St. HOPE: Home
Author Talk featuring Charlene Johnson
Underground Books Presents
Join us at Underground Books for a powerful and uplifting author event with Coach Charlene Johnson, featuring her latest book When the Moment Chooses You. Through a live reading and discussion, Charlene will share her journey of resilience, purpose, and leadership in the face of adversity. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful conversation, ask questions, and get their books personally signed. This event is perfect for anyone seeking inspiration to rise, speak out, and make an impact.This FREE event is open to all—come celebrate, connect, and honor Black h
Family Movie Matinee
Guild Theater
Join us for a free family movie matinee at the Guild Theater on Sunday, May 4, at 2 PM, featuring Sonic the Hedgehog 3. In this exciting new installment, Sonic teams up with his friends to face off against new enemies and save the world from danger. Packed with thrilling action, humor, and heart, Sonic 3 promises a fun-filled experience for audiences of all ages. Bring the whole family for an afternoon of adventure and excitement at the Guild Theater!
Comedy Night
Guild Theater
Join us for a night of nonstop laughter on Saturday, May 24, 2025. Hosted by Sacramento’s own Dru Burks, this comedy event features a stellar lineup:
Alvin Duke – Clever, sharp, and sure to keep you laughing.
Hannibal Thompson – A seasoned comedian and actor with worldwide experience, from USO tours to top comedy clubs.
Headliner: EastSide IVO – Viral comedy sensation with millions of followers.
Time:
Doors open at 7:00 PM | Show starts at 8:00 PM
Family Movie Matinee
Guild Theater
Join us for a free family movie matinee at the Guild Theater on Sunday, June 1, at 2 PM, featuring Minions: The Rise of Gru. In this hilarious sequel, young Gru teams up with his mischievous Minions as he embarks on an adventure to become the world’s greatest supervillain. Filled with laughter, action, and heart, this film is perfect for the whole family to enjoy. Don’t miss out on this fun-filled afternoon at the Guild Theater!
2025 Juneteenth Block Party at 40 Acres
St. HOPE Academy
Join us on June 14, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM at the historic 40 Acres Complex for a dynamic celebration of freedom, culture, and community.
Enjoy live performances by Lucky Witherspoon, Sol Development, and Digital Underground, along with food trucks, local vendors, and a Black-owned business marketplace.
Experience the Stylistics Car Show, craft beer tasting from Oak Park Brewery, and a fun-filled kids’ play space hosted by St. HOPE Public Schools at Esther’s Park.
Family Movie Matinee
Guild Theater
Join us for a free family movie matinee at the Guild Theater on Sunday, August 3, at 2 PM, featuring Moana 2. In this exciting sequel, Moana returns to the seas on a new adventure, facing fresh challenges and discovering more about her heritage and the power of her people. Filled with stunning visuals, captivating music, and an inspiring story, Moana 2 is a perfect film for audiences of all ages. Bring the whole family for a memorable afternoon at the Guild Theater!
Family Movie Matinee
Guild Theater
Join us at the Guild Theater on Sunday, September 7, at 2 PM for a free family movie matinee featuring Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem. This action-packed animated adventure follows Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael as they step out of the shadows to protect their city from a mysterious crime syndicate. With thrilling battles, humor, and heart, this film is perfect for all ages. Bring the whole family and enjoy an exciting afternoon at the theater!
Family Movie Matinee
Guild Theater
Join us at the Guild Theater on Sunday, October 5, at 2 PM for a free family movie matinee featuring Hocus Pocus 2. The Sanderson sisters are back in this fun and magical sequel, bringing new adventures and mischief to Salem. After being accidentally resurrected, the witches must be stopped before they cast a spell over the town once again. Filled with humor, magic, and Halloween spirit, this film is perfect for the whole family. Do not miss this special afternoon at the theater!
