Clara County and the heart of downtown San Jose. Students will be assisting with COVID-19 emergency meal service for low-income seniors, families, and people experiencing homelessness.
St. James Park
SCU students will be assisting with emergency meal service for low-income seniors, families, and people experiencing homelessness. SCU students are asked to engage in positive conversations with the community that is free of stigma and judgements of any kind.
(Location varies)
Since 1994, Our City Forest has been the leading nonprofit in Silicon Valley for urban forestry and environmental education. Their work and programs include the care and maintenance of recently planted trees, community plantings, a Community Nursery and Education Center, and outreach to underserved neighborhoods that lack the resources to develop and maintain an environmentally sustainable landscape.
Community Plantings
SCU students will be assisting with weekly community plantings within the neighborhoods of San Jose.
1880 Pruneridge Ave., Santa Clara, CA 95050
PACE provides high quality programs for individuals with autism and associated developmental disabilities living in the San Francisco Bay Area. These programs include Behavioral Services, PACE School and Preschool, and Residential Homes. Our mission is to enhance the lives of people impacted by autism, through innovation, exceptional education and compassionate care. SCU students with the Sunny Days Preschool to help support each child’s emerging communication and learning skills.
Sunny Days KindergartenSCU students working with the Sunny Days Preschool will be helping support each child’s emerging communication and learning skills.
Villas on the Park: (290 N. 2nd St. San Jose, CA 95112)
Villas at 4th Street: (1030 N. 4th St. San Jose, CA 95112)
The mission of PATH is to end homelessness for individuals, families, and communities. PATH envisions a world where every person has a home. The values of PATH include creative collaborations, strategic leadership, empowerment for all, and passionate commitment. PATH helps people find permanent housing and provide case management, medical and mental healthcare, benefits advocacy, employment training, and other services to help them maintain their homes stably. Since 2013, PATH has connected more than 9,000 people to permanent homes.
Coping Skills Class Support
SCU students are invited to shadow/debrief with case managers as they engage with the PATH residents. Challenging conversations may take place and SCU students are encouraged to lean into these conversations and positively engage in these conversations free of stigma or judgment of any kind.
General Programming Support
SCU students are invited to help the PATH community with general programming for participants of the PATH program including Bingo days, poetry reading activities, distributing hygiene kits, and more. SCU students are encouraged to engage in positive conversations with other participants of the programs free of stigma or judgment of any kind.
Healthy Habits Class Support
SCU students are invited to support the PATH Harm Reduction Specialist lead classes on specific topics such such as healthy eating habits and more. SCU students are encouraged to engage in positive conversations with other participants of the programs free of stigma or judgment of any kind.
Neighborhood Clean Up Support
SCU students are invited to help the PATH community with beautification projects of their neighborhood. Projects include planting flowers or succulents, pulling weeds, helping with a community garden, picking up trash, and more. Safe clean up supplies will be provided. SCU students are encouraged to engage in positive conversations with other participants of the programs free of stigma or judgment of any kind.
(1380 Rosalia Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94087)
In Class Support
Peterson Middle School is dedicated to academic excellence and the personal, social and physical development of each student. Peterson students will have a positive self-image, respect others, communicate effectively, think critically and appreciate cultural diversity in an environment that promotes a sense of belonging and moral responsibility. SCU students will serve as in-class assistants/tutors that help English Language Learners, through the Read 180 project, with assignments and group work. English Learner students in Santa Clara Unified School District are a diverse group comprising approximately 25% of the total student population and representing more than 50 languages with Spanish (22%), Vietnamese (4%), and Tagalog (4%) being the major language groups districtwide.
(80 S 5th St, San Jose, CA 95112)
Recovery Cafe San Jose is founded on the belief that every human being is precious, worthy of love and deserving of the opportunities to fulfill their potential. In this loving community people who cannot afford long-term recovery services come to belong, heal and know themselves as loved. In this sanctuary from the streets, the Cafe helps participants develop tools and access other community resources for stabilizing recovery. Meaningful daily activities and a positive community are powerful forces that help break the patterns and challenges of addiction, unemployment and homelessness.
Coffee Bar Support
Supporting the Recovery Cafe organization and staff members as they manage and conduct a variety of programs and services to support community members on their recovery journey.
