The nationally recognized Natural Helpers program was brought to Aurora by the Office of International and Immigrant Affairs in 2016 in response to the city’s Comprehensive Strategic Plan to expand programs for integration of refugees and immigrants. The program’s goal is to identify, train and empower local immigrants and refugees who understand the challenges of moving to a different place, learning a new language and establishing a home in the U.S. They are then able to connect immigrants and refugees in their own communities with resources and opportunities to better integrate into the city.
Natural Helpers is administered jointly by the city and the Village Exchange Center, a nonprofit organization at 1609 Havana St. dedicated to serving immigrants and refugees in the Aurora/Denver area through a community center, multi-faith worship space, co-located programs, informational services and cultural activities.