The IRC has released results of a new survey after interviewing more than 800 Syrian refugee families, uncovering the reasons why refugees are embarking on the perilous journey to Europe.

Since 2020, the IRC in Silver Spring experienced a 500% increase in the number of individuals we serve. The IRC in Silver Spring is committed to help refugees and immigrants rebuild their lives in the United States. We need you, our supporters in the community, to ensure the newest members of our communities thrive.

Volunteer support is an integral part of the IRC's mission to provide opportunities for refugees to thrive in America, and we are excited to partner with you along the way. Take a look through our volunteer opportunities and consider which may be the best match for you.

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. 

In the middle of the night, Ali and his family raced in an ambulance from SeaTac Airport to a team of waiting doctors at Seattle Children’s Hospital. Fleeing the threat of death at the hands of extremists and battling time to save the life of his gravely ill seven-year-old son, Ali had spent the last two and a half years pleading for a chance to leave Iraq, to exchange home for safety. Now, with the support of the Seattle community, Ali and his family begin the journey of rebuilding their lives.

This World Refugee Day, we examine the pressing challenges that refugees face around the world and consider how we can address them.

A record high of 110 million people have fled their homes in search of safety and stability. This is more than any other time since World War II.

Learn more about RAIVS and watch the recordings.

Last month, the IRC in Silver Spring spoke on a panel about organizations serving vulnerable groups in Maryland.