Community Needs Survey
Assessing the Needs and Priorities of African American Elders in Sacramento, California:
A Community-Based Study
Shaping the Future of Aging for Communities Across Our Region
The Urban Blackwell is conducting a countywide Needs Assessment to better understand the experiences, priorities, and aging-related needs of African Americans in Sacramento County. This study relies on community voice and data-driven analysis to identify strengths, challenges, and opportunities to build a more supportive, culturally relevant ecosystem for Black elders.
Black older adults have historically faced distinct challenges that impact their ability to age well and even die well. Despite a consistent growing trend among the 60+ population, limited local data exists that centers their voice, needs, and current experiences in Sacramento County; this assessment aims to close that gap.
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Through honest feedback from older adults (55+), caregivers, families, and community members, we aim to gain a clearer understanding of what supports are effective, where gaps exist, and what is needed to ensure Black elders in Sacramento County can age with dignity, security, wellness, cultural belonging, and joy.​
Findings from this independent study will guide policy, funding, and program development. Every donation supports a deeper understanding and meaningful action for African American elders in Sacramento. We welcome support from funders and community-aligned partners for outreach, data collection, analysis, and dissemination.
Participation is free; donations are optional.
Ways You Can Participate
We welcome participation from elders, caregivers, families, community members, service providers, and allies. You can also participate in more than one way.
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Take the Survey
The survey takes about 20–30 minutes and can be completed on any phone, tablet, or computer. Click here to take the survey.
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Share the Survey With Your Community
With family, church members, local groups, caregivers, neighbors, and organizations serving older adults.
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Participate in a 1:1 interview or a focus group
Can be held over the phone, online, or we can set up focus group meeting opportunities. Click here to schedule.
Reach Out
If you need help completing the survey, we're here to support. Click here to contact.
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The survey is currently open and will be open through May 2026.
Survey results will be shared in Fall 2026.
Ethical Review Statement
This project has been reviewed by an independent ethics reviewer and determined to meet federal criteria for Exempt Research under 45 CFR 46.104(d)(2). Exempt status means the study involves minimal risk and does not require ongoing Institutional Review Board (IRB) oversight. Participation is voluntary, and you may stop the survey at any time. Some questions such as: age, ZIP code, and racial identity, are required because they are essential to the purpose of this community needs assessment.