IRC offices across the nation have offered New Roots programs for many years, providing opportunities for refugees to participate in sustainable agricultural practices and receive nutrition education. Yet in the heart of California’s Central Valley—the agricultural hub of the state—no such program had existed. That all changed May 8, as four Afghan families helped launch a new sustainable agriculture program for the IRC in Turlock/Modesto. Participants gathered at Turlock Community Gardens to plant crops typically grown in their home country such as okra, muskmelons and Persian cucumbers as well as fruits and vegetables more commonly grown such as tomatoes, strawberries and bell peppers.

Youth FarmWorks, a job training urban farm, provides refugee, immigrant, and at-risk youth from City Heights with job readiness skills and offers the community fresh local produce.

This community partner spotlight features Cathy Burds, CEO of Colographic, who faced hiring challenges and turned to the IRC in Denver, hiring her first refugee employee, Marcos. Overcoming language barriers, she ensured his certification and integration. Cathy’s efforts inspired industry changes and increased awareness of refugee hiring practices in Colorado, demonstrating the power of collective efforts and inclusivity.

We are grateful to partner with our friends at Bouncin Bins Utah and for their generosity in making refugees welcome here in Utah! This summer farmers market season, Bouncin Bins donated their inflatable games to our New Roots Sunnyvale Farmers' market!

Olive Cicon may only be 9 years old, but the Tracy resident already has amassed a team of volunteers to assist refugees and other special immigrants as part of her "passion project"--and she's giving $5 of her own money to kick off her campaign. The following interview between Olive and her mother, Nettie Cicon, details how Olive plans to assist beneficiaries from the International Rescue Committee in Turlock/Modesto, and how others can help: