Together, we can build

A safe and supportive community

Our Story

Asian Pacific Self-Development And Residential Association (APSARA) was formed in 1989 by a resident group of 35 refugee families who lived in Park Village Apartments (PVA), a deteriorated and unsafe 230-unit apartment complex. The 35 families (7 to 12 members in each family) were experiencing severe economic hardship and trauma after fleeing the Khmer Rouge regime. After losing four children to gun violence and tired of desolate living conditions, APSARA was organized to build a safe community with affordable housing, a safe place for community and youth, self-determination, and economic opportunity, purchasing PVA from HUD for $1 in 1993.

What we do

APSARA is a grassroots membership organization home to the largest concentrated Southeast Asian population in Stockton, and the last remaining affordable housing property collectively owned by Cambodian refugees in the United States. APSARA has been an anchor institution in the Southeast Asian community in Stockton, providing space, organizing infrastructure and leadership for community work ranging from deportation defense to access to healthcare and youth leadership development. APSARA has deep ties in Stockton and the region, and partners with grassroots groups, regional collaboratives, schools, temples and churches, and local government.

All of our services are geared towards the welfare of residents in the San Joaquin county. We provide assistance to children and seniors with food, education, healthcare, safety, job development and other basic needs.

Sovanna Koeurt

Executive Director

Sovanna has served as APSARA Executive Director for more than 20 years. She started as a volunteer before getting appointed the organization’s leadership role in 1994. She is grateful for her long-time involvement with this worthy organization and proud to lead a dedicated team all working together to fulfill its mission and vision.

Sothea Ung

Program Manager

Sothea joined APSARA as a volunteer in October, 2012. Soon after, he came on board full-time as a Social Services Coordinator, prior to subsequent promotion to his current position as Program Manager. He has worked for the community since 1998 and continues to enjoy working with a group of like-minded people.

Kunthea Tuy

Social Services Coordinator

Kunthea is proud of her service to this community for more than 16 years. As Social Services Coordinator, she is happy to help deserving families find assistance in their times of need. She assists residents of Park Village Apartments and surrounding communities, and treats everyone like family, and sees to their care and wellness.

Jolene Keo

Community Outreach Worker

Jolene has been a Community Outreach Worker for more than 15 years. She has a long established relationship with the community, and she is passionate about helping those that are in need of assistance with health education, health insurances, providing referrals to other agencies that can best serve their needs.