History
The work of Promise South Salt Lake began in 2008 in response to the murder of a young girl, Hser Ner Moo, in a housing complex that served a large resettlement of refugee families. This tragic event rallied the community to advocate for safe places for youth to be afterschool and push for additional community programs and services. Led by Mayor Cherie Wood and assisted through partnerships with the South Salt Lake Police Department, United Way of Salt Lake, Granite School District, and the city’s Recreation Department, they launched an afterschool program and community center, named after Hser Ner Moo.
Hser Ner Moo
7 years old
Burmese Refugee
When Mayor Wood took office in 2009 she wanted to work to keep the promises she made on the campaign trail and created the Promise South Salt Lake Initiative under her office. She said, “What I want for myself and my family, I want for everyone in South Salt Lake.” Thus, the 3 Promises which represent the highest hope for our community came to be.
As the work continued to grow and the community started seeing outcomes, it became apparent that this was something that should be institutionalized so it could meet the needs of the community. Promise South Salt Lake became an official City department in 2012 and became an official non-profit in 2025 allowing for more opportunities.
Pomise South Salt Lake has grown to become a holistic, city-wide initiative that provides free youth, family, and adult services in local schools and community centers and is committed to giving everyone the opportunity to succeed. Home to just over 26,000 residents, South Salt Lake is one of the most economically and socially diverse communities in the state. With city limits spanning from 2100 South to 3900 South, in just seven square miles, there are over 50 languages spoken. Over the years, Promise South Salt Lake has served thousands and created a nationally recognized Cradle to Career infrastructure that celebrates diversity and addresses the needs of all residents, regardless of their circumstances. With rising costs of basic needs like housing, food, and childcare, these free programs offer crucial support for working families and community members.
The City of South Salt Lake, under the visionary leadership of Mayor Cherie Wood, has become a community that models what can be achieved when we invest in our youth and families.