Originally from Burundi, Vital was one of thousands of Burundians forced to flee in 1972. At 19 years old, he lived in a temporary center that hosted refugees in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, formerly known as Zaire. He spent ten years in the DRC and continued his education despite the challenging circumstances.

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Los Angeles is working alongside communities and partners to support Afghans living in Southern California and ensure a warm welcome for those families soon to arrive in the coming weeks and months. Here are four ways you can help.

In March of 2021, approximately 19,000 unaccompanied children attempted to enter the United States through the border with Mexico. For a small percentage of these children, Florida communities are their new home, where they still face challenges. Many of these children have endured traumatic experiences, and many of them find themselves in a state of limbo as cases clog up a fragile and unprepared immigration system, exacerbating their isolation. 

The IRC in Richmond staff is working remotely, while remaining in regular contact with our clients.

The IRC in NY chatted with one client who is a mother figure for her younger sister. They both left Afghanistan in early fall with the hope to be safe. Their mother had passed away and they left behind their family members. The older sister made it a priority to concentrate on what she could change.

Information about Taste of the IRC 2023 | San Diego Fundraiser

Within a year of arriving in Salt Lake City, Abdul Bari noticed a need in his school and took action: he started a robotics club focused on inclusion, where 90% of club members come from a refugee or immigrant background.

Civic engagement and voter registration education is a strategic priority of the IRC in Salt Lake City. Helping refugees and new Americans to gain, maintain, and expand their voice within the community is central to the IRC’s global Strategy100. Hear from some of our staff about what is new with civic engagement and advocacy.

The Wichita Community is invited to attend one of the IRC's upcoming Brown-bag lunches. These events are free and open to the public, but RSVP is required to attend.