3 About Florin Square
Tom Donaldson - Owner
Donaldson Properties
916-600-3029 (cell)
916-706-1634 (office)
Tom141@inreach.com
Florin Square, known as Sacramento’s Black Wall Street, is a dynamic hub for business, culture, and community - home to over 100 enterprises, including the Sojourner Truth African Heritage Museum and Digital Café and Lounge, driving economic empowerment, creativity, connection, and vibrant local commerce.
Community Development Corporation
Executive Director - FSCDC
Marketing Director - Florin Square (916) 215-1831 ab.fscdc@yahoo.com
Supporting small business and local ownership
Celebrating black history, art, and culture
Call to reserve in/outdoor event areas
Call to reserve Retail, Office, and Event Space today
Administration
Samantha Donaldson
Robin Donaldson
Maintenance
Keith Dent
Mark Grooms
Ernest Nibblins
Events, education, and year-round connections
Strategically located in Sacramento’s high-traffic transit corridor
South Sacramento
Oak Park
Del Paso Heights
Graphics
Lea Boyce – Magazine Design
Photography
Grooms;
Jas K Photography
Community Services
Michelle Martin Neal
Constance Arnick
Meadowview Downtown Rancho Cordova Old Sacramento Carmichael
4
"Art saved my life, it has allowed me to see and look at the world through a colorful lens. Art sends a message be it good or bad, happy or sad it can even express love and war. Art is my voice without speaking, I can speak as loud as I want and no one would ever say shhhh…”
Gerry “GOS” Simpson
Art & Culture
Painting the Soul of Sacramento: The Art ofJerry Gos
Sacramento artist Jerry Gos has built a respected reputation as one of the region’s most distinctive contemporary painters. Known for bold colors, layered textures, and emotionally charged compositions, Gos’ work captures the beauty, complexity, and resilience of Black life and culture. Over the years, his paintings have become recognizable for their expressive style and the way they blend storytelling with powerful visual impact.
A longtime figure in Sacramento’s arts community, Gos has dedicated much of his career to portraying African American identity, history, and everyday experiences through art. His work often features vibrant figures, abstract backgrounds, and rhythmic movement that reflect influences from music, culture, and community life. Rather than focusing on strict realism, Gos uses color and form to communicate mood and narrative, allowing viewers to feel the energy of the scene as much as see it.
Gos’ artwork has been displayed in galleries, community venues, and exhibitions throughout the Sacramento region, helping expand appreciation for contemporary Black art in Northern California. Collectors and community supporters are drawn not only to the visual beauty of his work but also to its deeper cultural meaning. Each piece reflects an artist committed to honoring heritage while also exploring new artistic directions.
Beyond creating paintings, Gos has played an important role in supporting Sacramento’s creative community. His work has helped bring attention to the importance of local artists and the role art plays in shaping cultural identity Through exhibitions, collaborations, and community engagement, he continues to inspire both emerging artists and long-time art lovers.
GOS" is also a survivor After a traumatic fall that broke his neck, he rebuilt his life through determination, faith, and daily creative practice. Painting became both therapy and revelation, deepening his spiritual connection and ushering in a transformative chapter of his career
Today, Jerry Gos remains an influential presence in Sacramento’s visual arts scene. His work stands as both artistic expression and cultural storytelling while capturing moments, emotions, and histories that resonate deeply within the community As Sacramento’s arts landscape continues to grow, Gos’ paintings remain a vivid reminder of the power of art to celebrate culture, spark conversation, and preserve the spirit of a community.
Aaron Boyce, nationally known public speaker and Author of “Seize the Opportunity...and other marketing tips” serves as the Marketing Director of Florin Square and the Executive Director of Florin Square Community Development Corporation (FSCDC). He is available for small business consultations, public speaking training, as well as keynotes, seminars, and workshops.
Uncertainty is an unavoidable part of doing business. Markets change, opportunities appear and disappear, and circumstances beyond our control can quickly shift the landscape. For leaders and organizations, the real challenge is not avoiding uncertainty - it is learning how to move forward in spite of it.
The work of the Florin Square Community Development Corporation (FSCDC) illustrates this reality clearly Over the past several years, FSCDC has focused on strengthening Florin Square as a center for entrepreneurship, culture, and community engagement in South Sacramento. Like many organizations operating in dynamic environments, FSCDC has had to navigate changing conditions related to the future of the property itself.
