Over 1.8 million nonprofits and charities for donors, volunteers and funders

2013 Top-Rated Nonprofit

International Rescue Committee

27,671 Pageviews Read Stories

Claim This Nonprofit

Nonprofit Info

 

 

Add to Favorites

Share this Nonprofit

Donate

Volunteering Oportunities

Nonprofit Overview

Causes: International, International Development, International Migration & Refugee Issues, International Relief

Mission: The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. Founded in 1933 at the request of Albert Einstein, the IRC offers lifesaving care and life-changing assistance to refugees forced to flee from war or disaster. At work today in over 40 countries and 22 U.S. cities, we restore safety, dignity and hope to millions who are uprooted and struggling to endure. The IRC leads the way from harm to home.

Community Stories

99 Stories from Volunteers, Donors & Supporters

Jim657 Donor

Rating: 1

07/13/2024

I donated several times based on their Ukraine refuge advertisements only to discover they use the funds as they please and not towards the refugies they advertise. Quite unethical. Upon closer look I discovered the US investigated them for fraud and the charity ended up paying over six million to resolve. There go my donations!

I understand they may have good intentions within their organization, but they should allow a person to apply the donations to the particular refugees that the charity advertises for. I emailed them several times and they never responded. That silence says alot.

There are better and more ethical charities to donate too so be aware.

katjasnova90 General Member of the Public

Rating: 4

11/26/2022

I think that the IRC organization lives up to its commitments in providing educational and economic wellbeing to refugees. The organization helps (among other actions) refugees to apply for permanent residency and US citizenship as well as helps them to settle down in the new country through active social engagement and learning opportunity.

In the summer of 2020, I had a chance to observe the organization’s operations as it was in charge of providing refugees support in US citizenship application.

Becoming a citizen is a very important part in a refugee’s life history. I observed the IRC provide information on how to obtain legal assistance, prepare paperwork for those who have difficulty understanding the English language, and assist with learning about the US history and civics test. Overall, the process of educating immigrants about the necessary steps needed to apply for a US citizenship as well as the support with each step looked well streamlined to me as it did yield results. I would highly recommend this organization, and have donated in the past.

4

RileyTroy55 Donor

Rating: 1

07/15/2022

I was approached by one of their employees on the streets of Washington DC in June about donating the IRC. The worker told me it was a one time donation. I gladly donated and now just found out it was a recurring payment every month. I should have read the term and agreement more carefully but the fact that I was lied to from a representative and was given no notification of this recurring payment is a disgusting practice. Find another organization to donate to.

1

shaun417 Volunteer

Rating: 5

06/27/2022

I'm trying to help this family please read my story https://gofund.me/ac662c79

6

vnik Donor

Rating: 1

06/21/2022

Please never share your personal details, credit card details, etc. with anyone from this company. You will be a lifelong donor, even if you don't want to be. This company will continuously withdraw money from your bank account without your permission.

7

Vivienne A. Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 1

02/19/2022

IRC has a early employment opportunity program.
I have the experience of working with UNDP and DoS as IT professional for several years. When I joined this program I thought they would help me to prepare a better resume and help me by recommending me to companies for their vacant positions. But they tell me, we will send you for some labor jobs in supermarkets because you don't have any other skill comparable to the Americans and your degree worth nothing here in US. I think they are just trying to find some labor worker and discourage skillful persons.

34

Nai_N General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

09/18/2017

I arrived to the United States, on a cold winter of December about 16 years ago from a small nation known as Myanmar. I spoke very little English and was very hard to fit in with teenagers around my age. Then, I was referred to the International rescue Committee, for they have a Youth Program, that really help refugee youths like me feel the sense of belonging.
I was in the program for throughout Middle School. I learned about the American "youth" culture. I made friends from different nationalities within the program. The Youth Program gave me the confidence which allowed me to believe that I could go to College and that I could help the world become a better place.
I graduated from Woodward Academy in 2009 and continued with my college career at Berry College. After graduating from Berry in 2013, I went into the Peace Corps. There, I served as a Community Economic Development Agent in a small West African nation called Burkina Faso for 2 years.
Now, I work for the International rescue Committee as the Career readiness Specialist for the youth program called Connect to Success. The program provides holistic support to refugee youth and young adult to help them meet their education and career goals. Through one on one coaching and group classes, program participants gain skills and connect with opportunities to achieve long term success.
This could not have ended up better for me. It truly is a pleasure to be working an organization that shaped me into who I am today and be able to give back to the refugee youths and share the steps which I have taken before their time.
If this is not a perfect full circle of what giving and investing in refugees does, then, I don't know what is.

