By Savannah Paolillo | Donor Services
In 2024, policies around refugees, migrants, and asylum seekers are being debated all over the world—often without the input of the people it impacts the most. These policies hold significant power and affect one’s ability to resettle. More than ever, it's time to welcome refugees and rethink what it looks like for them to fully belong. The IRC in New York & New Jersey has proven practical examples of solutions to help refugees, asylum-seekers, and migrants resettle. This World Refugee Day*, it is essential to look past the large figures to realize that every number has a story. Remember that 120 million displaced people means 120 million birthdays, nicknames, and life stories.
The IRC in NY & NJ helps refugees—each with a unique story of their own—to survive, recover, and rebuild their lives. By connecting on a personal level, we can recognize ourselves and our loved ones in these New York & New Jersey stories:
Gustavo migrated to the U.S. from El Salvador in February 2023 as a refugee and has been working with the IRC in NJ. Upon receiving his work permit, Gustavo attended job fairs, which landed him an offer on the spot! In 2024, he is working with our Career Development Specialists to enroll in an Auto mechanic certification program to expand his professional horizons. Gustavo is considering purchasing a car to alleviate some of the challenges he faces with public transportation.
Serhii, a humanitarian parolee from Kiev, Ukraine, with his daughter, Mahdelena, fled their homeland due to the war that erupted in February 2022. Enrolling in the IRC in NY USARA Early Employment program, he was determined to take an intensive three-month culinary training program and English classes. Serhii secured a prestigious position at a fine-dining Italian restaurant in Manhattan. He shares: “I consider myself fortunate to have crossed paths with the USARA team.”
Damny, fled Honduras with her daughters and grandchildren. In 2023, when Damny and her daughter were asked to work reduced hours, and her other daughter lost her job due to her speech impediment, the family struggled to pay rent. The Financial Coaching team immediately assessed her loan request to avoid eviction. As she continues working on her English, she hopes to soon return to teaching.
Anwar, currently works at the IRC in the NY office, supporting clients as an employment specialist.
We are so proud of Anwar, Gustavo, Damny, and Serhii for following their goals and envisioning a new future. We thank you for reading beyond the numbers and connecting with these stories and invite you to honor refugees around the world!
World Refugee Day is an international day organized every year on the 20th of June by the United Nations. It is designed to celebrate and honor refugees from around the world. The day was first established in 2001 in recognition of the 50th anniversary of the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees. This day celebrates the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee from their home county to escape conflict, extreme poverty, or persecution.
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