Since the 1970s, millions of Afghans have fled to Pakistan to escape ongoing violence and natural disaster. They’ve found safety, built families and restarted their lives. However, many are now being forced to return to an unstable country that is unable to support them.

Interested in volunteering, but short on time? Short-term, high-impact service projects are a great way to welcome and support refugees who are new to our community! Team up with a group of friends, family, classmates, coworkers or other IRC volunteers for any of the activities below.

Thank you Medical Teams International for providing free dental services for participants in the IRC's anti-trafficking program! Learn more about the Washington Anti-Trafficking Response Network (WARN) and opportunities to support survivors.

Private donations contribute greatly to the success of the IRC's work. Although we receive state and federal funding for initial resettlement and employment services, the assistance we provide to refugee families beyond their first few months in the U.S. would not be possible without community support.

Private donations contribute greatly to the success of the IRC's work. Although we receive state and federal funding for initial resettlement and employment services, the assistance we provide to refugee families beyond their first few months in the U.S. would not be possible without community support.

Private donations contribute greatly to the success of the IRC's work. Although we receive state and federal funding for initial resettlement and employment services, the assistance we provide to refugee families beyond their first few months in the U.S. would not be possible without community support.

Private donations contribute greatly to the success of the IRC's work. Although we receive state and federal funding for initial resettlement and employment services, the assistance we provide to refugee families beyond their first few months in the U.S. would not be possible without community support.

With the IRC’s support, Nour, a Syrian refugee living in Jordan, was able to envision her future as a lawyer. Photographer Meredith Hutchison shares her story.

Rabia Afghan and her family arrived in the United States in April 2022 as part of “Operation Allies Welcome,” fleeing the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan. Initially welcomed by IRC staff member Bill Tuffin in Virginia, their paths crossed again in January 2023 when Bill, now an Employment Specialist at the IRC in Denver, was tasked with helping Rabia find employment. Despite language barriers and the challenges of resettlement, Rabia secured a job at a local hotel and, through determination and support from the IRC, was promoted within two years. Her story highlights the critical role of community support in helping refugees rebuild their lives and the ongoing challenges they face in their new homes.

Sami Roe, small business specialist at the IRC in Salt Lake City, works with Laan Na Thai to make sure they stay in business during the coronavirus pandemic. He offers a few tips for the community on how to support small, immigrant-owned businesses during the pandemic.