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Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon 2026

Scott Okamoto — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 23:44:46 +0000

April is Volunteer Appreciation Month, and on April 25, 2026, ACC proudly celebrated the incredible individuals who give their time and heart to our community.

We welcomed 109 volunteers to a special sit-down, buffet-style lunch filled with delicious dishes and meaningful moments. The menu featured smoked BBQ pork, chow mein, steamed mixed vegetables, wonton soup (with 600 wontons lovingly prepared by John’s parents!), cream cheese wontons, and refreshing boba-flavored teas.

This memorable meal was made possible thanks to generous ingredient donations from Connie Van, John Ha, and SF Market, and was prepared and served by Connie, John, and their family. A special thank you to Café La Vie owner Anh Luu for the boba tea, and to Lela Krueger for the beautiful and tasty desserts—including a watermelon fruit cake, chocolate cupcakes, and vanilla cake.

Guests enjoyed music and sound by Sean, a welcome by Jill Hays, Interim President & CEO, and captured fun moments at the photo booth, and left with swag bags filled with goodies like rice (donated by Farmer’s Rice Coop), Hawaiian Sun drinks (courtesy of Oto’s Marketplace), popcorn, chips, cookies, and sweet treats—plus a brand-new ACC Volunteer lanyard.

This event was truly a team effort, thoughtfully planned and hosted by our Volunteer Services Committee: Mary Bienko, Wes Goo, Judi Keen, and Tracy Shirasago. Our Board Members also pitched in with setup, serving, cleanup, and raffle prize donations.

As Mary Bienko shared during the event:
“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.”

To all our volunteers—thank you for everything you do. You make a difference every single day.

If you missed the invitation or were unable to make the luncheon, please contact Jasmine Holling at volunteer@accsv.org

Photos by Jeff Jong, ACC Camera Club

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14th Annual ACC Crab Feed – A Smashing Success!

Scott Okamoto — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 19:20:09 +0000

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.
Guests enjoyed a lively evening emceed by Sacramento County Supervisor Pat Hume, whose humor and energy helped keep the program moving and the crowd engaged. The event was made possible through the leadership of event chairs Evelyn Chin, Debbie Seid, and Janet Sakata, whose dedication and countless hours of planning helped bring the evening to life. Thank you to the Crab Feed Workgroup who has met for months to work out every detail of this year’s event. The evening was supported by ACC’s Board of Directors, ACC staff, and an incredible team of volunteers who ensured the event’s festivities ran smoothly from start to finish.

Over 2800 lbs of Asian-Style Hot Dungeness Crab!

Of course, the heart of the evening was the food. A tremendous thank you goes to Dor, Gordie, and the entire kitchen crew from the Sacramento Asian Sports Foundation (SASF), who once again worked tirelessly behind the scenes to prepare and serve a feast for hundreds of guests. Serving over 2,800 pounds of dungeness crab, accompanied by fried rice, asian-style ribs, mixed green salad with toasted sesame dressing, and freshly-fried shrimp chips. The cooks hard work and expertise ensured that everyone enjoyed a delicious and memorable meal.
Guests also enjoyed signature cocktails generously donated by Binh Dao of local AAPI owned Dao Distillery, adding a special touch to the evening’s festivities. Featuring local Bogle and Heringer wines, frozen margaritas and more, the bar area was kept running smoothly thanks to ACC Board Member, Wes Goo, and the entire bar volunteer group of bartenders, who kept spirits high throughout the night.

New this year…

The excitement continued with a bustling Silent Auction and Raffle, featuring generous contributions from many community businesses and supporters. We are deeply grateful to all of the donors who provided items and experiences that helped make it such a success. From Silver Oak Wine Tastings to DeMar DeRozan signed jersey, there was something for everyone! A special shout out to volunteer Lela Goo, who’s skills and creativity added amazingly beautiful, one-of-a-kind custom cakes to the dessert auction.

Returning Crowd Favorites…

No crab feed would be complete without a little friendly competition, and the ever-popular “Last Person Standing” raffle delivered plenty of laughs and suspense. Special thanks to Lorna “The General,” Bev, and Pam, whose leadership and enthusiasm helped make this crowd-favorite activity such a highlight of the evening.Guests lined up to enjoy the famous homemade treats at the ACC Bake Sale, coordinated by Jean Shiomoto and an amazing team of bake sale volunteers who filled the table with irresistible goodies. From POG mochi and matcha rice crispy to cornflake macadamia nut cookies, attendees found something to satisfy their sweet tooth.

