Speaking the same language is not a prerequisite for friendship for Joanne, a dedicated family mentor volunteer, who continues to build supportive relationships with newly arrived refugee families.

Arts programming can be transformative for youth. It helps youth build the tools for self-expression and form a sense of belonging.

In May 2023, Victoria Barrier Solutions LLC—a residential and commercial fencing and railing business—was born. “We create fencing and railing from all kinds of materials including wood, vinyl, and aluminum. We also build decks for homes.”

When Khatima first approached the IRC in Utah’s financial capabilities team, she was unfamiliar with credit-building loans and their potential long-term benefits to settling into life in the U.S. A year later, she’s worked diligently to increase her credit score and improve her financial self-sufficiency.

Parwana, Afghan parolee and mother of two, is no stranger to overcoming adversity. When her family fled to the U.S. after the Taliban took control of Kabul, she was prepared to face many challenges as they built a new life for themselves in Maryland. “My only goal was for my kids to go to school, my husband to get a job, and I hoped one day I would learn English.”

In partnership with Dallas CASA, 16 high school girls resettled in Dallas experienced the magic of prepping for prom season.

The IRC in Seattle's citizenship classes support immigrants of all backgrounds as they prepare to take the naturalization test to become a United States citizen. Students in the class study for the test - but also learn about US history, how they can participate in their local government, and the power of civic engagement!

On Aug 4, 1940, a young editor named Varian Fry boarded a transatlantic flight from LaGuardia Airport in New York on his way to German-occupied France to lead a daring rescue operation.