About

Strength in Unity since 1978

Our Mission

It is the mission of the African American Community Service Agency to preserve the dignity and culture of a diverse African American Community, and to provide services that promote the full participation of Santa Clara County and the general society.

Our Vision

Our vision is to empower all Black and historically excluded communities through economic justice, education, and access, creating a future where equity and opportunity thrive.
The African American Community Service Agency (AACSA), established in 1978, proudly serves as one of Silicon Valley's few African American cultural hubs. Guided by our mission to deliver high-quality educational, cultural, social, and recreational programs, we aim to celebrate and preserve African American identity, culture, values, traditions, knowledge, and family life. This mission is the cornerstone of all our initiatives.AACSA welcomes members from all backgrounds, regardless of race, religion, age, or ability, fostering an inclusive environment. Our diverse programs and services provide a meaningful connection to African American life and culture. The agency’s work is built on three foundational pillars, which drive our commitment to community empowerment and engagement.

Education

Advocacy

Community Building

The Three Pillars That Guide Our Vision

Education. Advocacy. Community Building.
These pillars represent the core values on which our programs and services are built.

Education
  • Health & Wellness
  • Economic Development
  • AACSA Leadership Academy (ALA)
  • Senior Citizens Connected (SCC)
  • STEAM on Saturday (SOS)
  • Warrior Jackson Bridge Library (WJBL)
Advocacy
  • Policies
  • FEAC
  • Reparations
  • Food on the Table
  • Housing | Health | Healing & Wellness
Community Building
  • Economic Empowerment
  • AACSA CARES
  • AACSA Goes Mobile
  • Information Resources & Connections
  • Black Fridays
  • Workforce Development

Our Values

Service, Collaboration, Power Building, Impact, and Accountability.

Service

To passionately serve the community through resourcefulness rooted in integrity, respect, and acceptance.

  • Enthusiasm
  • Respect
  • Team Work
  • Enthusiasm
  • Resourcefulness
  • Compassion
  • Integrity

Collaboration

To strategically promote equity, access, culture, as well as social and racial justice through purposeful partnerships.

  • Partnership
  • Social Justice
  • Heritage/Culture
  • Community and community partnerships
Power Building

To collectively strengthen the influence and capabilities of Black/African ancestry communities and all historically excluded groups.

  • Responsibility
  • Calculate Risk Taking
  • Equity
  • Access
  • People-Centered Strategies
Impact

To advocate for change across environments, societies, and individuals, fostering growth within the culture, enhancing health, and addressing inequities for a better future.

  • Growth
  • Heritage/Culture
  • Health
  • Accuracy
Accountability

To uphold responsibility, integrity, and trust, cultivating consistent respectful teamwork through dignified service.

  • Consistency
  • Respect
  • Team Work
  • Honesty/Trust
  • Integrity
  • Accuracy
  • Internal and external expectations

Signature Programs

  • Annual Back to School
  • Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Luncheon
  • Annual Juneteenth Education and Celebration

Initiatives

  • Stronger Systems, Stronger Families - FIRST 5 Santa Clara County
  • National Black Child Development Institute (NBCDI) Village
  • Blue Zones, City of San Jose
  • The Children and Youth Services Master Plan, City of San Jose
  • Family Health Services
A Word from the Executive Director
AACSA is here to serve the general public of Santa Clara County. If you have a need, an idea, and or would like to get involved, please contact our staff who are here to serve.