Join us this summer for an unforgettable experience on our Project California program. Experience the joy of volunteering your time while also meeting new friends and exploring the incredible city of Santa Barbara. The goal of Project California Community Service is not only to give back to the local community, but for our participants to also learn about themselves and to grow through their experiences.

Upon completion of Project California, each participant will receive a certificate recognizing 40, 60, or 80 HOURS of SUMMER COMMUNITY SERVICE. Each person volunteers with the same project for the length of their program. This allows our teenagers to create more meaningful bonds with those they are helping. Our participants volunteer each morning, Monday through Friday.

Each weekday contains a great mix of meaningful community service, enriching afternoon electives, great local excursions, and fun evening activities. Located next to the Pacific Ocean, bordered by the majestic Santa Ynez Mountains, and bursting with history and culture, Santa Barbara is the perfect location for Project California.

Each weekend during Project California is spent discovering exciting destinations throughout sunny southern California. Chill on beautiful Catalina Island and visit Disneyland during our Orange County Weekend, discover Santa Monica and browse Rodeo Drive during our fun Los Angeles Weekend, and check-out Universal Studios and The Improv Comedy Club during our weekend in Hollywood.

Each participant should come to Project California with an open mind and positive attitude, excited about new experiences, ready to fully participate in volunteer work, and willing to challenge oneself to step outside of his or her comfort zone. Each one of our teenagers is a partner in making Project California a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

Choose one of the following Community Service Programs:

Group Size:

The Project California summer community service programs accommodate up to 60 participants, which fosters expanded social interactions and friendships within the group during evening activities and weekend excursions. Depending on the specific site, each service project will consist of 5-15 participants. This enables our teenagers to benefit from small group and one-on-one interaction at the service project.

Accommodations:

During the week, the University of California Santa Barbara is our home away from home. Our dorm features an incredible array of facilities, including an Olympic-size swimming pool, computer room, recreation room with pool tables and ping pong tables, floor lounges with sofas and cable television, linen service, and laundry room.

Meals:

During the week, the group will eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner in Portola Dining Commons, the dormitory dining hall. Portola is cafeteria-style, consisting of various stations with plenty of choices at each meal for all types of diets. Enjoy everything from made-to-order omelets to lasagna to delicious desserts. While traveling on weekends, breakfast and dinner are provided at our hotels and in various local restaurants.

Staff:

Our summer community service staff members are teachers and graduate students who are committed to Project California’s ideals of volunteering and giving back to the global community. Rein Community Service staff members are always present at each service site. All staff members attend our professional training workshops where the emphasis is placed on the safety and well being of our teenage volunteers. Program leaders are trained in Basic First Aid and CPR.

Transportation:

Rein Project California Community Service uses professionally driven buses and vans to transfer our participants to their various projects, activities and weekend excursions. There is no additional fee for transporting participants to and from the airport on arrival in California and departure from California.

Communication:

The Rein Communication Center is available 24 hours per day, 7 days per week throughout the program. Teenagers are permitted to bring cell phones and our free wifi is available throughout our dormitory.

For a complete description of the Rein Community Service Project California, Request a Rein Teen Tours & Community Service Brochure.

In Santa Barbara, choose ONE of the following Community Service Projects:

Volunteer with Children

Storyteller Children's Center

- Work with children 2 to 4 years of age at Storyteller Children's Center. The center provides quality, tuition-free early childhood education for at-risk children in Santa Barbara. Our volunteers work with the children in small groups to provide individualized attention. Activities include arts and crafts, outside play-time, story reading, and general day care.*

Boys and Girls Clubs of Santa Barbara County

- Work with elementary through middle-school aged children and become a mentor as you help to develop self-esteem and values in a fun and energetic environment. The Boys and Girls Club consists of a computer lab, library, athletic fields and gymnasium, and other youth-oriented facilities.