Oak Park Black Film Festival 2025
Guild Theater
Join us from October 7 to October 12, 2025, for an unforgettable celebration of African-American stories and history through the power of cinema. The Oak Park Black Film Festival shines a spotlight on the voices of African-American filmmakers, featuring an inspiring lineup of independent feature films, thought-provoking documentaries, and captivating short films.
Family Movie Matinee
Guild Theater
Join us at the Guild Theater on Sunday, November 2, at 2 PM for a free family movie matinee featuring The Wild Robot. This heartwarming adventure brings Peter Brown’s beloved book to life, following Roz, a robot stranded on a remote island who must learn to survive and connect with the wildlife around her. Filled with breathtaking animation, action, and touching moments, this film is perfect for audiences of all ages. Do not miss this unforgettable story of discovery, friendship, and resilience on the big screen. Bring the whole family for an afternoon of excitement and wonder.
Family Movie Matinee
Guild Theater
Join us at the Guild Theater on Sunday, December 7, at 2 PM for a free family movie matinee featuring The Grinch. Experience the heartwarming and hilarious story of the Grinch as he plots to steal Christmas from the cheerful residents of Whoville. With stunning animation, festive spirit, and a message about the true meaning of the holiday season, this film is perfect for the whole family. Do not miss this fun and magical afternoon at the movies.
St. HOPE Academy Founded by Kevin Johnson
July 1989
St. HOPE began in 1989 as an afterschool program in a portable classroom at Sacramento High School
After 13 years, St. HOPE realized that an after school program simply wasn’t enough to dramatically improve the academic outcomes of children, that it would be necessary to establish and run our own schools.
In 2003, St. HOPE Public Schools was founded as a preK-12 independent charter school district that provides high-quality education to nearly 2,000 students.
St. HOPE Facility Grand Opening
January 1992
7,000 square foot facility opening at 4101 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
40 acres Art & Cultural Center Grand Opening
May 2003
St. HOPE’s largest economic development project opened with Underground Books, Uncle Jed’s Cut Hut, Starbucks and the Guild Theater.
40 Acres is the jewel of the SHDC efforts in the Oak Park community. The building was the historic Woodruff Hotel which was build in 1922 and was renovated by St. HOPE Development company in 2003.
The 23,000 sq. ft. mixed use facility includes:
- Guild Theater
- Underground Books
- Old Soul Coffee House
- Coopers Wine Bar
- Upper Room Apartments
Join Us for the 5th Annual Juneteenth Block Party on Saturday, June 14
Saturday, June 24, 2025
You won’t want to miss St. HOPE’s annual Juneteenth Block Party on Saturday, June 14 from 4-9pm that will take place in and around the 40 Acres Complex in Oak Park (35th Street and Broadway). The free event will have activities for everyone including a kids zone, live music, black-owned vendors, cultural activities and of course amazing food! We have a great event lineup including:
The Legacy of Literacy: Celebrating Mother Rose
President's Message - 04.29.25
This month, we celebrate the birthday of Mother Rose (April 7), a beloved figure whose vision and resilience helped shape Underground Books into the cultural cornerstone it is today. Mother Rose believed in the power of literacy to transform lives. Her mission was never just about selling books, but about creating access—especially for those whose stories have often been overlooked. She filled the shelves of Underground Books with works by Black authors, historical voices, and emerging thinkers, cultivating a space where conversation and connection could thrive.
Sac High Alumni Spotlight: Takayla Johnson, Class of 2018
Takayla Johnson says that St. HOPE Public Schools is an asset in the community. She was able to lean on the schools’ pillars of more time, choice, and commitment which gave her the tools to thrive in college. After she graduated from Sac High in 2018 she spent four years in Sacramento where she became a devoted advocate for youth. For the past four years Takayla has worked with scholars in expanded learning and currently she is working at Sacramento High as a front office assistant
Sac High Scholars Visit Colleges During Spring Break
St. HOPE Academy recently hosted two trips for Sac High seniors to tour colleges to help them make decisions about their higher education options. One trip was to the Bay Area where scholars toured CSU East Bay, CSU Monterey Bay, San Francisco State, and San Jose State. On the Southern California trip, scholars visited UCLA, CSU Bakersfield, CSU Los Angeles, CSU Fullerton, Fresno State, and Long Beach State. A couple of the tours were even hosted by Sac High Alumni who are currently attending these schools.
