The Violence, Prevention and Response (VPR) unit implements programming that prevents violence against women, children, especially girls, and other vulnerable groups, and responds to it when it does occur.

Meet four Black business owners who have navigated the American economic landscape to build their businesses.

From relentless bombings on hospitals, schools and homes to the hundreds of thousands recently uprooted in Idlib, Syria is struggling with the worst humanitarian catastrophe since the war began nine years ago.

Lauren Lehman speaks about her experience volunteering with the IRC as a logistics intern this summer, and about the great responsibility and privilege she feels in setting up apartments for newly arriving refugees and ensuring that they feel safe and welcome in their new homes.

In the coming weeks, we anticipate welcoming our 30,000th refugee arrival—a testament to Georgia's commitment to fostering a beloved community that reflects—and celebrates—our common humanity, inspired by Dr. King’s vision. This milestone is not just a number but a symbol of hope and resilience for those seeking refuge from conflict and persecution.

Launched by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) in 2021, the Community Navigator Pilot Program (CNPP) is an innovative approach to serving historically disadvantaged small business owners who were disproportionately impacted by the economic shocks and hardship of the COVID-19 pandemic. The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has been serving immigrant, newcomer, refugee, and mainstream community small business owners in communities since 1999 and was proud to join the SBA as a national partner in implementing CNPP.

The IRC in Salt Lake City is currently running a series, “Refugee Resettlement”, describing our efforts to resettle and serve refugee individuals and families who now call the Beehive State “home.” Part two focuses on efforts to reach self-sufficiency and positively integrate into Salt Lake County.

In honor of this past month being designated Social Work Month by the National Association of Social Workers, we are proud to feature Shakira Gibson, a Master of Social Work intern from California State University Stanislaus. Shakira has been assisting the IRC in Turlock/Modesto since September with its Afghan Path Towards Wellness program, which focuses on the mental and physical well-being of Afghan women who have come to the United States as refugees or other special immigrants. (Interview by Perry Fishel)