General Support
Students support the Recovery Cafe organization and staff members as they manage and conduct a variety of programs and services to support community members on their recovery journey. The programs are School of Recovery, Coffee Bar Support, and Cafe Companion. Students will aim to be a listening ear to our members, help staff the coffee bar, and assist with classes.
School of Recovery
Students support Recovery Cafe organization and staff members as they manage and conduct a variety of programs and services to support community members on their recovery journey.
(1381 S. First Street, San Jose, CA 95110)
Sacred Heart Community Service is a multi-service organization with the mission to build a community free from poverty by creating hope, opportunity, and action. They provide essential services, empower people to improve their lives, advocate for justice, and inspire volunteers to love, serve, and share.
After School Academy
Sacred Heart’s after-school program is for students in grades K-8. Staff and volunteers work closely with children, families, and schools to create individualized work plans for each participant, achieving grade-level or higher performance. SCU students will assist with mentoring and tutoring children by providing academic assistance and enrichment activities.
Clothes Closet
In the Clothes Closet, families can visit to browse and shop twice per month for high-quality clothing, shoes, accessories, linens, and books that were donated by local community members. Every family member could take home up to 5 articles of clothing — all free of charge. SCU students help in organizing and preparing clothing for distribution and assisting SHCS members.
Early Childhood Education
The mission of Sacred Heart Community Service is to build a community free from poverty by creating hope, opportunity, and action. They provide essential services, empower people to improve their lives, advocate for justice, and inspire volunteers to love, serve, and share. Parents with Preschoolers & Early Childhood Education: Parents with young children 1-3 years old meet with volunteers four days per week for nine months to improve English skills, improve parenting skills, and provide a mutual support environment for each other’s families. Simultaneously, our children attend pre-kinder classes in the classroom next door to prepare them for emotional and developmental success in the American public school system. By the time families graduate from the program, our children are prepared for kindergarten, have increased reading at home, and we have helped our children identify good and bad touch. Parents are invited to be trained as Promotoras to support future participants in the coming year. SCU students assist teachers to prepare children ages 3-5 for kindergarten through acquisition of socialization and pre-literacy skills in English and Spanish during Circle Time, arts and crafts, music, and supervised play while parents are participating in ESL and Parenting courses.
Food Pantry
The SHCS Pantry offers two essential food programs: a three-day supplemental supply of groceries and an assortment of food for members who are currently homeless that requires no prep or cooking. SCU students help in organizing and preparing for food distribution and assisting SHCS members.
La Mesa Verde
La Mesa Verde is a leadership network of urban gardeners who build access to healthy food in San José. We believe that by developing collective leadership among LMV members through producing our own food and organizing for policy change, we can improve access to good food in San José and create a strong, sustainable community.
(1051 W. San Fernando Street, San Jose, CA 95126)
St. Leo the Great School is a welcoming, inclusive and diverse community where students encounter Christ in a rigorous curriculum designed to educate the whole child. The curriculum is based on the Reggio Emilia philosophy. The curriculum includes language/literacy, math, religion, social studies, science, technology, Art, Music, PE, and Spanish. Because this age is important for social-emotional development, our young learners learn how to work and play in community.
After School Program
SCU students will serve as positive role models for all St. Leo students and work individually or with small groups of students in either the St. Leo School After School Program or during school hours in the classroom alongside teachers. SCU students will help with classwork, homework, lead games, support arts and crafts projects, and provide further support in any school functions and/or events taking place.
In Class Support
SCU students will serve as positive role models for all St. Leo students and work individually or with small groups of students during classroom time. SCU students will be asked to support learning activities including classwork and projects.
51 N. Ninth Street, San Jose, CA 95116
Saint Patrick’s is a Catholic school in downtown San Jose, serving elementary and junior high students in Transitional Kindergarten through the 8th grade. Inspired by the Vincentian spirit, Saint Patrick Catholic School provides a strong academic, spiritual and moral foundation in a safe and nurturing environment within a community that celebrates its diversity. In partnership with our families, we are transforming students into life-long learners, inspiring service to others and forming compassionate and effective leaders.