Volunteers are at the core of what we do.

Behind the scenes, dozens of volunteers worked tirelessly throughout the day—helping with event setup, serving food, bussing tables, kitchen prep, and cleanup. Their generosity of time and energy is a powerful reflection of the caring community that surrounds ACC.
We are also grateful to Giovanni’s Pizza for donating over 20 pizzas to help feed our hardworking volunteers, and to Western Foods for donating 200 pounds of Koda Farms Kokuho Rose rice for the evening’s fried rice.

Supporting Sacramento Seniors

The success of the Crab Feed is a testament to the incredible generosity of our community. From sponsors and donors to volunteers and guests, every person played a role in helping ACC continue its vital work of providing transportation, senior care, social programs, and culturally responsive services helping older adults live with dignity, connection, and independence.
To everyone who attended, volunteered, donated, and supported this event: thank you. Because of you, the ACC community continues to thrive, and together we are ensuring that the seniors we serve receive the care, respect, and support they deserve.

Photos Courtesy of ACC Camera Club – Jeff Jong & Jonathan Sakakibara

Sponsored by the Law Offices of Alyssa Chow

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Ringing in the Year of the Fire Horse

Scott Okamoto — Fri, 27 Feb 2026 21:05:07 +0000

On February 27, 2026, ACC Senior Services’ Campus 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, participants, staff, and neighbors for an afternoon that beautifully honored tradition, culture, and togetherness.

From the moment guests arrived, the atmosphere was festive and inviting. Red and gold decorations symbolizing prosperity and good fortune adorned the space, while laughter and conversation echoed throughout. The celebration was more than an event — it was a reflection of ACC’s commitment to cultural connection and meaningful engagement for the seniors we serve.

Captivating Performances

A highlight of the morning was the incredible lineup of live performances. ACC’s Tai Chi, Chinese Singing and Cultural Folk Dance groups filled the afternoon with excitement. Elegant fan dancers demonstrated their graceful movements mesmerizing the audience and drawing warm applause.

A Feast of Flavor

No Lunar New Year celebration is complete without delicious food — and this gathering did not disappoint. Guests enjoyed a thoughtfully prepared assortment of dishes symbolizing longevity, prosperity, and happiness. Everyone enjoyed a full plate while having thoughtful conversation as friends new and old, strengthening bonds and building new connections.

For many attendees, the food sparked fond memories and stories of celebrations past, creating moments of nostalgia and joy that are so meaningful for older adults.

Community at the Heart

What made the day truly special was the sense of belonging felt throughout the room. Community members who were visiting ACC for the first time experienced firsthand the warmth and hospitality that define our mission.

Events like this reflect the heart of ACC Senior Services — honoring cultural heritage, fostering connection, and ensuring older adults feel seen, celebrated, and valued. The Lunar New Year celebration was not only a festive occasion, but a powerful reminder that when we come together across generations and backgrounds, we strengthen the entire community.

Thank you to everyone who attended, volunteered, performed, and helped make this day such a memorable start to the new year. We look forward to continuing to celebrate culture, community, and compassion all year long.

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Serving Up Community: A Generous Gift of Pickleball Nets

Guest Author — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 23:22:57 +0000

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.

“We play so much pickleball at ACC that we wanted to have high-quality nets for other players and for both of us to enjoy,” shared Peter and Ruby. “These nets are also very easy to set up and store.”

Two of the nets were donated in memory of Sam and Katherine Chin, Peter’ parents, who were longtime supporters of ACC. Katherine was also a resident at the ACC Care Center, where she received compassionate, long-term care. The remaining two nets were gifted personally by Peter and Ruby, who continue to be active members of ACC’s vibrant pickleball community.

“Our pickleball community is so wonderful and so strong,” they said. “ACC provides the perfect venue where we can gather to enjoy a sport that brings joy and connection to so many of us.”

ACC extends heartfelt gratitude to Peter and Ruby for their thoughtful donation and their ongoing commitment to fostering wellness, friendship, and fun on and off the court.

If you would like to make a lasting impact gift at ACC, please contact ACC’s Fund Development department at development@accsv.org

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Volunteer Spotlight

Corky Mau — Fri, 07 Nov 2025 14:10:00 +0000

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.

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.

