At 14, Leo was out of school, struggling with trauma, and facing legal and family challenges until the IRC provided education support, therapy, and essential resources. With their help, he and his family gained stability, and today Leo is thriving in school and rebuilding his confidence and hope for the future.

In honor of Constitution and Citizenship Day (Sep 17) our incredible friends at Citizenship Giveback came out to the IRC in Atlanta office to present their first donation of book proceeds—an incredible $1,000—to support the IRC in Atlanta’s Adult Education programs. 

In 2018, less than 3 percent of refugees went home. The vast majority struggle to get by in countries unable to meet their needs. Most relief efforts are focused on food, shelter and basic health care—but refugees also require education and livelihoods opportunities if they are to rebuild their lives. The IRC strives for “better aid” that delivers assistance more effectively, efficiently and sustainably.

A poster with suggested activities to make a culturally responsive classroom.

The IRC conducted a multi-sector needs assessment in 2024, covering the sectors of Protection, Health, Education and Economic Wellbeing, to identify key needs to support humanitarian program design in the coming period. Findings show that humanitarian needs are at an all time high, particularly impacted by shifts in the context in 2023, including the earthquake in Turkiye and the highest levels of violence seen across northern Syria since 2020. Millions of individuals continue to be unable to meet their basic needs.

1 in 10 eligible voters are new Americans! The IRC is here to support with voter education to support naturalized citizens and eligible voters. If you are not eligible to vote, do not register to vote as it will have consequences on your immigration status. If you are not yet a U.S. citizen, contact the IRC's immigration services by calling or texting (408) 472-3675.

On February 23, more than a dozen speakers testified before the Georgia House Higher Education Committee in favor of House Bill 932, a bill which would extend in-state tuition at Georgia public colleges and universities to refugees immediately upon resettlement, as opposed to the current one-year wait period. The bill would also apply to individuals who risked their lives to support the U.S. military overseas, including our Afghan allies who were evacuated last summer.

H.O.M.E. Program: Housing Outreach Mentorship Education

For children to succeed academically and thrive in their schools, parent engagement is critical. Although parent access within schools may be limited for refugee parents at times, they work to make connections with teachers and support their children’s education.