Refugee Career Pathway Program for Afghan Clients in New Jersey

For individuals migrating to or seeking refuge in the United States, obtaining legal status is often the pivotal moment in their resettlement journey, granting them protection from deportation and access to crucial economic opportunities. Unfortunately, in recent years, the path to legal status has become increasingly challenging. With the immigration backlog at an all-time high and refugee and immigrant rights at stake with the upcoming election, many are left feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about their future.

Over six weeks, from June to July, we partnered with over 15 organizations to serve more than 30 students as part of our 2024 Youth Futures Summer Camp. Each week featured exciting field trips, water balloon battles, resume workshops, and college visits.

Earlier this year, the IRC in Atlanta’s Adult Education team added new weekly free English classes in Gwinnett County in partnership with OneStop locations. The classes are held at OneStop Norcross and OneStop Buford and both sites have a beginner and intermediate class. Classes are offered every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 10am-12pm and from 6-8pm.

On August 24, the IRC in Atlanta held a high school graduation ceremony to honor 20 hard-working students in our Connect 2 Success (C2S) program—one of the only programs in the U.S. dedicated exclusively to supporting out-of-school refugee youth ages 16 to 24 to pursue their education and career goals.

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.”

Gail Dujour, an IRC Financial Coach, helps refugees set financial goals and receive loans. “Every person I meet, I want them to learn something, to feel more confident and excited about their future.”

An advocacy brief to mark COP29