The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is dedicated to helping refugees obtain self-sufficiency within their first eight months of arrival in the U.S. Despite the current state of the economy, Employment Specialists at the IRC have successfully placed over 190 refugees in various positions throughout the past year. However, the adverse economic climate has forced them to invent creative employment solutions for refugees. “We have been pushing through a back-log from the past year,” stated Lana Whiteford, Employment Specialist at the IRC. Ups and downs in the job market have had significant consequences for refugee job placements. “This year has definitely been rough, but we were still able to increase our numbers from last year. It was a huge accomplishment given the circumstances.”
Employment is an essential part of the integration process. The job search process can be stressful for refugees, especially since their financial assistance is short-lived. Job placements are a critical source of support for many and give refugees the confidence and financial capacity they need to begin rebuilding their lives in America.
Once refugees find employment, they are eager to learn and excel. Their outstanding work ethic and high retention rates garner high praise from employers. Recently, two Burmese refugees were awarded the Employee of the Month Award at Ross Dress for Less. The IRC congratulates them for their success.
The IRC in Boise is thankful to the employers who have shown confidence in refugees by affording them the opportunity to start their lives over. We welcome employment leads from community members, and our Employment Specialists are always at hand to follow up. If you would like to hire a refugee or know of someone who would like to hire a refugee, please contact the IRC in Boise- (208) 344-1792.
