Santa Cruz SPCA Humane Education & Youth Programs

Santa Cruz SPCA Humane Education & Youth Programs offers PAWS Afterschool Program, Junior Animal Care Team, Teen Service Saturdays, Santa Cruz SPCA Volunteer, Camp SPCA Camp, and Classroom Presentations. PAWS includes one hour of animal-themed education and activities followed by one hour socializing with shelter animals. Junior Animal Care Team includes one hour of hands-on animal care projects followed by one hour socializing with shelter animals. Teen Service Saturdays is a three-hour program with community service hours and shelter projects.

Programs

• PAWS Afterschool Program — 7–10 years old · Mondays 4–6pm; Wednesdays 4–6pm; September–May
• Junior Animal Care Team — 11+ years old · Tuesdays 4–6pm; Thursdays 4–6pm; September–May
• Teen Service Saturdays — 13–15 years old · One Saturday/month, 9am–12pm; September–May
• Santa Cruz SPCA Volunteer — 16+ years old
• Camp SPCA Camp — School breaks · During school breaks
• Classroom Presentations — Schools

At a glance

• Ages: 7–16 years old
• General schedule: The Youth Pathway has 4 steps. Beyond it, camps, readers, and classroom programs welcome kids and families at any stage.
• Facility hours: Monday closed; Tuesday–Sunday 11:00 am–5:00 pm; Pet Food Pantry Sundays 1:00–3:00 pm

About the provider

The program’s mission is: “We believe the next generation has the power to create a kinder, more compassionate world for animals.” The Youth Pathway has 4 steps, and the programs include hands-on experiences, animal-focused learning, and real community involvement. Classroom Presentations are offered at no cost, donations are greatly appreciated, and presentations can be online or in-person.

The Youth Pathway is designed to help children and teens grow their knowledge, confidence, and practical skills in animal welfare. PAWS includes one hour of animal-themed education and activities followed by one hour socializing with shelter animals. Junior Animal Care Team includes one hour of hands-on animal care projects followed by one hour socializing with shelter animals. Teen Service Saturdays is a three-hour program. Classroom Presentations are offered at no cost; donations are greatly appreciated; presentations can be online or in-person.

Last updated September 22, 2026.