Volunteers make a difference in Santa Maria
“It’s not how much we give but how much love we put into giving.”
– Mother Theresa
With more than 1,300 people providing in excess of 10,000 hours of service each year, Santa Maria volunteers offer their time and talents for the betterment of the clients and our facilities. We cannot thank them enough for their hard work, dedication and compassion to make a difference.
If you or your group would like to volunteer, we welcome the opportunity.
Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator for more information.
Volunteer Opportunities
This is a great way to get your co-workers, friends and/or family together and make a big impact on the women and children while having a rewarding experience to share.
Projects can range anywhere from light construction renovations such as installing new windows or painting to creating play areas for the children and landscaping. There are also opportunities for interactive events and activities with the clients of Santa Maria such as: arts and crafts, holiday parties, carnivals and much more.
Would you be interested in spending a few hours, once a week, rocking, holding and cuddling babies? Throughout the 90-day intensive rehab program, the moms are required to spend 30 hours in class/group. We need volunteers willing to come in and give them a hand.
Santa Maria is looking for passionate individuals to help transform a living garden that uplifts the spirits of everyone who experiences its beauty. For the women on a recovery journey, watching and nurturing a seedling’s growth into a mature plant mirrors their own path to healing and renewal.
We invite volunteers to support our efforts by leading an age-appropriate children’s gardening club on Saturday mornings for kids ages 4-12, and by helping facilitate family gardening experiences on Sunday mornings. Join us in creating a space of growth, hope, and joy for our community!
Santa Maria has an individual service opportunity in our library on Wednesday afternoons from 1:30 to 4:00 pm. We’re looking for someone who loves reading and books, and who is eager to engage with our participants and their children. If you’re passionate about creating a warm, inviting space where families can connect over books, we’d love to have you join us!
If any church programs are interested in hosting a retreat for our women, day camp for children or family group on a Friday evening or Saturday. Meditation, prayer, speakers and / or crafts are possible objectives for these retreats. The mission is to give a brief reprieve in which clients can enjoy and reflect on the purpose of living a substance free life.
Bring your group to host a regular AA, NA, Celebrate Recovery or other pathway to recovery meetings at Santa Maria!
Available times can be shared upon request.
WHAT TO EXPECT BEFORE VOLUNTEERING
Submitting your application is the first step in joining the Santa Maria Hostel community. It helps us get to know you and your heart for service. By filling this out and sharing your information, you help us create a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
The safety and well-being of our residents, staff, and volunteers is central to our mission. A criminal background check helps us ensure a secure and trusting community for all. All information is kept confidential and handled in accordance with the law.
As part of our commitment to safety, applicants are required to complete a drug screening. This authorization allows Santa Maria Hostel to receive and review the results. All information is kept confidential and evaluated in line with our policies.
The Confidentiality, Rights and Responsibilities, Safety Handbook, and Code of Ethics Statements outline important expectations and protections for everyone involved. Reviewing and agreeing to these statements ensures a shared understanding and a respectful, safe environment.
Blue Basin Trainings are three self-paced online courses designed to support you in your volunteering at Santa Maria Hostel. These trainings provide essential guidance on safety, ethics, and best practices. They can be completed on your own schedule before you begin.