Black History Month Events Recap: Reflecting on Heritage and Culture
February was an incredible month as we hosted a month-long celebration of the achievements, culture, and contributions of African Americans throughout history. From powerful speakers to engaging events for families, we recognized the achievements and resilience of Black leaders past and present.
St. HOPE Public Schools hosted events nearly every day during February to raise awareness about the importance of inclusion and equity in our multicultural society.
Cassandra Jennings Recognized as One of Comstock Magazine’s 2025 Women in Leadership
We are thrilled that our very own Cassandra Jennings is named one of Comstock Magazine’s 2025 Women Leaders. Cassandra joins nine trailblazers including Jita Pandya Buno, Associate COO of UC Davis Health, Ann Patterson, Governor Newsom’s Cabinet Secretary, and Faye Nabhani, President and CEO of Safe Credit Union, who were all recognized for their perseverance, dedication, and commitment to success. Judy Farrah, editor of Comstock’s Magazine, said determination was the throughline that connected the Women in Leadership Class of 2025.
Honoring the Women Who Lead: Celebrating Their Impact at St. HOPE
President's Message - 03.31.25
As we close out Women’s History Month, I’ve been reflecting on the enormous contributions women leaders make to St. HOPE each and every day, from the female Principals who run Sac High, PS7 Middle School, and PS7 Elementary to the St. HOPE Public Schools Superintendent to the women leaders at St. HOPE Academy to all of the women who sit on our board of directors. You all provide guidance and inspiration daily and demonstrate an unwavering commitment and dedication to our mission. Thank you!
Luxury or thrift? Sacramento High students practice financial literacy
February 20, 2025
About 200 students at Sacramento Charter High got some financial life lessons on Wednesday.
The school’s junior and senior classes participated in an immersive budget workshop as part of a financial literacy event held by Golden 1 Credit Union.
The students, assuming identities with specific professions and incomes, built personal budgets that included necessities such as housing, food, transportation and childcare.
Women in Leadership 2025: Cassandra Jennings
March 5, 2025
Cassandra Jennings
President and CEO, St. HOPE
All through school, Cassandra Jennings was a straight-A student. So when she got her first-ever B — in a college bowling class, of all things — she went to the instructor and argued (unsuccessfully) for a higher grade. More than 40 years later, she says with a laugh, “I’m still mad about it.” Now president and CEO of Sacramento’s St. HOPE, Jennings still has the attitude of the straight-A student she once was. “I’m a get-it-done sort of person,” she says. “I do what I do with a lot of passion, nonapologetically.”
Walking tour highlights Oak Park’s Black history and revitalization
A walking tour led by Dru Burks highlights Oak Park’s Black history, cultural landmarks and ongoing revitalization efforts.
OAK PARK, Calif. —
Oak Park is one of Sacramento’s most historic neighborhoods, and this Black History Month, a special walking tour is bringing its stories to life.
The tour of the 40 Acres Art and Cultural Complex takes participants through the legacy of Oak Park. Leading the tour is Sacramento comedian Dru Burks, who shares the history behind this cultural hub. The hour-long tour kicks off at the historic Guild Theater.
Sacramento community pillar Mother Rose honored with celebration of life: “Our jobs to continue her legacy”
January 23, 2025
SACRAMENTO — Over 1,000 people gathered at St. Paul Church in Sacramento on Thursday for a celebration of life for Georgia Peat West, better known to the community as “Mother Rose.”
Mother Rose died after a battle with cancer last month at age 75.
“She was generous with her time,” said Cassandra Jennings, the CEO of St. Hope, the nonprofit Mother Rose was involved in.
