For the last 55 years, the Assistance League of Sacramento has been a multifaceted beacon of hope and support for individuals and communities throughout the area, powered by the love of their all-volunteer staff and their commitment to infusing people’s lives with compassion and care.
“There’s something so important about building community, especially after this long recovery from COVID lockdowns and how it changed the way we live our lives,” says Carol Wacker, Assistance League Sacramento president. “Not only are people in need of resources, but they’re in need of connection. Everyone needs to feel like they aren’t alone and I’m so proud to be a part of an organization that helps create communities.”
What sets Assistance League of Sacramento apart is its unique approach to community service. Through the dozens of organizations and thousands of people they serve, their mission dictates never assuming what resources are needed. Each organization, school or community group that Assistance League of Sacramento serves makes specific lists catered to their specific needs, which are then fulfilled by Wacker, her team and Assistance League volunteers.
“Everyone needs something different,” Wacker says. “A new, young mother is going to need something far different than a recently aged-out foster youth, and if we only provide a cookie-cutter template of care, it just wouldn’t have the same effect. That’s why we love to be able to take the time and make sure we are filling the gaps that truly need to be filled in people’s lives.”
“As a 10-year member of the advisory committee, I have never worked with such a motivated and talented group of (primarily) women of all ages. … I continue to be inspired and surprised by this dedicated group of community volunteers.” — Christeen Reeg, CAPTRUST
The organization’s impact is felt at every stage of life, from the earliest days of infancy to the challenges of adulthood. Through a myriad of programs and initiatives, Assistance League of Sacramento addresses the diverse needs of its community members with care and precision. These can be anything from scholarships for community college students, “welcome home” and first-home bins for unhoused communities and foster youth transitioning to independence, to the Clothes for Careers program and provision of school supplies, clothing, shoes and books to 41 schools throughout Sacramento.
At the heart of their funding model is the Assistance League of Sacramento’s Fabulous Finds on Fulton resale shop, located at 2751 Fulton Ave. This unassuming store serves as not only the financial backbone of the organization, but also as a secret treasure trove of vintage goods and fabulous finds. Much like the organization itself, the thrift store has something for everyone.
In a world where community support is more crucial than ever, Assistance League of Sacramento stands as a shining example of the power of volunteerism and the profound impact it can have on the lives of those in need.
