Young adults in Santa Cruz County’s underserved neighborhoods have a new pathway to paid work experience through a partnership between Santa Cruz Works, Cabrillo College, and the City of Santa Cruz. The Affordable Housing and Sustainable Communities (AHSC) Internship Opportunity Program is offering more than 10 paid internships with local businesses and nonprofits, targeting individuals who often face financial barriers to unpaid opportunities.
The program provides wages, flexible schedules of 10 to 20 hours per week for up to six months, professional mentorship, and career development. All internships must conclude by June 1, 2027. Participating organizations span technology, marketing, media, sustainability, business operations, and community services, including Clean Oceans International, GeoPulse Solutions Inc., Mission Hill Creamery, and United Way of Santa Cruz County. Priority is given to residents of Beach Flats, Lower Ocean, Live Oak, Watsonville, San Lorenzo Valley, and the Pajaro Valley.
Unlike unpaid internships that can exclude low-income young people, this program ensures participants earn while they learn. “Real jobs, real pay, real experience” is the guiding principle, with interns working alongside experienced supervisors on meaningful projects. Previous participants have gained skills in software engineering, marketing, communications, and video production. For example, Yuliana Morales-Galvan helped improve digital tools supporting Indigenous families at Nurbli, Emily Ramirez developed outreach skills at Clean Oceans International, and Elsa Tamayo gained marketing experience at Siena House.
The initiative builds on a first cohort launched in June 2025 with Digital NEST and now expanded to include Cabrillo College as a workforce development partner. Funded by a grant to the City of Santa Cruz, the program supports economic mobility and a stronger local workforce. Eligible applicants are 18 and older living in underserved communities, with no prior professional experience required. There is no cost to apply. Interested individuals can view positions and apply through Santa Cruz Works - Paid Internship Opportunities, and Cabrillo College students may complete a student interest form linked on the program webpage. The program’s expansion with Cabrillo College strengthens the connection between education and real-world career opportunities.
This announcement matters because it directly addresses the financial hurdles that prevent many young adults from pursuing internships. By offering paid positions in fields ranging from technology to community services, the program not only provides immediate income but also builds resumes, confidence, and professional networks. With a focus on underserved neighborhoods, it aims to break cycles of economic disadvantage and create a more inclusive local workforce. As the program grows, it could serve as a model for other regions seeking to connect young talent with meaningful employment.
