Kidnapped by traffickers in Honduras at age 14, Suamhirs survived the ordeal only to find himself held captive by U.S. immigration authorities. Now a U.S. citizen working with the IRC, Suamhirs tells his harrowing story—in order, as he says, “to inspire you to help.”

The IRC partners with select corporations in the United States and around the globe to support the world’s most vulnerable people through engagement opportunities including workplace giving, volunteer days, and cause-marketing campaigns

Phoenix and America must, day in and day out, live up to the legacy, and the strength, of our “common immigrant heritage.”

Luis met his wife Ana forty years ago through mutual friends. They quickly fell in love and started a family. Their happy family was soon divided when the effects of the civil war and devastating earthquakes crippled the economy in El Salvador, leading Luis to being laid off from his job and unable to find work. No longer able to provide for his family, he decided to make the long and dangerous journey to the U.S in search of work. 17 years later, his wife and daughter were finally able to join him.