She explains why she volunteers, “There’s a similar program in Japan that’s helping my 93-year old mother. I signed up two years ago to be an ACC Friendly Visitor volunteer.” She spends two hours, once a week with her program participants. “One of my seniors is a retired attorney and loves to chat about politics while we stroll through her garden. My other senior has a progressive disease, and we play board games during weekly visits.”
In between her senior visits, the rest of her week is consumed with teaching and performing taiko drumming. Kaori was born in Saitama, Japan, but didn’t take up taiko until she moved to California and joined the Sacramento Taiko Dan in 1993. “One day, my Sensei, Tiffany Tamaribuchi, asked me to help teach taiko at Koyasan Temple. She suggested I train with a professional instructor in Japan. I studied there for two years.”
Kaori also leads a Drum Circle for memory care residents at McMahon Terrace twice a month; and teaches taiko at the Hart Senior Center twice a week.

She learned that taiko drumming could be beneficial to individuals living with Parkinson’s. She approached the Parkinson’s Support Group at ACC with the idea of introducing drumming to their members. The Tuesday afternoon class only started six months ago, but it’s already popular with participants like Dennis Wong. He adds, “As a recently diagnosed person with Parkinson’s, I understand the importance of physical activity. I’m glad that ACC offers this special activity for us. Kaori exudes patience and warmth as she teaches us the fine art of taiko.”
Kaori also teaches two other taiko classes at ACC on Wednesdays.

Her longtime passion is Hello Kitty. Kaori shared an interesting factoid with me: the cat doesn’t have a mouth. The design choice is deliberate, allowing people to communicate through their heart rather than words.

She loves the outdoors. “In my younger days, I completed 10 marathons and more than 70 half-marathons. Now I just walk around my Pocket neighborhood. We try to fit in standup paddle boarding at Lake Natoma when we have free time,” says Kaori.

Kaori is devoted to her family. She met husband David during their years of performing taiko. They married in the Koyasan Temple in 2002. Their son, also David, will soon graduate with a degree in Anthropology from Sacramento State. Kaori makes an annual trip to Japan to see her relatives. Kaori adds, “I appreciate the help my mother gets in Japan. I’m happy to do the same for others in our ACC family.”

If you or someone you know would like to volunteer for ACC’s Friendly Visitor program, call 916-503-5386 or send an email to: resources@accsv.org to get more information.

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A Night of Music, Food, and Community: The Asian Pair Concert at ACC Senior Services

Scott Okamoto — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 22:14:39 +0000

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 Mary Nakamura and George Connor, Asian Pair. This lively event was not just about beautiful music—it was also about giving back. Proceeds from the night benefited ACC’s Lifelong Learning and Wellness Program (LLWP).

The concert drew an enthusiastic crowd, eager to enjoy Asian Pair’s dynamic performance. Their talent and energy brought smiles, applause, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of connection and celebration.

Of course, no ACC event would be complete without food – and this night was no exception. Chef Alfred delighted attendees with his delicious homemade beef chili and savory ginger beef fried rice. Meanwhile, ACC’s talented circle of bakers offered a mouthwatering spread of desserts that included everything from delicate egg tarts and fresh ginger cake, to chewy, flavorful coconut mochi. Every bite was a reminder of the generosity and care that this community puts into supporting one another.

Together, music, food, and friendship came together to create a night that not only entertained but also strengthened the programs that make a difference in the lives of so many older adults across Sacramento. Thanks to the support of attendees, performers, and volunteers, ACC’s LLWP & Home and Community Based Programs will continue to thrive, offering comfort and care to those who need it most.

A very special thank you to Mary Nakamura and George Connor for sharing their incredible talents and inspiring the event! Thank you to Chef Alfred and his kitchen crew for another amazing food sale! And last but not least, thank you to our bakers and volunteers who contributed to the evening!

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Mahjong Tournament #2

Scott Okamoto — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 23:17:26 +0000

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.

Mahjong, a game rich with history and cultural tradition, is more than just a pastime—it’s a way to bring people together. The tournament highlighted just that, with players ranging from seasoned experts to newer enthusiasts, all united by a love of the game and the joy of community.

The day began with warm welcomes, light refreshments, and the lively sounds of tiles shuffling across the tables. As rounds began, the atmosphere was electric – each hand played with careful strategy, punctuated by moments of cheers, sighs, and playful banter.

