Nah We Yone – a grassroots community‐based organization in New York City: successes, challenges, and lessons learned

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss the development of a unique, grassroots, community‐based organization, Nah We Yone (NWY), designed specifically to provide support to African refugees and asylum seekers, with a history of refugee trauma, war, and human rights abuses, who have fled to the New York City area.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews the background to, the challenges faced and the services available at NWY.

Findings

Described in this paper are the rationale for developing this type of organization; specific programs designed to promote well‐being; and various challenges faced and lessons learned, while offering an alternate type of therapeutic intervention.

Practical implications

NWY demonstrates the importance of drawing on cultural and community strengths and resilience when using limited resources to serve traumatized and displaced peoples who are struggling to adjust to a new cultural setting.

Originality/value

This paper seeks to contribute to the literature on culturally informed therapeutic interventions developed by community‐based organizations to enhance well being in forced migrants.

Citation

Akinsulure‐Smith, A.M. and Jones, W.L. (2011), "Nah We Yone – a grassroots community‐based organization in New York City: successes, challenges, and lessons learned", International Journal of Migration, Health and Social Care, Vol. 7 No. 1, pp. 44-57. https://doi.org/10.1108/17479891111176296