When Aman* arrived in the U.S. in 2024, he brought with him valuable experiences as an IT technician and accountant. 

Like many newcomers, he faced challenges navigating a new economic and academic context. Determined to invest in his new home, Aman connected with the IRC in Silver Spring and enrolled in the employment program, which assists newcomers to build the skills and connections needed to succeed in the workforce.

In 2024 alone, the IRC in Silver Spring supported 356 individuals in securing employment across more than 20 industries. With an average wage of over $16 per hour and a 77% job retention rate, the IRC’s employment services are the foundation that ensures newcomers achieve financial independence. The IRC in Silver Spring’s economic empowerment program provides clients with job readiness training, individualized support and direct connections to local employers, providing clients the tools needed to take their first steps toward employment. 

Within a month of enrolling in the program, Aman attended job readiness training, received a refurbished laptop to support his job search and began applying to positions with the guidance of his employment specialist. His dedication paid off: within three months, Aman landed his first part-time role at a local movie theater. Not long after, he secured a second job with REI Co-op. 

While balancing two positions is no small feat, Aman took these important steps toward achieving self-sufficiency in his new home. Aman then set his sights on higher education. He is now pursuing an associate’s degree at Montgomery College in business and plans to continue on to a bachelor’s program as a pathway to building a stable and fulfilling career.

Reflecting on his journey, Aman shares:

IRC gave me all the mentorship I needed to apply for college and understand the education system here in the U.S.

Aman’s story is a testament to what’s possible when personal resilience meets community support— and a reminder of the lasting impact of programs like the ones at IRC have in helping individuals rebuild and thrive. 

In 2023, immigrants in Maryland paid $15.8 billion in taxes and represented nearly $39.5 billion in spending power, according to the American Immigration Council. 

Successes like that of Aman’s reflect a broader success story—one in which newcomers not only rebuild their lives in the U.S., but also enrich the social and economic fabric of their new homes. 

*Aman’s name has been changed to protect his identity.