Pride month is celebrated every June, in remembrance of the Stonewall Riots, a series of gay liberation protests that took place in New York City in 1969. This commemorative month recognizes the impact that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) people have had locally, nationally, and internationally, while also illuminating some of the key issues persisting for this community, in order to prompt change and work towards safety and inclusion for everyone. 

RYSA, now the Newcomer Youth Summer Academy (NYSA), welcomes dozens of Peer Mentors as key team members each year. Alice, a Peer Mentor for RYSA 2020 - a virtual and unusual year - offers her reflections below. Inspired? Volunteer with NYSA 2021

For more than 20 years, the IRC has been breaking down barriers that prevent gender-based violence survivors from disclosing violence and seeking services. We continue to work in areas that need it the most, which are characterized by insecurity, displacement and weak health systems.

The IRC’s integrated network of support for early childhood programming ensures that babies and young children are receiving appropriate health and nutrition, cared for by nurturing and consistent caregivers in a safe and supportive environment, developing essential cognitive and social and emotional skills, and engaging in play and early learning experiences.

Students were excited to make new friends and join the fun at this summer’s 23rd annual Newcomer Youth Summer Academy (NYSA)! This year's NYSA ran for five weeks from July 11 to August 16.  

The war in Ukraine has affected the lives of millions of people, driving 10 million out of their homes, and creating unprecedented humanitarian needs inside the country. To date, 14.6 million people need urgent humanitarian assistance. The IRC has been present in Ukraine since February 2022, working hand in hand with local partners to provide vital support to conflict-affected people to help them survive, recover and regain control of their future.

The IRC’s enterprise development and employment (EDE) programs prepare crisis-affected populations for employment and self-employment opportunities, support the growth and creation of businesses, improve people’s skills, and increase people’s access to financial services.

More than 224 million school-aged children are affected by crises globally. Find out more.