After School Tutoring Program
SCU students serve as positive role models as homework tutors in the after-school program. Homework tutors help school aged children (K-8) with their homework in a range of subjects – reading, writing, math, social science, and science. After School Recreation/Play Program
SCU students serve as positive role models as recreation/play leaders. SCU students will be asked to positively interact with the St. Patrick students and lead physical activities in small or large groups.
After School STEM Program
SCU students serve as positive role models through the STEM program by engaging with students and supporting them with thinking of new and creative ideas for a STEM project, supporting their existing STEM projects, or simply learning more about STEM and helping St. Patrick students see themselves in the STEM world.
St. Patrick Newspaper Club
In the context of an after school journalism/yearbook club, SCU students will be assisting as mentors and writing tutors. The program is designed to assist a group of highly motivated students continue their passion for writing and journalism.
(Location varies)
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His Name without discrimination.
Emmanuel House Kitchen Helper
SCU students will support the Emmanuel House, prepare meals and distribute meals to community members who are currently unhoused or are facing food insecurity. SCU students will be positive social change agents by engaging, smiling and being mindful of their privileges as they support the work of the Emmanuel house.
Family Services Food Check-in and Walk-up Food Distribution (Station A), (Station B), (Station C)
Food Box Distribution (Drive-Thru or Walk-Thru) – This activity takes place outdoors. Food Box Distribution Helpers will load food boxes during drive thru of cars or into carts for walk-thru. Involves standing , walking and lifting approximately 5 lb. food boxes.
Santa Clara Food Distribution
SCU students will place food in car trunks and pack food into plastic bags for easier distribution. Students will be working outside and engaging with other staff, volunteers and community members.
Senior Service Scanner/Nutrition Program
SCU students offer support to Salvation Army’s Senior Nutrition Program by helping check in seniors as they arrive, helping serve food, and helping clean up after the program.
(33 N. 8th St, San Jose, CA 95112)
Located on the eastern edge of downtown San Jose, San Jose Day is in one of the county’s lowest income and most diverse neighborhoods. The rich diversity of the children and staff provides an enriched learning environment that promotes respect and understanding for others with cultural, economic, language, gender, ethnic, and physical differences at a time when the values and behaviors of young children are forming. Services include child care for 112 children ages six weeks through five years old, parent education and support, in-community student placements.
Preschool ProgramSCU students actively engage with the preschool children (ages 2+ years) either on the playground or indoors, in small group activities or on a one-to-one basis. Students with particular talents or skills are encouraged to share them with the children.
San José Public Library enriches lives by fostering lifelong learning and by ensuring that every member of the community has access to a vast array of ideas and information.
(921 S 1st St, San Jose, CA 95110)
(150 E. San Fernando Street, San Jose, CA 95112)
Family Game Zone with Biblioteca Latinoamericana
SCU students will support library staff with setting up the Family Game Zone area which includes putting out chairs and tables, hooking up Nintendo Switch consoles to a projector, assisting children and families with both video games and board games, encouraging cooperation among children, and creating a space for fun and community. Spanish language skills are not required, however it would be helpful.
Homework Club at Biblioteca Latinoamericana
SCU students will serve as positive role models to all students and community members of the library. SCU students will provide library participants support and assistance with their homework. SCU students will help readers grades 1-4 with literacy skills, such as phonics and reading comprehension, while also sharing that reading is fun and finding books students are interested in reading together.
Reading Club for Children at Biblioteca Latinoamericana
SCU students will serve as positive role models to all students and community members of the library. Students will provide students with help with their homework. Students will help readers grades 1-4 with literacy skills, such as phonics and reading comprehension, while also sharing that reading is fun and finding books students are interested in reading together. Students will help adults and older adults learn how to use computers, set up online accounts, email, online applications while speaking in Spanish.
Story Time Assistant at Biblioteca Latinoamericana
As a Story Time Assistant, SCU students will help the Story Time librarian set up the Story Time area which may include lifting and placing soft play mats or rugs, moving light furniture, and setting up for a craft afterward. Other responsibilities include greet families as they arrive at the Story Time area, count the participants (adults and children) at each program, help monitor the space to ensure patron safety, help pass out and collect rhythm instruments, help pass out flyers or other papers, be an enthusiastic participant, and help with tidying up the Story Time space, including wiping down surfaces with cleaning cloths, and moving light furniture. All interested SCU students must enjoy working with children and families, have great communication skills and engage with the community in a positive manner that is free of judgment and stigma. Bilingual in Spanish and English is a plus but not required!
