The IRC supports Omaira with training to prevent and respond to gender-based violence. IRC community advocates like Omaira learn how to listen to survivors, how to maintain confidentiality, and how to emotionally take care of themselves and protect themselves from the effects of second-hand trauma.

She shared, “I dream of seeing my daughters graduate… Graduate and [be] empowered. Represent themselves well. And that the legacy I leave behind for them is useful so that… they never have to go through what I went through… I think that would be the biggest achievement... And, that they can study... I want them to be empowered, take advantage, and devour the world!”

What are some ways you can support displaced women like Omaira and advocate for the rights of women and girls?

  • Omaira promoting the prevention and response to gender-based violence in her community in Cucuta, near the border with Venezuela.

    Challenge traditional gender roles and sterotypes

    ×
    Omaira promoting the prevention and response to gender-based violence in her community in Cucuta, near the border with Venezuela.

    Challenge traditional gender roles and sterotypes

    I can challenge traditional gender roles and stereotypes in everyday conversations with my friends and family. I can share real-life examples like Omaira’s, and highlight her bravery, resilience, and leadership to demonstrate the positive impact women like her have on our society.

    Learn more about challenging traditional narratives

  • Omaira and two other IRC volunteers smiling for a photo outside of a volunteer site.

    Show solidarity with women like Omaira

    ×
    Omaira and two other IRC volunteers smiling for a photo outside of a volunteer site.

    Show solidarity with women like Omaira

    I can show solidarity with women like Omaira and support the IRC’s women’s empowerment programming by becoming a vocal advocate for women’s issues in my own community, and organizing conversations that amplify women’s voices.

    Learn more about showing solidarity with women

Ways you can support the people served by the IRC today

Refugees are parents, business owners, activists, and so much more. They enrich our communities and cultures around the world. Let’s show our new neighbors they are welcome in our communities.

There are countless, everyday ways we can support refugees to recover and thrive. The ideas proposed in this activity are just a handful of possibilities.

Have other ideas for ways to support refugees in your community? Share them with us!

We invite individuals and organizations to partner with us to address today’s skyrocketing global needs for humanitarian assistance. Your support can help the IRC reach and serve people affected by conflict and disaster worldwide.

Donate

An immediate donation through your workplace giving platform or Rescue.org can help support families caught in humanitarian crises. By choosing to give monthly, your gift can be put to work throughout the year to help people rebuild their lives in more than 40 crisis-affected countries as well as the UK and U.S.

Host a Fundraiser

Set up a campaign for the IRC on Tiltify or another crowdfunding site and share with your network.

Stay Informed

Get the latest news, photos and videos shedding light on the world's worst humanitarian crises and how the IRC is helping people survive, recover and rebuild their lives.

Matching Gifts

Double the impact of your gift by requesting a matching gift from your employer through our website or your workplace giving platform.

Amplify

Demonstrate your commitment to standing in solidarity with refugees and other displaced communities by amplifying the IRC's voice on social media. Follow us and engage with our content on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, TikTok, and LinkedIn.

Advocate

Join the thousands of U.S.-based IRC supporters who have mobilized to advocate for change nationally and in their communities.

Volunteer

Volunteers play a critical role in helping refugees and immigrants thrive in the U.S. In addition to opportunities coordinated through your employer, explore the current opportunities for individuals and apply today.