Situations like this often create anxiety for organizations, tenants, and community stakeholders. When the future of a major asset is unclear, it can feel as though progress is temporarily on hold. However, experienced leaders understand that uncertainty is not a signal to stop working but instead it is a signal to think more strategically
Rather than allowing uncertainty to stall momentum, organizations must focus on what they can control. That includes strengthening relationships, supporting existing businesses, expanding programming, and continuing to demonstrate the value of the work being done. When an organization remains active, productive, and visible, it sends an important signal: progress does not depend on perfect conditions.
In many ways, uncertainty can actually sharpen leadership. It forces organizations to revisit assumptions, improve communication, and stay disciplined about their long-term mission. For FSCDC, that mission remains clear: supporting small businesses, fostering community engagement, and expanding opportunities for economic growth.
The lesson for any business or nonprofit is straightforward. Plans may evolve and circumstances may shift, but the underlying mission must remain steady. Leaders who maintain focus, continue building partnerships, and keep their communities engaged position themselves to succeed regardless of changing conditions.
In the end, uncertainty is not the enemy of progress. It is the engine that drives progress.
EmpoweringYouth ThroughMentorship, Wellness,andGrowth
916.248.1081
info@sacyouthcenter.org
Sacramento Youth Center
The Sacramento Youth Center (SYC) is a welcoming space where youth ages 14 to 24 can learn, connect, and lead. Through mentorship, education, and leadership development, SYC helps young people build life skills, strengthen confidence, and find their place in the community.
Located at 1901 Del Paso Blvd,
SYC operates out of a large, youth- www.sacyouthcenter.org, centered facility that includes classrooms, activity spaces, and its very own Café Paso. The café offers a safe and social environment where youth can relax, study, and build friendships over a cup of coffee or tea. Café Paso has become a hub of connection and creativity—a place where ideas and relationships grow.
At the heart of SYC is the Peer Mentoring Class, where youth explore the 8 Dimensions of Wellness—emotional, social, physical, intellectual, environmental, occupational, financial, and directional. Each week, students engage in interactive lessons, journaling, and group discussions that encourage self-awareness, healthy habits, and teamwork.
Over the past five years, SYC has trained 700+ peer mentors and served thousands of unique youth. In just the first six months of this year, over 450 students have received direct services, and another 400 youth have participated through our drop-in center
SYC’s programs also include case management, college and career readiness workshops, community service opportunities, and highlight experiences such as the Week of Service and annual camping trip—both designed to inspire leadership and connection. Youth who complete programs receive incentives like gift cards, certificates, or special trips to celebrate their growth.
“We believe true transformation happens in relationship.”
From someone who first joined SYC at 13 and now serves as a Program Specialist, I can say the mentors here changed my life.As a refugee, they showed me that I could belong in a new country. They opened doors to experiences and opportunities I never imagined having.
SYC continues to prove that when youth are supported and empowered, they become leaders and changemakers—ready to build a stronger, healthier, and more connected community.”
Independent retailers operate on tight margins. Rising rent, payroll pressure, inventory costs, and unpredictable foot traffic leave little room for inefficiency. Artificial Intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept - it's a practical profitability tool when applied correctly.
How AI Can Improve the Bottom Line of Small Business
One of the most immediate gains comes from smarter inventory management. AIpowered retail systems such as Shopify Magic, Lightspeed Retail, and Square for Retail analyze sales history, seasonality, and product velocity to forecast demand. Instead of overstocking slow-moving products or running out of best-sellers, retailers can purchase with precision. Fewer markdowns and fewer stockouts directly protect gross margins.
Pricing optimization is another overlooked opportunity. Tools such as Prisync and Intelligems analyze competitor pricing and demand trends, helping retailers test small price adjustments or promotional strategies. Even modest changes based on demand data can improve overall profitability without alienating customers.
Financial clarity is critical for small operators. AI-enabled accounting platforms like QuickBooks Online Advanced and Xero automatically categorize expenses, flag unusual transactions, and project cash flow. Instead of discovering problems at month-end, retailers gain real-time financial visibility and can make faster adjustments.
Customer retention is where AI truly compounds revenue. Marketing automation platforms such as Klaviyo, Mailchimp (AI
features), and HubSpot CRM track purchasing behavior and trigger personalized follow-ups. If a customer hasn't shopped in 45 days, the system can automatically send a targeted offer. Increasing repeat purchase frequency by even 10–15% can materially lift annual revenue.
Operational automation also frees up time. Tools like Zapier can connect systemsautomatically updating inventory, syncing sales data, or triggering email campaignseliminating repetitive manual tasks. That time can be reinvested into merchandising and customer service. The key is strategic adoption. AI should address specific friction points: inventory inefficiency, payroll misalignment, pricing uncertainty, or customer attrition. When aligned properly, AI becomes a margin-expansion engine.
