This year, we were delighted to extend the camp experience to middle school students and provide eight weeks of mentorship, tutoring, fun activities, and opportunities for personal growth—with an incredible class size of 63 students, we are proud to share this was our largest summer camp to date!

November 25th marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and kicks off the campaign 16 Days of Activism against Gender Based Violence. IRC-LA staff member and Gender Equality champion, Carly Boos, shares what it means to be a part of an organization committed to ending gender-based violence 365 days out of the year.

The International Rescue Committee in New York and New Jersey, St Urban Concerts, and renown Syrian clarinetist and composer Kinan Azmeh are pleased to announce a partnership to support the Refugee Youth Summer Academy in Elizabeth, New Jersey. This summer program provides a supportive and healing environment that helps refugee children overcome the trauma of forced migration. Through educational, recreational, and social activities, students improve their English language skills and their confidence, enabling them to assimilate in their new communities and become engaged citizens. St Urban and Kinan Azmeh will donate 50% of the sales of the album Songs For Days To Come, Vol. 1 to help 70 refugee youth participate in the summer academy. 

On June 20, our community gathered at Play Faire Park for a memorable World Refugee Day celebration. The event featured an interactive mural, a mini golf fundraiser, and activities for all ages, showcasing the resilience and creativity of refugees. The mural, symbolizing hope and solidarity, will be displayed at the ArtWalk on July 11, 2024, at the Center for Contemporary Arts. The mini golf fundraiser highlighted refugee experiences while raising vital funds to support our programs. Thank you, Abilene, for your incredible support and making this day special! Together, we create a welcoming community for all.

A catastrophic locust outbreak is coursing through East Africa, threatening starvation for millions of people. The IRC is actively responding with our humanitarian partners in local communities. 

This past semester, ten high school students from four different countries were selected to represent their peers on the first IRC CONNECT Leadership Council. The IRC CONNECT Leadership Council was created to offer recently resettled students a formal opportunity to develop their leadership skills,explore civic engagement and build confidence in their ability to create change in our communities.Over the past couple of months, students have participated in a variety of activities including the SUMMIT Leadership Course at George Washington University and workshops focusing on public speaking, critical thinking, and debate skills.

Through the Schwemm Family Foundation's support, IRC has implemented a range of activities aimed at promoting nutrition, education, and sustainable food practices for refugee and immigrant communities in San Diego.

As economic recovery activities for refugees in Jordan are restricted, the IRC has found that the provision of unconditional cash assistance coupled with case management, health services, psychosocial support, and outreach is a valuable means of reducing this distress.

The IRC in Dallas offers corporate engagement opportunities throughout the year. These activities range from work days at a community garden to a career day hosted at your office. Gather your team and co-workers, and get involved!