Programs

Monthly Recurring Programs

AACSA Open Library

As a FIRST 5–funded Family Resource Center, AACSA’s Open Library program demonstrates the critical role that storytelling plays in early childhood development. These sessions not only support early literacy and language development, but also foster meaningful community engagement for families with young children.Launched in 2024, the Open Library program features Black leaders, authors, and community members reading to children. To date, AACSA has engaged over 100 children and families and welcomed multiple guest readers, including Reyna Harvey of KRON4 News and Dr. David Toston, the first Black Superintendent of Santa Clara County. These experiences allow children to see adults who look like them and to engage with books that reflect their identities and lived experiences.As AACSA recently became the third California village recognized by the National Black Child Development Institute, the Open Library program intentionally advances the Institute’s essential outcome that children have books and toys that reflect who they are and who they can become. Participation from community partners and leaders in this space creates powerful, affirming, and inspirational moments for the children and families AACSA serves.

AACSA Dance Monthly Dance Class

Thanks to the generous support and grant from El Camino Health, the African American Community Service Agency (AACSA) hosts a monthly dance class led by Trey Russell, Valkyries Professional Dancer. AACSA invites the community to join us each month for an uplifting experience that moves your body, lifts your spirit, and strengthens community connections.Dancing is not only fun—it is powerful for overall health and well-being. It improves strength, flexibility, balance, and cardiovascular fitness, while also relieving stress, boosting mood, and building confidence. Dance strengthens memory, encourages teamwork, celebrates diverse cultures, and brings joy through movement and music.Throughout each class, AACSA also highlights Diabetes and Obesity Awareness, reinforcing the importance of healthy lifestyles, made possible through the continued support of El Camino Health.

STEAM on Saturdays

AACSA's STEAM on Saturdays empowers youth, ages 6-14 in today’s innovation economy, the program offers hands-on sessions featuring coding, LEGO robotics, sensor integration, literacy, art, food education, and more — helping bridge educational and opportunity gaps in our community.

Senior Citizens Connected

Senior Citizens Connected Program is designed to foster the senior community connections, enhance technology skills, eat wholesome meals, engage in interactive games, and participate in activities promoting health, wellness, and meaningful engagement.

Signature Event

 Martin Luther King Jr. Luncheon

The Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Luncheon observes the birthday of legendary civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. A community event hosted since 1980, the annual luncheon commemorates and honors the life and legacy of Dr. King and  highlights various members of the local community and beyond who have contributed to the service of others. The MLK Luncheon unites a combination of community and trade organizations, corporations, philanthropists, and students for a one-of-a-kind event.

Juneteenth in the Street Festival

The Juneteenth in the Streets Festival is the oldest African American cultural festival celebrating the end of slavery. Demonstrating the strength of a united African American community, the festival economically supports and displays the creativity of African American artists, entertainers, and entrepreneurs. Additionally, it economically supports and educates the African American community and the community at large about the significant contributions made by African Americans locally and abroad.

Annual Black History Month

A February celebration. Check back soon.

Annual Back to School

Check back soon.

Gala (5 Year Cycle)

Next Gala coming 2028.

AACSA Anniversary

Coming April 20.

Membership Informational Luncheon

Every year, the AACSA team hosts the Membership Informational Luncheon to provide updates to donors and members regarding programs and services, membership benefits, renewal information, and how prospective donors can get involved. For more information about our membership levels, visit www.sjaacsa.org/membership.

Thanks in Giving

More than imagined, members of the community struggle to provide meals to their families especially those impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. AACSA is here to meet the need, provide both warm and dry goods, and support the community through the Thanks in Giving Program.

Volunteer Appreciation Celebration
Senior Citizens Prom

Our society often overlooks and underestimates the value of senior citizens. In order to pay reverence and show our appreciation, AACSA hosts the Senior Citizens Prom. The event creates the opportunity for the AACSA to partner with the Garden City Women's Club, and local youth leaders, to honor, recognize, and celebrate the Senior members of our community.