Isla Vista Youth Project

- Work with infants, toddlers, and pre-schoolers as you help to provide a positive experience through diverse educational, recreational, and social programs. Our volunteers will provide general care, will go on fun field trips, and will be encouraged to develop their own unique projects.*

Girls, Inc. Summer Adventure Program

– Work at one of Girls, Inc's program centers as you help inspire young girls to be smart, strong, and bold. Each day, our volunteers will help provide fun activities in a camp-like setting, including gardening, science, gymnastics, sports, dance, computers, and more.

*Please note that according to State of California law, any person volunteering at a child-care center MUST provide proof of the following: Pertussis immunization, Measles immunization, Influenza immunization, negative TB skin test within the last 4 years.

Volunteer at Unity Shoppe

Unity Shoppe operates a year-round free grocery and clothing store so people on the verge of homelessness can shop with dignity for their basic needs such as food and clothing. By supplementing these basic necessities, people have the ability to pay their rent and utilities and are then able to move their lives forward. Our volunteers will help by stocking food and clothing, working at the register, helping customers to shop for their families' necessities, and more. This is a truly unique opportunity to experience the essence of "giving back." Each volunteer will participate in each activity every day.

Protect the Environment

Summer Community Service Project performed in conjunction with Channel Islands Restoration and Municipal and County Parks and Preserves.

Our restoration project will increase awareness and promote individual and group actions to help the environment. Our volunteers will restore native plant-life to balance the eco-system, reduce weeds and shrubs that encroach upon local plant species, and beautify local watersheds. During this program our volunteers will also learn about the history of this beautiful area and the importance of keeping the eco-system in balance. All volunteer work takes place outdoors.

Service Details

Summer Community Service participants volunteer with the same project for the length of the program, in order to create meaningful bonds between our volunteers and the community they are helping.
Participants volunteer each morning, Monday - Friday, for the duration of the program, earning 40, 60 or 80 hours of Summer Community Service credit.
Service project space is limited at each volunteer site, so project selections are granted following your date of enrollment, based on a first-come, first-served basis.
The goal of Community Service is not only to give back to the community but for our participants to also learn and grow through their experiences.

A Typical Weekday at Project California

Monday - Thursday

8:00am - 8:30am

Breakfast in the dormitory cafeteria

9:00am - 1:00pm

Volunteer Projects

1:15pm - 2:00pm

Lunch in the cafeteria

2:30pm - 4:30pm

Afternoon Electives*

4:30pm - 6:00pm

Dorm time

6:15pm - 7:15pm

Dinner in the cafeteria

8:00pm - 11:00pm

Evening Activities in and around Santa Barbara

*Every Wednesday we break from electives in the afternoon and offer fun Field Trips to Downtown Santa Barbara and the Local Beaches.

Friday

8:00am - 8:30am

Breakfast in the dormitory cafeteria

9:00am - 1:00pm

Volunteer Projects

1:15pm - 2:00pm

Lunch in the cafeteria

2:30pm - 4:30pm

Depart for Weekend Trips

Living on Campus @ UC Santa Barbara

The University of California Santa Barbara is an energetic campus located between the beautiful Pacific Ocean and the majestic Santa Ynez Mountains. During the week, this vibrant campus is our home away from home. Dormitory rooms are doubles, with a shared private bathroom connecting two rooms. Our dorm features an incredible array of facilities, including an Olympic-size swimming pool, computer room, recreation room with pool tables and ping pong tables, floor lounges with sofas and cable television, fitness room, linen service, and laundry room.

While on campus, the group will eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner in Portola Dining Commons, the dormitory dining hall. Portola is cafeteria-style, consisting of various stations with plenty of choices at each meal for all types of diets. Enjoy everything from made-to-order omelets to lasagna to delicious desserts. While traveling on weekends, breakfast and dinner are provided at our hotels and in various local restaurants.

