State of District 8

Anissa's Art Corner is more than an art space—it's a community home for creativity, connection, and healing. Founded in 2020 and entirely self-funded, Anissa John created a place where families can gather to explore their creativity and build lasting friendships.

She offers free arts and crafts for all ages, organizes paint parties, and provides a consistent, joyful outlet for self-expression in District 8.

Her art programs support emotional growth, family bonding, and community connection.

Anissa leads with love, proving that when we invest in imagination, we build stronger communities.

A fierce advocate and tireless volunteer, Margarita Chavez is the heart of the Detroit neighborhood and the eyes and ears on the ground for our office. Her deep understanding of city processes and reporting not only keeps her informed—but enables her to serve her community with intention, knowledge, and heart.

You’ll find Margarita picking up trash on her block, leading park clean-ups, and showing up—day after day—without ever seeking recognition. A past recipient of the Mayor’s Women of the Year award, she reminds us that leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about presence, consistency, and deep care.

Margarita embodies what it means when we say: We Got Us.

Rooted in love and legacy, The Stephens Foundation (TSF) is a powerful force in South Sacramento. Inspired by founder Kim Stephens' upbringing in a home that prioritized faith, resilience, and service, TSF exists to revitalize South Sacramento through empowerment and access.

From workforce development and environmental justice to community events and civic engagement, TSF shows up where it matters most.

Their work reminds us that healing begins when community leads the way—and We Got Us.

As Principal of Susan B. Anthony Elementary, Bao Moua is a visionary leader who advocates for educational equity and community transformation.

Her work extends far beyond the classroom - she’s a trusted voice on the 102-Acre Advisory Committee, advocating for transformative investment in the Meadowview community. Principal Moua understands that schools are not just places of learning—they are pillars of opportunity. Her leadership ensures students and families have the support, resources, and care they need to succeed.

For Principal Moua, the message is clear: Every child matters, our schools are our communities, and their hearts are our classrooms.

Deerfield Mesa Grande (DMG) is a shining example of what strong neighborhoods look like. Through phone trees, community alerts, and consistent meetings, DMG keeps their neighbors informed and connected.

Their model of communication, leadership, and care sets the standard for what neighborhood power truly means.

At DMG, neighbors are family, and community is everything.

When you walk into Café La Vies, you’re not just ordering a drink—you’re entering a hub for connection. Led by owner Anh, this neighborhood café offers more than good vibes and fresh coffee—it offers community.

Students study here, elders gather here, and neighbors feel at home here. Café La Vies supports local events, sponsors community work, and proves that small businesses have big impacts.

Thriving locally, giving generously—Cafe La Vies shows us the soul of South Sac.

Beatrice Harrison is the kind of volunteer who quietly holds a community together. A proud

member of the Deerfield Mesa Grande neighborhood and an honorary part of Team #HeartandHustle, she’s at every event—showing up with purpose and joy.

As an AARP liaison, Beatrice goes a step further—bringing resources to the community and meeting people where they are. She doesn’t wait to be asked—she acts, always with compassion.

Beatrice reminds us: volunteering is love in action.

Grace Longmire doesn’t wait for permission—she creates her own space. As a fierce advocate for youth voice in government, Grace has represented District 8 —not by asking for a seat to the table, but quite literally bringing her own.

From a young age, Grace has been driven to make a difference. She found her calling in community advocacy and school leadership—serving as Valley Hi’s Class President for three consecutive years, a Student Board Representative, Student Site Council Secretary, and a voice on the EGUSD Student Voice Committee.

She’s also a proud member of The Village Advocates of Sacramento, a youth-led advocacy group, and currently serves as your District 8 Youth Commissioner and Vice Chair of the City’s Youth Committee. Grace is more than a leader—she’s a force. She shows up, speaks up, and lifts others as she leads. Her story reminds us: youth aren't just the future—they are the now. And when Grace is at the table, the community is in good hands.

From the Office of Diversity & Equity, Aimee Barnes, Diversity & Equity Manager and Larissa Wohl, Strategic Workforce Equity Analyst have been instrumental in advancing Sacramento’s racial equity efforts. Their leadership drives the SCORE Initiative, strengthens the City’s partnership with the Racial Equity Alliance, and supports internal DEIB work across City departments.

These are two City staff members who truly model the values of co-governance—demonstrating how community shapes local government. They ensure that the inclusion of community voices isn’t an afterthought, but a foundational part of how decisions are made, and policies are created.

Together, they champion policies that uplift historically excluded voices, foster accountability, and reimagine what equity in government can and should look like. Their work reminds us that racial justice is not a moment—but a long-term commitment that the City of Sacramento must uphold and center—not only in their department, but citywide.