In 2025, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) supported 29 communities across the United States through programs aimed at strengthening the economy, assisting vulnerable populations, and ensuring humanitarian protections are upheld. Working closely with local partners, employers, schools, and community members, the IRC combines immediate support with long-term solutions to help families affected by crises rebuild their lives with stability and dignity.
A key focus of the IRC is strengthening local economies through workforce integration. Many newcomers to the U.S. face barriers to entering the labor market, and the IRC helps clients secure employment while meeting community needs. In 2025, over 38,000 people participated in IRC workforce programs, with more than 5,500 job placements facilitated through partnerships with over 2,600 employers. Programs include job readiness training, sector-specific career pathways, workplace English instruction, and financial support through the Center for Economic Opportunity, helping individuals gain skills, access modest loans, and build economic resilience.
The IRC also connects communities through protection and integration services for survivors of gender-based violence, human trafficking, torture, family separation, and other forms of harm. In 2026, protection and integration services are projected to reach over 12,000 people in the U.S., with plans to expand digital services to serve more than 200,000 annually. The IRC provides multilingual information services, virtual navigation for urgent needs, and case management for people facing high-risk challenges, ensuring rapid access to support and strengthening community integration.
Legal services and rights protection are another cornerstone of the IRC’s work. In 2025, the IRC assisted more than 16,000 people with legal support, including family reunification petitions, citizenship applications, asylum filings, and education on legal rights. Special attention is given to unaccompanied children navigating the U.S. immigration system, providing representation and therapeutic support to ensure their voices are heard and that they access the protections they are entitled to. The IRC also assists refugees, asylees, Afghan Special Immigrant Visa holders, and other humanitarian immigrants in understanding and navigating complex legal processes.
By partnering with local communities, volunteers, and organizations, the IRC ensures its programs are accessible, culturally relevant, and responsive to local needs. Being embedded in neighborhoods allows the IRC to meet people where they are while fostering welcoming and resilient communities. Across the U.S., the IRC continues to serve as a vital resource for individuals and families affected by crises, combining humanitarian support with long-term pathways to stability and opportunity.