Retail is still about relationships. AI simply removes guesswork and replaces it with datadriven precision - protecting profits in an increasingly competitive marketplace.
Next, you will see two retail stores, located in Florin Square, that are using AI to expand space, decrease clutter, enhance the customer shopping experience, and increase revenue.
9 Business COVER STORIES
The Retail Profit Lab is a results-driven initiative designed to help Florin Square retailers and guests increase revenue through strategic merchandising, layout optimization, and customer experience upgrades. Guided by Aaron Boyce, the Lab combines AI-assisted insights with real-world expertise in organization, marketing, money management, and nonprofit operations to deliver practical, actionable strategies. To date, eight FS retail tenants have been critiqued and supported through targeted improvements. Make an appointment at ab.fscdc@yahoo.com—only $150 for a 90-minute session.
Shirley's Sugar N Spice has evolved into a space that feels intentional, inviting, and distinctly boutique. What was once a product-rich environment is now a curated retail experience where every item has presence and purpose.
The transformation is most evident in the clarity of presentation. Products are now cleanly organized, easy to navigate, and visually appealing - allowing customers to immediately understand the offerings. Shelving and counter space work together to highlight key items, creating a polished, high-end feel.
Beyond organization, the shop now tells a stronger brand story The mix of fragrances, wellness products, and cultural elements is cohesive and expressive, turning the space into more than a store - it's an experience. Decorative accents and textures reinforce identity while elevating overall perception.
Customer interaction has also been enhanced. The layout encourages browsing, discovery, and engagement, making it easier for customers to connect with products and spend more time in the space.
At the center of it all is Shirley, now positioned as both owner and brand ambassador—welcoming, knowledgeable, and integral to the experience.
This is more than a refresh—it's a strategic elevation into boutique retail.
Jewelry by Teesha has undergone a powerful evolution -transforming into a space that feels intentional, elevated, and distinctly boutique-driven. What stands out immediately is the shift from simple product display to a fully realized retail environment.
The presentation is now sharp and deliberate. Jewelry is showcased with clarity and spacing that allows each piece to command attention. The use of bust forms, tiered shelving, and structured layouts creates a gallery-like experience, positioning the products as statement pieces rather than inventory
There's also a strong sense of brand identity and cohesion. The color palette, textures, and styling elements—like the accent rug and lighting—work together to create a polished, upscale atmosphere. This is no longer just a shop; it feels like a curated collection. Equally important is the enhanced customer journey The open layout invites movement, exploration, and discovery Customers can easily navigate categories, compare pieces, and engage with the merchandise in a way that naturally supports higher-value purchases.
And with Teesha positioned confidently within the space, the shop gains a powerful personal touch, reinforcing trust and connection.
This transformation elevates the business into a boutique destination -designed for experience, engagement, and increased sales performance.
Artisan
After Before
After Before
11 Community
The story of the Black Parallel School Board (BPSB)
by Carl Pinkston and Faye Wilson Kennedy, founding members
Founded in February 2008, the Black Parallel School Board (BPSB) is a community-based organization that works alongside the Sacramento City Unified School District (SCUSD). Its main responsibility is supporting Black students’ educational growth and achievement. To do that, the BPSB monitors all school educational activities and programs to ensure they meet the needs of African-descended students.
The Black Parallel School Board was established out of Sacramento State professor Dr. Otis Scott’s frustration with the quality of education for Black students. At a Sacramento Area Black Caucus (SABC) meeting in 2006, he strongly emphasized the seriousness of the issue and the urgency for Black people to take action, noting that the gap had been widely acknowledged for decades and was getting worse rather than better After his speech, the Caucus appointed a Task Force to develop an action plan, and among its recommendations was the creation of a parallel board. Executive Council Members included Faye Wilson Kennedy, Chair, LaShanya Breazell, Treasurer, Ursula DeWitt, Secretary, Carl Pinkston, members, and Marian Bryson as Parent Organizer
How to connect with BPSB: Our meetings are held on the first Saturday of each month at 10 AM on Zoom, except for July These meetings are open to the public. Our office is located at 4625 44th Street, Rm 5, Sacramento, CA 95820. You can contact us at (916) 484-3729 or fax us at (916) 453-0622. Our email is info@blackparallelschoolboard.com, and our website is https://blackparallelschoolboard.com. We are also on Facebook and Twitter.
On Sunday, January 18, 2026, the Florin Square Community Development Corporation (FSCDC) was honored to be invited by Golden 1 Credit Union to participate in the Charity Shootout held during a Sacramento Kings game at the Golden 1 Center The high-energy event placed community organizations on center court for a chance to earn funding that supports their programs and services.
