While social capital in Australia as in North America seems to have lost value, much of the refugee population comes from places where there is still a strong sense of community. This seminar will examine and share stories of refugee communities using their social capital to support one another. Jim Diers will illustrate how people are using diverse aspects of their culture to reinforce the sense of community and strengthen social capital. Ways in which agencies intent on helping communities can potentially contribute to their breakdown will also be discussed. Principles and tools that agencies can use to help sustain and strengthen community capacity will be suggested.