Saturday Lego Club at Biblioteca Latinoamericana
SCU students will support staff by setting up the Lego Club area which may include setting up chairs and tables, setting up Legos, connect with children as they build and play with legos, help participants with Lego building apps (such as Brickit), take the initiative and create connections with children and families, encourage problem solving and conflict management between children, and help foster a space for fun and community.
(3000 Benton Street, Santa Clara, CA 95051)
The Santa Clara High School AVID program stands for Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID). AVID is an in-school academic support program for grades seven through twelve. The purpose of the program is to prepare students for college eligibility and success. AVID places academically average students in advanced classes; levels the playing field for minority, rural, low-income, and other students without a college-going tradition in their families; and targets students in the academic middle--B, C, and even D students--who have the desire to go to college and the willingness to work hard.
AVID Tutoring
SCU students are trained in inquiry-based methods of tutoring to assist AVID students in the classroom under the supervision of a lead teacher. SCU students will serve as positive role models to all AVID students and support AVID students with projects, tasks and assignments that will help them get ready to embark on their higher education journey. SCU students are encouraged to share their lived experiences of their higher education journey as well.
(778 S. Almaden Ave., San Jose, CA 95110)
The mission of Santa Maria Urban Ministry is to feed the body, mind, and spirit of the individuals in our community by providing them with food and other basic services, educational programs for all ages, and opportunities to give back through volunteer service. As such, Santa Maria is a multi-program organization that offers both basic services that meet short-term needs and programs designed to help clients' families experience permanent, uplifting transformation.
Food Pantry Support
Santa Maria's Food Pantry provides bi-monthly groceries for neighbors in need from 10 zip codes in San Jose. We pride ourselves on providing a balanced collection of protein, staples, vegetables and fruit. Produce and grocery items are bagged fresh by volunteers to distribute to all community members the day of distribution. SCU students will be asked to support the staff of Santa Maria Urban Ministries by setting up for the day’s operations, putting together bagged groceries and produce, help distribute items to the community and/or helping break down after all groceries and produce items have been distributed. SCU students are asked to engage with all community participants and staff in a culturally sensitive manner, and express a disposition that is positive and free of judgment or stigma.
1051 Sherman Street, Santa Clara, CA 95050
The Forge
All are welcome to drop by Forge Garden during our volunteer work hours. Possible activities include planting crops, building compost piles, spreading mulch, harvesting and seeding in the greenhouse. Come ready to work with sturdy shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a water bottle and clothes that can get dirty. Placement work may vary depending on the needs of the garden.
(Location varies)
The mission of Second Harvest Food Bank is to lead our community to ensure that anyone who needs a healthy meal can get one. Volunteers, donors and supporters help provide food to families, multi-generational households, seniors and college students.
Emergency Food Distribution
SCU students support Second Harvest of Silicon Valley by unloading food boxes from delivery trucks, organizing them accordingly, and as participants arrive they distribute food boxes. Students will engage with participants of the program, staff members and other volunteers during their time.
3590 Cas Dr, San Jose, CA 95111
The mission of All Access Sports and Recreation, which includes the Therapeutic Programs, is to provide quality sport, fitness, and recreational programs for individuals with disabilities throughout Northern California. The social and recreational opportunities provided by Therapeutic Recreation Services focus on abilities, rather than disabilities, and achieve the following: enhance independence, improve social skills, increase self-esteem, connect people and families with community resources, provide opportunities to contribute to society and promote community integration.
Fun with Arts
This program focuses on different art forms such as coloring, drawing, painting and more! This art class is directed towards teens, young adults, and adults with disabilities. Each week staff will program and plan different art forms and crafts for the participants. SCU students will support with the set up of the program including setting up the room, passing out materials, and proceed with helping facilitate the art or craft activity. SCU students will serve as positive role models by engaging in friendly conversation with participants and encourage their participation.