Representing was Blake Robinson, a talented 16-year-old high school FSCDC junior selected as our official Shootout Champion. The challenge required participants to make four progressively difficult basketball shots: a layup, a free throw, a three-point shot, and the ultimate half-court shot. Demonstrating impressive composure, skill, and athletic ability in front of thousands of fans, Blake successfully completed two of the four shots. His strong performance earned $3,000 in charitable support. FSCDC
The funds will directly support community initiatives, including small business development, youth FSCDC’s engagement programs, educational workshops, and cultural events that serve the broader South Sacramento community.
The Golden 1 Charity Shootout is part of Golden 1 Credit Union’s broader commitment to community investment. The program invites nonprofit organizations from across the region to take part in the on-court competition during Sacramento Kings games, offering them the opportunity to win up to $10,000 to advance their missions. The initiative combines entertainment with philanthropy, highlighting local organizations while generating meaningful financial support for their work. Golden 1 Credit Union
For , the opportunity represented more than a fundraising moment—it was a celebration of community FSCDC pride, youth talent, and the power of partnership in advancing programs that uplift and serve the region.
TICKETS NOW ON SALE
The Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce proudly invites the community to the 54th Annual SALUD! Business Awards, one of the region’s most anticipated celebrations of Latino entrepreneurship, leadership, and economic impact.
For more than five decades, the SALUD! Awards have honored individuals and organizations whose work strengthens the economic vitality of the Sacramento region while uplifting and advancing the Latino business community.
This year’s celebration will take place on Thursday, April 9, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Mack Powell Event Center in Sacramento, bringing together business leaders, entrepreneurs, community advocates, and regional partners for an evening of recognition, connection, and celebration.
The program will recognize outstanding leaders across several categories, including Entrepreneur of the Year, Small Business of the Year, Community Impact Award, and Corazón de la Comunidad, highlighting the diverse contributions shaping the future of our region.
Attendees can expect an inspiring evening featuring award presentations, networking opportunities, and the chance to celebrate the individuals and organizations helping drive economic growth and opportunity across the Sacramento region.
The SALUD! Awards continue to serve as a powerful reminder that the strength of our region’s economy is deeply connected to the success of Latino businesses, entrepreneurs, and community leaders.
Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available. Visit sachcc.org/salud to learn more.
916-694-3082
wombfoundation@yahoo.com
Women Out of Major Bondage, known as WOMB, is a community organization dedicated to helping women overcome difficult life circumstances and rebuild their futures. The organization focuses on supporting women who are facing or recovering from challenges such as substance abuse, incarceration, domestic violence, homelessness, poverty, trauma, and other life-altering hardships. Through guidance, resources, and encouragement, WOMB aims to help women break free from cycles that have limited their opportunities and prevented them from achieving stability.
At the center of WOMB’s mission is the belief that every woman deserves compassion, understanding, and a second chance. The organization works to meet women where they are in their personal journeys, offering support without judgment. By recognizing that each woman’s experiences and struggles are unique, WOMB provides individualized assistance to help participants move toward a healthier and more independent future.
WOMB connects women with a wide range of essential resources that support both immediate needs and long-term growth. These resources include help finding safe and stable housing, access to employment opportunities, job-readiness training, and educational support. In addition, the organization helps women connect with mental health services, recovery programs, and mentorship opportunities that provide guidance throughout the healing process. By addressing practical needs as well as emotional well-being, WOMB helps participants create a strong foundation for long-term success.
In addition to offering resources, WOMB places a strong focus on empowerment. The organization encourages women to rebuild their confidence and rediscover their sense of identity after facing difficult experiences. Through mentorship, encouragement, and skillbuilding opportunities, participants develop important life skills that help them become selfsufficient and independent. These skills help women maintain stability and continue moving forward in their personal and professional lives.
WOMB also recognizes that when women are supported and empowered, the positive effects extend far beyond the individual. Stronger, healthier women can help strengthen their families and contribute to more stable communities. Through outreach initiatives, partnerships with local organizations, and community engagement, WOMB works to build a support network that ensures women do not have to face their challenges alone.
The organization’s approach combines encouragement, accountability, and careful planning. Participants are encouraged to set goals and make measurable progress toward long-term stability and success.
Ultimately, WOMB is more than just a program. It represents a movement focused on restoration, resilience, and renewal. By equipping women with the tools, resources, and support they need, the organization strives to create lasting change for individuals, families, and the broader community.
14 Florin Square Past Events
In celebration of Black History Month, community promoter Greg King partnered with the Florin Square Community Development Corporation and the Sojourner Truth African Heritage Museum to present a powerful weeklong tribute honoring Sacramento’s Black pioneers at Florin Square.
