Frequently Asked Q's
SCCAP welcomes volunteers from all backgrounds. Requirements may vary by program, but generally, volunteers must be current students, follow the SCU Handbook, and attend any necessary training sessions.
SCCAP volunteering programs are reserved for members of the Santa Clara community. Undergraduate students—regardless of year, experience, or major—are prioritized first, followed by graduate students, faculty, staff, and alums. However, we are more than happy to direct others to other service opportunities or to pass along information on different service opportunities!
Contact us! If there are a few specific programs you're interested in, reach out to those PCs for an orientation or overview of it—their emails should be listed under the description of each program. You could also consider trying a few short-term volunteer opportunities to get a feel for the different opportunities.
If a department interests you (but not a program), contact that DC. Their email information is next to their bio under each department page. If you still aren't sure, use our Contact Us page and contact the Staff Support Team! Let us know what you're interested in, and we'll direct you to the program that best suits your interests!
All of our programs welcome beginners and provide the training needed to get started if it is a requirement. However, certain programs expect basic skills, whether carrying heavy loads, spending time with children, or encompassing the Jesuit values of compassion and care we represent.
Most of our programs require initial training to familiarize volunteers with the mission, goals, and best practices for engaging with the community. Program coordinators will reach out to you with requirements well ahead of time!
Volunteering with SCCAP offers impactful ways to support our local community. You could mentor youth, help raise awareness about social justice issues, or support initiatives for individuals with disabilities and health needs. Connecting with various groups in and around Santa Clara will create a more inclusive, informed, and empowered community on campus and beyond.