In addition to the excitement of the games themselves, the tournament celebrated the cultural significance of Mahjong in bringing generations together. Many participants shared personal stories of learning the game from parents or grandparents, passing down traditions that continue to thrive today.

Prizes were awarded, but the real victory was the camaraderie built throughout the day. “It wasn’t just about winning-it was about making friends, challenging myself, and celebrating something meaningful in our community,” said one participant.

As the final tiles were played and the last tables cleared, one thing was certain: the ACC Mahjong Tournament has quickly become a beloved tradition. We can’t wait to welcome even more players back for the next gathering!

Photos by Alan Kobayashi

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Mahjong bridges Generations

Alan Kobayashi — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 23:33:48 +0000

ACC Senior Services offers a vibrant and welcoming environment where older adults can enjoy the timeless game of Mahjong. Held regularly at the ACC campus, Mahjong sessions provide more than just entertainment—they help build community, stimulate cognitive function, and celebrate cultural tradition.

Participants gather around the Mahjong tables to engage in strategic play, share stories, and form lasting friendships. Whether seasoned players or curious beginners, all are welcome to join. Volunteers are often on hand to offer guidance, making it easy for newcomers to learn the game.

Mahjong at ACC is not just about playing tiles—it’s about connection, culture, and keeping the mind sharp. The program reflects ACC’s broader mission to support active aging through social engagement and lifelong learning.

For seniors looking to stay engaged and mentally fit, Mahjong at ACC Senior Services is a perfect blend of fun and fellowship.

The very first “ACC Mahjong Tournament” was held on Wednesday, May 21st, 2025. There were 48 players that participated in a fun filled morning of competition, culture, and community. There were prizes awarded for categories such as: most points, most wins, most losses, and the “Legacy Player” (the oldest player, which in this case was 101 years old!). The feedback was positive, and we hope this is the first of many Mahjong tournaments in the future.

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Volunteers Refresh ACC Care Center Planter Boxes

Bill Wong — Thu, 15 May 2025 04:44:54 +0000

Many families and ACC supporters are seeing positive changes at ACC’s Care Center on Rush River Drive under the leadership of its new administrator Heidi Wheeler and ACC’s Pres. & CEO Connie Rusynyk. Recognized by US News and World Report as one of the BEST in the nation for both Short-term and Long-term Care, the ACC Care Center is one of three Sacramento skilled nursing communities to receive this notable dual recognition in 2025.

While many great updates are happening inside the Care Center, 33 cheerful volunteers showed up with tools in hand and spent a sunny Saturday morning outside of the Care Center freshening up the planters behind the garden gazebo. Powered by donuts from Manley’s and BBQ pork buns from Dim Dim Bakery, these volunteers pulled weeds, pruned rose bushes, tilled the soil, laid mulch, and planted geraniums, marigolds, begonias, lemon thyme, and pineapple basil donated by Green Acres Nursery and Supply in Elk Grove. Seasoned local gardeners Lorna “The General” Fong and Sally Phelan helped instruct and direct the eager volunteers. Lorna and Sally also went to work fixing the aging drip irrigation system. After three short hours the planters looked amazing and in a few weeks ACC’s residents and their families will be able to enjoy some bright and colorful blooms and the fragrant scents of lemon, thyme, basil, and pineapple.

Sacramento County Supervisor Patrick Kennedy joined Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen who brought her two daughters and a crew of her dedicated district staff to pitch in as well. Special thanks to the volunteers from ARI, Inc., the Asian Pacific Islander Capital Association, and the following individuals for volunteering on this project: Rejie Baloyos, Michael Burckhard, Cynthia Curral, Lorna Fong, Joseph Garilli, Alexis Giang, Lily Ha, Samapreet Kaur, Patrick Kenedy, Margie Lie, Derrick Lim, Akenese Luluga, Leutu Luluga, Jim McRitchie, Zach Morris, John Nam, Leslie Sakai Nesley, Hana Nguyen, Lana Nguyen, Stephanie Nguyen, Farhad Noorzada, Anthony Pham, Sally Phelan, Bev Shimizu, Sylvia Tang, Ryan Tomlinson, Tai Tuioti, Bill Wong, Lynn Yamamoto, Hach Yasumura, Myra Young, and Eric Yuan.

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Senior Escort Program celebrates 2,500 walks with volunteers and participants!