Throughout the program there is time for visits to the Recreation Center, complete with soccer fields, racquetball courts, weight rooms, and fitness centers. You’ll also soak up the vibe at the University Center when we visit the bookstore, located at the center of this beautiful campus.

Afternoon Electives

Each Project California community service participant selects one of the following activities as an afternoon elective. Each elective will run for the duration of the program, three afternoons per week. The other two days per week are spent in and around Santa Barbara and the surrounding beaches.

Tennis Instruction

Improve your tennis game in a fun group environment with the help of professional tennis instruction. Your time will be spent honing your skills and competing with your fellow players and instructors. All skill levels are welcome and all participants must bring their own racquets.

Golf Instruction

Here is a great opportunity to take professional golf instruction at a beautiful Santa Barbara golf course. Each day will allow time for teaching and analysis. Time on the course is provided throughout the program. All skills levels are welcome. Participants bring their own golf clubs.
**$200 supplemental fee

Cooking

Learn your way around the kitchen as our cooking instructor teaches you the fun and fine art of preparing and cooking delicious meals. No experience is necessary.

Digital Photography

Santa Barbara’s picturesque natural environment and unique Mission-style architecture is the perfect place to improve your digital photography skills with the help of professional instruction. Each participant must supply his or her own digital camera.

Santa Barbara Days

Experience all that Santa Barbara has to offer. Each day will vary, with participants engaging in exciting and enriching cultural and outdoor activities throughout the area. Some activities include visits to local museums, spending time at the zoo, participating in kayak trips and hiking excursions, and biking along the famous California beaches.

Yoga Instruction

Have fun and enlighten your body and mind through a creative blend of various methods of yoga. Our professional instructors will instill in our students feelings of strength, peace, openness, and overall well being. All experience levels are welcome.

Santa Barbara Waves

Santa Barbara is a water-sport lover's paradise. This elective will introduce our participants to a new ocean and beach activity each week. Professional instructors will teach us the basics of sea-kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, surfing, and more. This is also a unique opportunity to enjoy many of the beautiful beaches throughout the Santa Barbara area. All equipment is provided for each activity.
** $200/2-week program supplemental fee
** $300/3-week program supplemental fee
** $400/4-week program supplemental fee

Weekend Excursions

Weekend One: Orange County

It's time for some rest and relaxation as we head to beautiful Orange County. Try to spot whales and porpoises as we cruise the blue Pacific waters on our way to Catalina Island, where there will be time to snorkel, swim, and chill on the beach at Avalon Harbor. Enjoy an awesome day of rides at Disneyland. Get ready to cheer on your favorite knight as we take in the excitement at Medieval Times! Enjoy the stunning sunset while dining in vibrant Ventura Harbor.
^**For 14, 21 and 28 Day participants.

Weekend Two: Los Angeles

Fun and excitement await us during our amazing weekend in the heart of the City of Angels. Keep your eyes open for your favorite celebrities as you stroll down Rodeo Drive. Check-out the street performers and cool California vibe at Santa Monica’s 3rd Street Promenade. Grab a bite to eat at the world-famous Farmer’s Market and check out the scene at The Grove. The adrenaline will be pumping during our visit to the “Thrill Capital of the World”, Six Flags Magic Mountain!
^**Full weekend for 21-day participants. Please note that our 14-day participants will spend Friday night in Los Angeles and will depart the following Saturday morning from Los Angeles International Airport.

Weekend Three: Hollywood

Fun and excitement await us during our amazing final weekend in Hollywood! We’ll enjoy rides such as Revenge of the Mummy and Jurassic Park River Adventure at Universal Studios. Explore the mysteries of Hogwarts Castle at the all new attraction, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. We’ll get closer to the entertainment that we know and love during our behind-the-scenes tour of Warner Bros. Studios. We’ll experience one of the busiest movie studios in Hollywood as we explore the studio’s iconic backlots and interactive soundstages! We'll laugh the night away with our new friends at the hottest spot on Melrose, The Improv Comedy Club. Check out the stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the famous handprints at Mann’s Chinese Theatre.
^**Full weekend for 28-day participants. Please note that our 21-day participants will spend Friday night in Hollywood and will depart the following Saturday morning from Los Angeles International Airport.

