Announcement
Thank You, Tara Winter — A Leader Through Transformation and Transition
After more than three years of dedicated leadership, we extend our deepest gratitude to Tara Winter, who will be stepping down as Executive Director of the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Northern California at the end of May 2025.
Tara joined the IRC in 2022 during a time of extraordinary complexity. She led our offices through the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the national effort to welcome Afghan evacuees, and the emergency response to the war in Ukraine. Through it all, she guided our region with steadiness and heart—ensuring IRC NorCal remained a pillar of support, hope, and practical assistance for thousands of families.
Under Tara’s leadership, our offices in Oakland, Sacramento, San Jose, and Turlock expanded services, deepened partnerships, and centered staff and client wellbeing in every decision.
Some highlights of her tenure include:
- Navigating the ongoing effects of COVID-19, while adapting to hybrid service models and ensuring safety for staff and clients for a safe-return to office.
- Scaling housing, legal, and casework services for thousands of Afghan evacuees during the continued Afghan Placement & Assistance (APA) response
- Coordinating the region’s emergency response to the Ukrainian war, helping hundreds of newly arrived families access housing, legal, and case management services
- Expanding innovative programs focused on housing stability, food access, financial literacy, and immigration legal services
- Strengthening partnerships with local governments, school districts, and community-based organizations across the region
- Guiding our offices through the 2024 presidential election and inauguration, ensuring continuity of services and maintaining a safe, welcoming environment amid uncertainty
- Championing a culture of equity, wellness, and collaboration—prioritizing staff care and cross-office alignment across all four NorCal sites
Tara’s legacy lives on in the communities we serve and in the strength of the team she helped grow and lead.
As Tara transitions from this role, the IRC in Northern California continues with strong, experienced leadership. Our Regional Director, Site Directors, and Development team are united in their commitment to advancing the IRC’s mission, responding to emerging needs, and building more just and inclusive communities where refugees and immigrants can thrive.
Please join us in celebrating Tara’s remarkable impact—and in supporting the next chapter of IRC NorCal’s journey.
With gratitude,
The IRC in Northern California Team