Talented, driven, and soon co-enrolled in the IRC’s Connect 2 Success and Career Development programs, Sandrine began working with Carlos McClaney, Youth Career Readiness Coach, in October 2022 and with his support, completed the Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training program at Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC).

Looking for ways to support your community? IRC’s Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program offers free tax preparation services all over the country.

After arriving from Afghanistan as a Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holder in July 2020, Shallah Shaiq began the process of building a new life in the U.S. with her husband and teenage son. Shallah initially earned a bachelor’s degree in law from Afghanistan and carries a passion for working with her Afghan peers through communications. Shallah felt determined to acquire the skills she needed to develop her resume and continue her education in the U.S.  so she could continue to support women’s rights within an Afghan immigrant organization.  

The IRC’s Girls for PEACE group decided Spring Break was the perfect opportunity for a hike. The field trip was an opportunity to build community, see the beautiful state we live in, and provide a reprieve from mid-week Spring Break boredom.

Robert P. DeVecci Emergency Fund established.

The members of St. George's Orthodox Cathedral donated Payless Shoe Source to IRC clients in Wichita.

Since coming on board as a English as a Second Language (ESL) Volunteer in 2016; IRC volunteer, Sheri has gone to great lengths to make the ESL classes a warm and inviting place where IRC clients are comfortable and actively  engage in classroom activities. Sheri works tirelessly to ensure that every detail attended to, always going the extra mile to add improve lesson plans and develop special activities that students have come enjoy.

“When I was in Ethiopia, I couldn’t imagine a future for myself. Then we came here." Each year, the IRC in San Diego awards scholarships like Abdulfatah to refugee youth entering their first year of college or university.

This World Refugee Day–and every day–let’s ensure we fight for refugees, learn from them, and do everything in our power to keep our country’s doors open to those in need of safety and protection. Here are three ways to take action locally in honor World Refugee Day.