Frequently Asked Questions

Project California Teen Community Service Tour

How old are the teenagers on Project California?: Our participants are currently in 9th – 11th grade.
How many teenagers will be in my group?: Project California can accommodate up to 60 teenagers.
Do I get to choose my roommate?: Prior to the summer each participant will fill out a roommate questionnaire. After a thorough review of each person's questionnaire, we will assign roommates based on everyone's responses. Friends traveling together can choose to room with each other. Each person will have one roommate and two additional suitemates (each "room" consists of two bedrooms connected by a common bathroom).
How do I choose a service project and an afternoon elective?: Once you have enrolled, we will email you descriptions of the different volunteer and elective options. We have several great service options to choose from, whether you want to work with children, help struggling families, or want to help the environment. Once you have chosen your project, you volunteer at that project for the duration of your program, allowing for a sense of accomplishment by the end of the experience.
What's the story with afternoon electives?: Each participant selects an elective, which take place in the afternoons. This is your chance to learn a new skill or improve upon something you are already interested in!
Can I bring my cell phone?: Yes, you can bring your cell phone. We do, though, have certain policies that are enforced during the program. Cell phones can not be used during community service and we prefer cell phones not be used during meal times and group activities.
Who are the counselors?: We hire adults who are fun, energetic, and share our passion for giving back. This past year the average age of our counselors was 27 years-old and many come from backgrounds in education. The counselors work side-by-side with our teenagers at the volunteer projects, participate in our fun electives and activities, and are always available to lend a hand, no matter the reason. Our staff undergoes professional training and skill development during orientation meetings prior to the summer.
What if I get sick while in California?: Medical clinics are located close to the university and Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital is a short 7-miute drive away. For any situation that requires medical attention, your parents will be notified as soon as possible and a counselor will take you to a nearby clinic or hospital. Your parents are kept up to date on developments after any medical visit. If you are unable to participate in a day's activities, a counselor of the same-sex will stay in the dormitory with you.
I'm a picky eater. Will I be able to find enough to eat?: The food at UCSB is plentiful, diverse, and fresh! We can satisfy the pickiest of eaters and we are happy to discuss your individual requirements with you before the summer.
How do you handle allergies and special dietary needs?: We are able to accommodate teenagers who have allergies and dietary needs. Prior to the summer, all participants are required to complete a detailed medical history. If you have a particular allergy, please call the Rein Teen Tours office so we can discuss an allergy action plan.
What if I don't feel comfortable doing a certain activity?: Our counselors encourage each participant to have an open mind and a willingness to try new things. We will never pressure you, though, to do anything that you do not feel comfortable with.
What should I pack?: Santa Barbara is home to perfect summer weather – warm during the day and just a bit of a chill at night. We run a very casual program, so think shorts, jeans, sweatshirts, t-shirts, flip-flops, and sneakers. Each participant receives a detailed packing list prior to the summer, so you'll know exactly what to bring!
How does laundry work?: There is a laundry room on the ground floor of the dormitory and you can do your laundry at your leisure. We provide detergent and a counselor is always available to lend a hand.
Will I receive any type of acknowledgment that I volunteered this summer?: At the conclusion of your program we will send a certificate documenting the number of hours completed along with a letter explaining how you earned those hours. We are also happy to help with any paperwork or documentation that may be required by your school.
What kind of transportation is used in California?: During longer rides to and from the airport and to and from our weekend excursions, we use chartered coach buses. Between the dormitory and the local volunteer sites, activities, and restaurants we utilize professionally driven yellow school buses. The program director also has access to a SUV for local errands.

14, 21 & 28-Day Community Service Program With Participants Living @ UC Santa Barbara