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.