Asian Association of Utah

One of our leaders in our Human Trafficking Support team, Anthony Paco Bernaola, was able to share with hundreds of others gathered in DC this past week to share more about the unseen world of forced labor in the US. Well done, Anthony! https://lnkd.in/gi79ejKS

In collaboration with the Utah Attorney General’s Office, the Asian Association of Utah will be hosting the Utah Trafficking in Persons Conference, which will take place on Thursday, January 23rd from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM at the University of Utah's S.J. Quinney College of Law. This conference will bring together experts, advocates, and community leaders to discuss critical issues surrounding human trafficking, raise awareness, and share actionable solutions. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of the conversation and make a difference in the fight against human trafficking in our community. This event is free and open to the public! Register today at https://lnkd.in/e8MWMUyb

January is National Human Trafficking Awareness Month (HTPM), a presidentially designated observance that raises awareness about human trafficking and empowers the public to take action to prevent and respond to it. Human trafficking, also known as trafficking in persons, includes both forced labor and sex trafficking. It not only represents a threat to international peace and security but also undermines the rule of law, robs millions of their dignity and freedom, enriches transnational criminals and terrorists, and threatens public safety and national security everywhere. AAU has been helping the victims of human trafficking in Utah for over 10 years now and is the primary victim services provider across the state.?Follow along this month to learn more and how you can play a part in raising awareness. #humantrafficking #wearblueday #endtrafficking

If you are a Utah-based employer and are looking to both find good employees and make a difference, this Lunch and Learn will be perfect for you! The AAU Human Trafficking Support team invites you to attend our event January 15th at 12:00 PM, where we will explore the unique benefits of employing survivors of human trafficking. Learn how creating opportunities for these individuals can positively impact your business while contributing to their healing and empowerment. Register at https://lnkd.in/etZEyma6

January is National Human Trafficking Awareness Month (HTPM), a presidentially designated observance that raises awareness about human trafficking and empowers the public to take action to prevent and respond to it. Human trafficking, also known as trafficking in persons, includes both forced labor and sex trafficking. It not only represents a threat to international peace and security but also undermines the rule of law, robs millions of their dignity and freedom, enriches transnational criminals and terrorists, and threatens public safety and national security everywhere. AAU has been helping the victims of human trafficking in Utah for over 10 years now and is the primary victim services provider across the state.?Follow along this month to learn more and how you can play a part in raising awareness. #humantrafficking #wearblueday #endtrafficking

In these final days of 2024 and before we head into the unknown of 2025, we have one last ask to share. This past year, we witnessed both challenges and triumphs: the magnitude of need facing refugees, refugee youth, and victims of crime in our state—and our community rising to meet those challenges head-on. We've been moved by the resiliency of refugee families and human trafficking victims, their commitment to heal from traumatic experiences, and the incredible generosity of partners who give their time, talents, and resources to make our impact possible every day. Whether it's providing a safe space for trafficking survivors, helping refugee youth thrive in school, or supporting families on their journey to self-sufficiency—your contribution makes these moments of transformation possible. Join us in building pathways to a brighter 2025. aau-slc.org/donate

This past year, Utah welcomed over 1,700 refugees who received direct assistance from resettlement organizations. The Asian Association of Utah (AAU) played a critical role in this support network, directly assisting 171 cases encompassing 276 individuals.

We are currently hiring for our Refugee Youth Afterschool program! We're looking for passionate educators to join our mission of empowering refugee youth and transforming lives. What we offer: Full-time positions (32-40 hrs/week) Comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, vision) Paid time off and holidays Valuable hands-on teaching experience Professional development opportunities Since 2012, we've been creating exceptional spaces where refugee and immigrant youth can thrive academically and develop leadership skills. If you're passionate about making a real impact in your community, visit aau-slc.org/career to learn more and apply!

AAU's Behavioral Health team provides?holistic, trauma-informed, culturally responsive mental health therapy services. Our licensed clinicians use evidence based therapeutic approaches tailored to each client's unique needs. Whether we are working to address adjustment disorders, depression, severe chronic illness, or counseling survivors of domestic violence, we strive to provide services that help individuals and families build on their strengths and become integrated members of the community. In the past year, our team has served 480 clients with 3325 individual therapy hours.

As we close out 2024, we want to express our deepest gratitude to our incredible team. Our staff of 60+ dedicated professionals have worked tirelessly this year, serving refugees, refugee youth, and survivors of human trafficking across Utah with unwavering commitment and compassion. Their impact goes far beyond the numbers in our 2024 annual report from last week—it's in the daily moments of connection, the small victories, and the transformed lives we witness every day. From our case managers and youth mentors to our therapists and interpreters, each team member brings their whole heart to this vital work.