erry has been at the heart of this growth. His presence, encouragement, and ability to make everyone feel welcome have helped shape the program into what it is today—a place where men can relax, laugh, share stories, and build friendships that extend far beyond the card table.
Have you been out to see ACC’s garden yet? Many people still don’t know that ACC has a community garden tucked behind our building at the far end of the field. This year, 45 seniors are gardening in nearly 30 plots, and there’s something new to discover every time you visit. You’ll find everything: corn and tomatoes to flowers, herbs, and even melons growing throughout the garden.
One of the best things about the garden is seeing how each person makes their plot their own. Every gardener has a unique way of growing and caring for their plants. At the front of the garden, you’ll also notice eight raised dark-green planters that are built at a comfortable height, making it easier for seniors to garden without bending over. These planters help keep the program accessible for people with mobility challenges and physical limitations.
Our gardeners are a diverse and inspiring group. Two participants are over 90 years old, and six gardeners are blind or have low vision. Several volunteers help support these gardeners by assisting with tasks like digging holes, planting, and watering when needed.
Sharon, who has her own plot, recently helped her mom, Peggy, get started with a garden plot of her own. Peggy is 94 years old. “I’m so glad to get my mom out here,” Sharon said. “At home she was sitting too much. She loves getting out in the sunshine and seeing how each plant is progressing.”
For many participants, the garden offers much more than a place to grow vegetables. It provides a reason to get outside, stay active, and connect with others. Laverne, who has been partially blind for about three years, calls her gardening experience “vision without sight.” With the help of a volunteer, she planted tomatoes and enjoys checking on them by touch. She says gardening makes her feel happy and encouraged because it reminds her that she can still do something she loves, even without full sight. Another blind gardener was thrilled last year when she got to feel a fully grown ear of corn on the stalk.
The garden has become a place where seniors can stay active, enjoy nature, learn from one another, and build friendships. While each gardener takes care of their own plot, many look forward to sharing some of their harvest with ACC social groups and fellow participants.
If you’re interested in joining the garden this fall, please reach out to program staff for more information.
The Senior Escort Program was launched in 2022 in response to the rise in anti-Asian hate incidents targeting older adults. What began as a way to help seniors feel safer while walking in their neighborhoods, grocery shopping, or navigating medical appointments, has grown into a vibrant community built on trust, compassion, and friendship. Today, the program is open to all seniors, creating opportunities for people of all backgrounds to build meaningful relationships while promoting safety, independence, and healthy aging.
“Today’s lunch is a small token of our deep appreciation for all you contribute. Your commitment, hard work, and generosity are the backbone of ACC Senior Services. Every hour you volunteer and every task you complete makes a meaningful difference. Over 13,715 volunteer hours were captured in Volunteer Matters in 2025.”
On Saturday, March 28, 2026, ACC Senior Services welcomed over seven hundred friends, supporters, and community partners to its 14th Annual Crab Feed, one of the organization’s most beloved and anticipated fundraising traditions. The evening was filled with laughter, camaraderie, incredible food, and an inspiring spirit of generosity—all in support of ACC’s mission to serve and empower seniors throughout the Sacramento region.
On February 27, 2026, ACC Senior Services was filled with vibrant color, joyful music, and the warmth of community as we gathered to celebrate Lunar New Year. This FREE community event welcomed residents, families, staff, and neighbors for an afternoon that beautifully honored tradition, culture, and togetherness.
Pickleball enthusiasts at ACC have even more to celebrate thanks to the generosity of Peter and Ruby Chin, who recently donated four brand-new, high-quality pickleball nets to the ACC Senior Services Campus. Designed for durability and easy setup, these nets will be enjoyed by players for years to come.
Kaori loves her role as a Friendly Visitor for ACC’s Friendly Visitor/In Home Respite Program. Nationwide, Friendly Visitor programs connect older adults with volunteers for regular social interaction.
After spending five minutes with Kaori Sakauye, you feel her energetic spirit and compassion for helping senior adults in our community. She retired from the City of Sacramento in 2019 and still maintains a busy schedule.
On the evening of September 30, 2025, ACC Senior Services was filled with the sounds of harmony and the warmth of community as guests gathered for a very special concert featuring Asian Pair. This lively event was not just about beautiful music—it was also about giving back.
On Friday, September 12, 2025, the ACC Senior Services campus was filled with laughter, strategy, and friendly competition as players gathered for the 2nd ACC Mahjong Tournament. Following the resounding success of the last inaugural event, this tournament was even bigger, drawing participants from across Sacramento and beyond.
