Mandy Patinkin, IRC Ambassador, talked with Syrian refugee and new U.S. citizen Shadi Ismail on Instagram Live about why voting matters and the refugee resettlement experience in the U.S. This year, Shadi voted for the first time as an American citizen, casting his ballot in the 2020 presidential election.

Dr. Edna Patricia Gomez is a gynecologist who works for the International Rescue Committee in Cúcuta, Colombia. She left Venezuela in 2018 with her family as the country spiraled into a profound socio-economic crisis. Today, Dr. Edna helps other Venezuelans in Colombia with screening and treatment for the coronavirus, while also providing women's health services. "Medicine is the best," she says of her profession. "It’s hopeful.

Actress and acitivist Piper Perabo recently visited the Greek island of Lesbos where the International Rescue Committee is providing critical aid for up to 4,000 refugees fleeing from war-torn countries like Syria and Afghanistan. Many have been on the road for 20-30 days, hoping for safety and to live in peace. Read Piper's reflections from Greece.