Inclusive Active Sports
This is an inclusive program that encourages participants to get active. The participants have the option to play some table tennis, basketball, and more. The staff expectation is to set up the gymnasium and ensure everyone is being safe. SCU students will support staff by leading a 10-15 minute warm up/stretch, encouraging participants to select a physical activity to play, help pass out equipment and materials, and engage with all participants as they play an activity. SCU students will also serve as positive role models by engaging in friendly conversation with all participants.
Open Dance
Participants come to join us for fun group dancing. The general rule is to do 15 minutes of light instructed exercise and stretches, followed by simple line dancing. Staff expectation is to play music requests and monitor appropriate dancing. SCU students will support staff by leading a warm up/stretch before the start of the dance lesson, help lead the dance lesson, encourage participants to select their favorite song to dance to, and engage with all participants of the program.
Sensory Fun Zone
This course is specifically designed to empower individuals with disabilities to engage in hands-on scientific and artistic investigations through sensory-based projects. Staff are meant to incorporate scientific inquiry with a focus on accommodating diverse sensory needs and enhancing the learning experience for every participant. SCU students will support with the set up of the program including setting up the room, passing out materials, and proceed with helping facilitate the activity. SCU students will serve as positive role models by engaging in friendly conversation with participants and encourage their participation.
(3434 Silver Creek Rd, San Jose, CA 95121)
The Mission of Silver Creek High School, in partnership with family, community, and industry, is to provide all our students with equal access to a quality education in a safe, healthy, challenging, and caring environment, empowering students to become critical thinkers and lifelong learners who will interact cooperatively as socially responsible citizens in a multicultural world. AVID stands for Advancement Via Individual Determination and is a college readiness program for middle through high school students that is designed to increase school wide learning and performance. Many students in the AVID program are traditionally underrepresented and the AVID program works with these students intentionally to support their success as they pursue higher education.
AVID Tutoring
SCU students will support the students in the AVID program at Silver Creek High School by supporting their learning and engagement in a variety of activities and tasks led by the educator of the AVID program. SCU students will also serve as positive role models through positive conversations regarding their higher education experience. Students may also be asked a series of questions related to college and higher education in a panel discussion facilitated by the lead educator of the AVID program.
1977 St. Lawrence Dr, Santa Clara CA 95051
St. Lawrence Elementary and Middle School
Saint Lawrence Elementary and Middle School challenges students from diverse backgrounds to grow academically and emotionally within a supportive Catholic community. St. Lawrence Elementary and Middle School fosters individuality and active learning, helping children thrive now and in the future.
In-class and After School Program Assistants/Tutors
SCU students will serve as positive role models for all students of St. Lawrence. SCU students will support the students through tutoring, enrichment and recreational activities during and outside of the after school care program. This includes but is not limited to homework support, in class academic support, playing or leading games, supporting arts and craft projects, and supporting school functions and/or events. Students will be tutoring students either individually or in groups during class or after school.
Hoover Middle School: (1635 Park Avenue, San Jose, CA 95126)
Horace Mann Elementary School: (55 N. 7th Street, San Jose, CA 95112)
Founded in 1997, Think Together partners with schools to change the odds for kids. Think Together delivers nationally-recognized expanded learning programs and school improvement, offered through affiliate partner Orenda Education. They want a community where all kids get a great education that prepares them for college and career. They equip students with the tools they need to succeed; and they equip schools with solutions that transform teaching and learning from the boardroom to the classroom. Think Together is a non-profit organization that partners with schools in California to change the odds for kids. They focus our efforts on Students in San Jose and Newark K-8 Public Schools.
(160 N. 3rd St, San Jose, CA 95112)
The Third Street Community Center provides educational programs and enrichment opportunities for children in San Jose. They offer youth with a safe, positive, and stimulating environment to explore learning and experience academic and personal success. They also provide academic support through our After School Academics Program (ASAP), and Summer of Learning (SoL) Program. They engage youth in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) through a design challenge in our Young Engineers Program (YEP). All programs provide mentoring opportunities that connect children to positive role models from local universities. At Third Street, children improve skills in reading and math, receive help with homework, strengthen their sense of self-esteem, and build confidence.
