*This is a special feature from the City of San Jose, Department of Parks, Recreation and Neighborhood Services 

"As COVID-19 began almost a year ago, our team has been working tirelessly to ensure our community has the resources they need," says Milan Balinton, Executive Director of the African-American Community Service Agency (AACSA). "By expanding the AACSA CARES program, our agency stepped up in a big way to help members of our community by clarifying information, connecting people to resources and expanding our emergency food basket program."

As one of the only African-American cultural centers in Silicon Valley, our #SiliconValleyStrongHeroes’ mission is to preserve a diverse African-American community, cultural traditions and provide services to all residents of Santa Clara County regardless of race, religion, age or disability.

Utilizing its six guiding principles of education, health and wellness, economic development, social services, racial and social justice, as well as a FIRST 5 Family Resource Center (FRC), AACSA has been providing for the needs of our community.

AACSA supplied over 9,000 individuals and families with emergency food baskets, toiletries, mental health services, technology and additional services through their CARES program. In addition, as a FRC site, AACSA members have had increased access to medical and behavioral health services, supportive child and family programs and develop community connections.

Our #SiliconValleyStrongHeroes centralizes culturally relevant resources, networks of influence, education support systems and services to support residents.

In Santa Clara County, those of African and African-American descent have relocated and slowly population numbers have declined, and now number only 2.4 - 2.8% of our population. AACSA’s continued presence in the community allows residents a place to connect and gather.

The African-American Community Service Agency has a commitment to serve our community with urgency, compassion and community involvement. Volunteering is an important component of the organization. It is a great way to meet new people, gain leadership experience and make a difference. AACSA is always looking for committed civic-minded individuals to help. For more details, visit www.sjaacsa.org/volunteering.

AACSA is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization. To become a member, renew membership or learn about their membership benefits, please contact 408-292-3157 or email info@sjaacsa.org.

For more information about this week's #SiliconValleyStrongHeroes, please visit www.sjaacsa.org.