Remy Tokunaga — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 20:04:27 +0000

In response to anti-Asian hate incidents, the Senior Escort Program was formed as a collaborative effort to protect seniors while out in the community. Over time, the program has evolved from a safety initiative to a source of independence and social connection for seniors – one walk at a time. The Senior Escort Program matches seniors with friendly volunteers who meet them at their home or a location of choice to take walks around the neighborhood, shop at local grocery stores, or navigate through doctors’ offices for appointments. During walks, participants are able to connect with volunteers one-on-one and boost their physical and mental health.

“At the heart of The Center’s Stop the Hate initiative is a commitment to equity, safety and hope for communities impacted by hate and bias. We are incredibly proud to support ACC’s Senior Escort Program through our CDSS Stop the Hate funding, which has transformed fear into connection and empowerment for seniors of all backgrounds. This incredible milestone of 2,500 walks exemplifies the power of community-based solutions in fostering inclusion and progress,” said Kaying Hang, president of The Center at Sierra Health Foundation, which serves as regional lead for Stop the Hate statewide, Northern California and San Joaquin Valley partnerships.

Recently, volunteers and participants gathered together at the ACC Senior Services campus to celebrate a milestone for the program. The Senior Escort Program has coordinated over 2500 individual walks throughout the Sacramento region. This is a major milestone reached since the programs humble beginnings in 2021, during the COVID-19 Pandemic, with just one volunteer and one participant. The rapid growth of the program is due in part to the amazing dedication of the many volunteer escorts.

Dani Lee was the first volunteer with the Senior Escort Program and shared the inaugural walk with participant Mollie Chow in 2021, “It is amazing to see how the program has grown from just one volunteer and one participant to now serving hundreds of people! To this day, Mollie and I are still friends four years later, and it is just a testament to how the program can connect two complete strangers and make lasting connections. The Senior Escort Program is a great way for people to give back to the community, but come away with lots of wisdom and lasting friendships.” Mollie adds “Walking is the best way to be active for me. Seniors like to get out and do things, but don’t always feel safe to do so, and we feel very accepted at ACC.”

Since 2021, the Senior Escort Program has thrived in a post-covid environment. With seniors feeling the isolation of the Pandemic, and family members encouraging their loved ones to get back out and socialize, SEP has become a lifeline in many seniors’ mental and physical health routines. “To be able to serve people in need is incredibly rewarding and it’s so simple. Sometimes basic human contact is all that’s required, whether it’s walking, shopping, chatting or just listening. By holding a hand or providing a steady arm, I definitely feel that I get as much benefit from the program as I give”, Mike Miller, a recent retiree and volunteer with ACC’s Senior Escort Program, explains, “This program has truly changed my life for the better. I have met so many wonderful people of varying ages and abilities. They are all inspiring. At the end of nearly every walk, one of us will say – “You made my day!” – and we mean it.”

Frank Lee, son of Helen Lee, who walks with Mike shared how this program has benefited his family, “it has been a true blessing. Besides having companionship outside of family members, mom said that talking with her new friends stimulates her mind. The volunteers have all been wonderful; they make connecting with mom look easy. Mom looks forward to going on her weekly walks with Mike. Sometimes they even walk to get coffee together. My mother and Mike bonded over their love of cooking and have shared tips on how to make oxtail stew. It is very comforting to me to know that mom is safe when she is out with Mike or with any of the other ACC volunteers.”

Jeri Shikuma, ACC Home & Community-Based Programs Administrator shares “At ACC, we’re focused on helping isolated seniors and their family caregivers make meaningful connections, build relationships, and “get out of the house” because our experience shows us, and studies prove, that isolation and loneliness are linked to poor physical and mental health outcomes including higher rates of chronic disease, depression, dementia, and suicide. To combat what the US Surgeon General has named our epidemic of isolation and loneliness, our Senior Escort Program (SEP) meets people where they live, and helps them feel safe and comfortable being out in the community to socialize, exercise, or accomplish daily errands and appointments. As an added benefit they often befriend the volunteers who accompany them, talking to them, and learning about their backgrounds, creating moments of connection and expanded awareness. The care and joy that result from these moments are contagious! The SEP truly is a model for how individuals and communities can be healthier, happier, and more connected.”

To learn more about the Senior Escort Program, volunteer or donate, please visit our website at https://www.accsv.org/senior-escort-program/ or call (916) 503-0292.

ACC Senior Services – Senior Escort Program (SEP)
7334 Park City Drive, Sacramento Ca 95831
https://www.accsv.org/

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