The community sponsorship program at the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Salt Lake City launched in March 2022, building a robust foundation that resulted in the first sponsor team connection in November 2022.

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Salt Lake City has dedicated the past two years to helping over 600 Afghan evacuees resettle to Utah after fleeing upheaval in Afghanistan at the end of 2021. The Hilal family is one among the many families who graduated from the IRC programs. Ayazudin and his wife came to the United States with their six kids. They remember packing their life into just four bags and escaping to the U.S. with $100 total in their pockets.

Four refugee first-time voters explain why they are excited to exercise their right this year—and why all eligible American citizens should make their voices heard on the issues that matter to them.

At the IRC, we are doing more than just imagining a different future for women and girls affected by conflict and crisis. We’re focusing our resources and capabilities to help break down each of the barriers they face.

The steps to contain COVID-19 should be designed locally, particularly in crisis settings, to avoid exacerbating humanitarian suffering. Read IRC recommendations.