What We Do
Our community is a unique intersection of two groups: Asian Americans in Utah--representing our heritage community--and marginalized refugees, refugee youth, and human trafficking victims--representing the community we serve.
We engage, equip, and empower victims of human trafficking, refugees, and refugee youth to improve, become self-sufficient, and thrive. Our work is trauma-informed and linguistically sensitive, delivered by specialized staff who journey with each individual and family as they transition to life in Utah.
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We are the primary human trafficking victim services provider in Utah. We provide full wraparound services to help victims go from Survive to Thrive.
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Refugee ServicesWe help refugees and refugee youth go from Arrive to Thrive. For over 45 years, we have been a consistent, local resource for New Americans in Salt Lake City, Utah.
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Almost all refugees arrive with significant trauma. Our trauma-informed and culturally relevant therapy is available for refugees, domestic violence and human trafficking victims.
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Latest News and Updates
A client came to AAU while experiencing homelessness after being released from immigration detention. For a period, he lived under a bridge, facing extreme challenges in accessing food, safety, and basic necessities. The trauma of detention, combined with the instability of homelessness, created significant barriers to rebuilding his life and achieving independence.
When a young woman from South America arrived at AAU, she was struggling to overcome significant trauma and exploitation. Through integrated support with trauma-informed therapy, comprehensive case management, and consistent mentorship, she embarked on a healing journey.
When [Allie] first met her mentor, she was very shy and reserved. She rarely connected with peers, and her parents were concerned that she was isolating herself. Since joining our Human Trafficking Support Youth Mentoring program, Allie has "come out of her shell".
When an Afghan Special Immigrant Visa holder arrived in Utah in July 2024 with his wife and six children, all under eighteen, their path to stability seemed uncertain. Today, this family embodies resilience and determination with support from AAU's Refugee Services.
