This October, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Bay Area hosted our quarterly series of virtual briefings highlighting our work to help refugees and immigrants build economic stability and achieve financial independence across the East Bay and Silicon Valley.

During these briefings, our local teams shared how the IRC's Economic Empowerment programs are helping individuals find meaningful employment, develop professional skills, advance their careers, and pursue entrepreneurship. We also highlighted the impact of our programs, the challenges refugees and immigrants face in accessing economic opportunities, and the importance of community partnerships in helping individuals and families thrive.

Couldn't join us live? You can now watch the recordings!

We invite you to explore the briefings below to learn more about our work, the communities we serve, and how you can help create pathways to economic opportunity.

Watch the Recordings

IRC Oakland | October 6, 2026

Learn how the IRC in Oakland is helping refugees and immigrants across the East Bay build financial independence through employment services, career development, and entrepreneurship opportunities. Hear about the importance of removing barriers to economic mobility and helping individuals gain the skills, resources, and support needed to achieve their professional and financial goals.

Watch the Oakland Virtual Briefing 

IRC San Jose | October 7, 2026

Discover how the IRC in San Jose is helping refugees and immigrants build meaningful careers and achieve long-term economic stability in Silicon Valley. This briefing highlights our Economic Empowerment programs, including job search assistance, vocational training, career development, financial education, and digital literacy. Learn how these services work together to help individuals overcome barriers to employment, strengthen their financial well-being, and create brighter futures for themselves and their families.

Watch the San Jose Virtual Briefing

Building Stronger Communities Through Economic Opportunity

For refugees and immigrants rebuilding their lives, access to meaningful employment and economic opportunities is essential to achieving long-term stability. Yet many face barriers, including language differences, limited professional networks, challenges transferring international credentials, and difficulty accessing financial resources.

Through individualized support, practical training, and partnerships with local employers and community organizations, the IRC helps individuals navigate these challenges and take meaningful steps toward economic independence.

Whether it's securing a first job in the United States, advancing into a new career, or starting a small business, our programs help individuals build on their existing skills, experiences, and aspirations.

Thank You for Supporting Our Communities

Whether you attended a briefing or are watching for the first time, thank you for your interest in the IRC's work.

Our ability to provide these critical services depends on the generosity and engagement of donors, volunteers, employers, and community partners who believe in creating opportunities for refugees and immigrants.

We hope these recordings provide a meaningful look at the impact of our work and inspire you to stay connected.

Together, we can help refugees and immigrants build financially secure, thriving futures across the East Bay and Silicon Valley. 

To help support refugees and immigrants in our communities, please consider making a donation to the IRC Oakland or IRC San Jose office.