After School Academic Program
The After School Academic Program provides a comprehensive curriculum designed to promote life-long learning, develop core competencies, and connect elementary school children with mentors. Along with gaining academic skills, our students develop self-confidence and motivation. Particularly influenced is their proficiency in the areas of math, science and technology. They incorporate new problem solving techniques and improve their communication skills. Students develop healthy interests, realize their own talents and build healthy social skills, which better prepares them for success in middle school and beyond. The curriculum is designed to be agile and allow for changes to ensure we promote academic growth, meet specific needs of the individuals and promote collaboration among the students. SCU students assist in the classroom and with whatever the educators need for support.
(647 S. King Rd, San Jose, CA 95116)
Veggielution Community Farm was created in 2008 to help people make healthy food choices and provide opportunities for connecting with the natural world. They are fostering a sustainable food system through their urban farm that engages the community by providing access to organic and local food, creating youth leadership opportunities, and developing creative solutions to environmental and social justice issues. The goal is to distribute 70% of their crops at low cost or free to the community. This is achieved through Farm Stand, Farm Box, volunteer give-aways, and soup kitchen donations. The remaining 30% is sold for revenue at market price!
Veggielution Community Farm
SCU students assist farm maintenance alongside other staff and volunteers. Students may also support environmental educational workshops in Youth Garden.
(1990 Fruitdale Avenue, San Jose, CA 95128)
White Blossom Care Center is a short-term rehabilitation and skilled nursing facility in San Jose, California. They are dedicated to providing personalized rehabilitation and nursing services to all who enter our doors. Their healthcare professionals strive to help residents reach their maximum potential in a caring and supportive environment.
Activity Assistant
SCU students engage with residents in an assortment of therapeutic and leisure activities (individual or small groups) Bilingual speakers, especially in Spanish, Mandarin, Vietnamese and Filipino dialects are welcomed.
(3250 Monroe St, Santa Clara, CA 95051 )
Adrian C. Wilcox High School is a public school located in Santa Clara, California. It is one of two high schools serving those living within the boundaries of the Santa Clara Unified School District. The school is named after Adrian C. Wilcox, who served on the Santa Clara Union High School Board of Trustees for over 30 years. Wilcox was first accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges in 1966 and is accredited through 2009. In April 2005, Wilcox officially became a California Distinguished School.
English Language Development Program
SCU students will engage with students of the English Language Learner (ELL) program and support their language development through practice conversational speaking, writing workshops, and reading. SCU students will also serve as positive role models for students and engage in positive conversations, including conversations around higher education. Guidance will be provided by the main educator of the ELL program.
(1123 Hanchett Avenue, San Jose, CA 95126)
A part of the faith-based organization, Young Life, the Capernaum Project gives young people with intellectual and developmental disabilities the chance to experience fun and adventure, to develop fulfilling friendships and to challenge their limits while building self-esteem through club, camp and other exciting activities.
Activity Assistant - High School ProgramStarted in San Jose, in 1986, Young Life’s Capernaum Ministry is a program for kids and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Young Life Capernaum gives Young People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities the chance to experience fun and adventure, to develop fulfilling friendships and challenge their limits. Capernaum is about creating ministry spaces where teens and young adults with disabilities can grow in their faith and in their self-esteem. SCU students serve as club leaders to teenagers in high school clubs or socialize with young adults in their community and become part of a peer social outlet. Activities will vary a lot, with the main goal being for students to spend time with YoungLife participants.
SCU students serve as club leaders for teenagers with disabilities.
(588 N. 4th St, San Jose, CA 95112)
Yu Ai Kai Japanese American Senior Services aims to promote healthy aging, successful independent living, and advocate for all seniors, while embracing Japanese American tradition. Participants of Yu Ai Kai center get to participate in a variety of programs and services that support physical, mental and social and emotional wellbeing. Programs such as a variety of activities such as arts and crafts, gentle exercises classes, game days/nights, a nutrition program, karaoke and more! It is through these programs and services that the community of Yu Ai Kai is continuously thriving for over 50 years.
SCU students will support the Senior Day Programs of Yu Ai Kai and engage with participants of the program by helping break down the room from a previous activity or setting up for a new activity, joining in on the activity with the other participants, having positive conversations with seniors, and providing general support to the Yu Ai Kai staff.