Underground Books owner, mom of Sacramento’s first Black mayor honored at memorial
January 25, 2025
Former Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson said his mother Georgia Rose Peat West likely was saying, “Dang K, you trying to send me home on a rocket ship?” as she looked down on the service celebrating her life on Thursday at Saint Paul Baptist Church.
Gospel luminaries Tramaine Hawkins, BeBecq Winans and Erica Campbell (formerly of Mary Mary) each honored West’s life and comforted her sons Johnson and Ronald West with songs such as “Goin’ Up Yonder” and “Stand.”
Oak Park community celebrates life of Georgia West, known as ‘Mother Rose’
January 23, 2025
The mother of former Mayor Kevin Johnson owned Underground Books and was known for her graciousness and openness.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. —
Georgia West, known as “Mother Rose,” is being remembered for her impact on the Oak Park community.
Scores of people gathered in Sacramento Thursday to celebrate the life of West, who died from cancer at 75.
Georgia ‘Mother Rose’ West Given Her Flowers
January 25, 2025
There were tears, but it was the sharing of heartfelt memories, laughter and rousing renditions of old sweet gospel songs that will keep local bookstore owner Georgia West on attendees’ minds.
More than a thousand people gathered at St. Paul Missionary Baptist church Thursday to pay respect to West, a faithful member, who was known affectionately in the community as Mother Rose. West, 75, died on December 23 after a courageous, mostly silent, 10-year battle with cancer.
Grammy Award Winning Gospel Artists to Perform at Georgia “Mother Rose” West Celebration of Life
Thursday, January 23, 2025
The community is invited to come together for a special Celebration of Life honoring the remarkable legacy of Mother Rose on Thursday, January 23, from 10 AM to 1 PM at St. Paul Baptist Church, located at 3996 14th Avenue.
This heartfelt event promises to be a joyful tribute, featuring performances from three Grammy Award-winning gospel legends:
Memory Book
Share a favorite Memory
If you met Mother Rose, you definitely have a favorite memory or photo(s). We’d love to hear about them!
Click the link below to share a photo or your favorite memory of Mother Rose.
Mother Rose in the News
Local Media Remembers Mother Rose
Please click to learn more about Mother Rose featured in the Sacramento Media:
Recent News
The Sacramento Observer – January 3, 2025
‘Mother Rose’ Georgia West, Mother Of Sacramento’s First Black Mayor, Passes
The Sacramento Bee – December 24, 2024
Mother Rose Legacy Fund
Help to Continue her Passion for Literacy & Community
In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for supporters consider one of the following:
Make a Tax Deductible Donation to St. HOPE Academy (501c3)
Purchase a Book from Mother Rose’s Favorite Reading List
Purchase a Book for the Angel Tree to give the gift of literacy to an Oak Park Youth
Georgia “Mother Rose” West, Matriarch of Sacramento’s Oak Park Neighborhood, Passes Away
Georgia "Mother Rose" West (1949-2024)
With profound sadness we announce the passing of Georgia “Mother Rose” West on December 23, 2024. Mother Rose was a well-known pillar in the Oak Park community helping our region thrive by ensuring cultural diversity. Mother Rose was the owner/operator of Underground Books, part of the 40 Acres Cultural Center at 35th Street and Broadway. Known as the “literary hub of Oak Park”, Underground Books provides programs and learning opportunities for the community and contributes toward ensuring all children have the same access to education and knowledge.
Sac High Alumni Spotlight: Alexandra Gallegos, Class of 2024
Sac High Alumni Spotlight: Alexandra Gallegos, Class of 2024
Alexandra Gallegos attended St. HOPE Public Schools since the sixth grade. She was the 2024 Sac High valedictorian and student body Vice President and is now attending UC Berkeley. She attributes her accomplishments to the rigorous academic program and high standards set by the teachers and administrators at St. HOPE Public Schools.