Held February 9–15, 2026 in the Obama Room, the exhibit Past, Present, & Future invited visitors to explore the legacy, achievements, and ongoing contributions of African American leaders who helped shape the region.
The exhibition featured historical displays and storytelling recognizing influential figures such as Frank Withrow, Dr. William Lee, Sam Pannell and Bonnie Pannell, along with tributes to the historic Buffalo Soldiers. The program also highlighted cultural and civic trailblazers including choreographer Pepper Von, educator and activist Tchaka Muhammad, and City Council member Callie Carney
Very well attended and highly rated by visitors, the exhibit provided a meaningful and inspiring tribute to Sacramento’s Black heritage while reinforcing Florin Square’s role as a vital center for culture, history, and community engagement.
On Sunday, December 21, 2025, the Florin Square Community Development Corporation hosted its 4th Annual FSCDC Appreciation Luncheon at Florin Square. The gathering served as a moment to recognize the partners and leaders who continue to strengthen the Florin Square ecosystem. Sponsors, board members, and community collaborators were honored for their service, strategic guidance, and ongoing support.
Special appreciation was extended to partners including Sacramento Municipal Utility District, the California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce, the California Black Chamber of Commerce, Donaldson Properties, Golden 1 Credit Union, FM Bank, Florin Square tenants, and the on-site maintenance team. Guests enjoyed powerful spoken word by Sacramento Poet Laureate Terry Moore and an exceptional lunch prepared by local caterer Hazel Valera.
The event celebrated collaboration and reaffirmed a shared commitment to advancing entrepreneurship and community development at Florin Square.
Florin Square Tenant Directory Call leasing
2251 Florin Road Sacramento, CA 95822
Admin/Museum/Cafe
131 Donaldson Properties
120 FSCDC
132 Obama Room Conference Center
99 Dance and Exercise Studio
100 Executive Conference Room
156 Digital Café and Lounge
125 Sojourner Truth Heritage Museum
Professional Services
23 Amseven Insurance
64 Gerald Glover Construction
65 PrefeRealty
70 Simply Unique Community Services
88 Dale McKinney Law Office
97 One Solution
146 Maxx Refunds Tax Services
161 Northland Janitorial Services
201 ROCC Solid Advisement
Available For Lease
159 Available
4 Gorgeous Brows and Make-up
5 Kelly’s Int’l Hairstyles & Cut
24 Limpieza Facial
72 EH-Aesthetics 4 You
85 Leon’s Alterations
103 Dr T Does Locs
106 Bellas Y Guapos Hair Services
18A Media Design Pros/Print Shop
66 Top Tier Print/ChillyStone
79 Ivan in The House
92 Kre8tive Shot Media
94 Allan Gordon Artist
129 Get Yours Custom Design
153 Monique Alexander
Community Services
www.florinsquare.com www.fscdc.org
11 Starting With A Penny
20 New Beginnings Church
45 River of Jordan
50 Earth Mama Healing
55 Impoverished Orphan
61 Denise Project
63 Birdhouse Fly Away
73 Voice of the Youth
74 The Gardens
76 ThreeSeeds
77 WOMB
82 Wake-Up Foundation
93 CNIAAA
96 Community Support Initiative
98 Melanin Day School
102 Blessed Kingdom
103 Saint Nia Foundation, Inc.
113 Escape Velocity
121 Greater Evangelistic Ministries
122 Melanin Day SchoolAcademy
12 Busy Bea Creationz
107 Afrikico International Market
108 Ethio Nectar / Nubian Family
109 Nikki’s Dollar Jewelry & More
110 Boost Mobile
111 The Mecca
112 Back 2 Nature Skincare by Tera
113 All Things Literacy
114 Artisan Jewelry by Teesha
115 Bijoul Creatives
116 Bridal Decors N Things
117 Pure Culture
118 iits Rob the Barber
130 Leon’s Exc. Designs &Accessories
134 The African House
135 The Renee Collection
137 3rd Eye Tweekin
138 Diamonds & Pearls
139 Chic Boutique
147 Elloie’s Custom Design & Repair
22 Painting On Our Own
and Self-Care
Around Medical
WellAdultActivity Center
157 Exceptional Journey
Day Program 19 Bright Essentials LLC
123 REACH Fellowship
124 Travelers Aid
142 Officina Latina AA
145 Al-Anon
203 Race & Gender Equity Project
204 New Beginnings Church Office
148 Hidden Gems Thrift Store
150 Shirley’s Sugar N Spice
152 Carolz Creations
154 All Weather Fashion