Review from #MyGivingStory

25

newbury Donor

Rating: 5

10/27/2014

I recently went on a field trip with IRC to Haiti. Despite the devastation caused by the earthquake, I was uplifted and inspired by the work that IRC has accomplished. Safe shelters, clean water, clean latrines, families reunited, and the tools and training to allow the Haitian people to help themselves and rebuild. It was a lesson in emergency assistance without creating dependency. IRC deserves the number one ranking in global NGOs.

17

VermontEve Donor

Rating: 5

10/27/2014

The IRC delivers year after year, helping those most in need and taking them from harm to home. Dollars donated go to the front lines, helping people directly. The IRC is an exceptionally well run organization.

Previous Stories
11

Donor

Rating: 5

10/29/2013

The IRC maximizes donor dollars to bring help to those most in need throughout the world and also helps immigrants to the US re-settle - providing assistance throughout the transition from "harm to home". We feel that our contributions to the IRC provide superior returns on investment and empower people throughout the world through humanitarian efforts.

8

Caffrey Donor

Rating: 5

10/30/2013

I would recommend the IRC to my friends as one of the best charities for humanity worldwide.

10

paskin Donor

Rating: 5

10/29/2013

I've supported the IRC for several years now and I've been very impressed with all aspects of our relationship. They do a great job of communicating how resources are spent, and I am a big fan of how they approach the difficult problems they tackle, e.g., involving local resources as much as possible to minimize the chance that they leave a void when they exit.

6

krueger family Donor

Rating: 5

10/29/2013

My husband and I have supported the IRC for over 5 years. We feel that the IRC is an unbelievably well run organization. They do a wonderful job keeping donors up to date on the status of the various countries and communities they support.

15

Bagan Donor

Rating: 5

10/29/2013

I have supported IRC for 15 years as a corporate and personal donor. I have visited their operations in nations in conflict and in the US harm to home program. My daughter and several friends have worked for IRC as employees and volunteers. By every measure, IRC is the best of the best - no frills, pragmatic, non-sectarian, non-political, efficient, thoughtful and courageous. By supporting IRC, I am helping people in desperate need and at the same time, projecting US values in the best way possible. The IRC will remain our principal charity recipient and will receive a bequest.

8

EdwardsJ Donor

Rating: 5

10/29/2013

I started out as a volunteer in the IRC's Baltimore office. After such a great experience there, I became a donor to the organization, and have been donating for years. They get help to those who need it most, and I know my donation is being put to good work.

2

rimmy Donor

Rating: 5

10/29/2013

We are greatful our family is able to contribute to such a wonderful organization . Thank you IRC for providing aid to so many, & for using our donations in the Most efficient way!

2

CJGilchrist Donor

Rating: 5

10/29/2013

The aid the IRC provides targets the most tragic situations in the world. It is a natural place to start our giving to help those in need.

6

lucynyc1 Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

09/10/2013

I worked at the IRC as a fundraiser for five years and had the pleasure of seeing its invaluable programs up close as well as meet many of the wonderful donors who make its work around the world and across the US possible. During my time at the IRC, I quickly came to realize that it is one of the most passionate, effective, professional, intelligent, thoughtful, and efficient humanitarian aid organizations dedicated to saving and rebuilding lives devastated by conflict and natural disaster. Its staff on all levels is phenomenal and represent the best in the field, and its holistic approach ensures that families and communities have access to innovative and wide-ranging programs that are based on research, best practices, and decades of experience. Many of the IRC's donors have generously supported the organization for years--their unwavering commitment is a testament to IRC's remarkable accomplishments and the important role it continues to play in improving lives and communities around the world.

3

Nora9 Donor

Rating: 4

09/10/2013

I worked at the IRC for over five years and joined their legacy society, Partners for Freedom, shortly after starting my job there.
I continue to stay well-informed of the extraordinary work that IRC does to empower women, children and communities to achieve their potential despite the huge challenges they have faced for most of their lives. IRC's work during emergencies is unparalleled and their efforts to reconstruct communities is holistic and sustainable. Moreover, IRC's programs are efficient and effective and their fundraising efforts are smart, visionary and very successful. I am proud to continue to belong to the IRC family!
Nora B.

3

pathackbarth Donor

Rating: 5

03/08/2013

I have friends who do humanitarian work in Afghanistan and they give the IRC a glowing recommendation, based on the work they have seen them doing. The IRC is exceptionally effective, in part because they are on the ground in the trouble spot longer than many other organizations, and in part because they make such good use of local people and their expertise and social networks. They seem to be the experts on water and sanitation, two of the most urgent components of many crises. And the portion of your dollar that goes to the work itself is probably the highest I've seen.

Review from CharityNavigator

levy1902 Donor

Rating: 5

11/08/2012

The International Rescue Committee is by far the best charity i have ever donated to. The variety of programs and the quality of them are truly outstanding. They operate globally and use resources efficiently.

Review from CharityNavigator

1

Toni Delisi Donor

Rating: 5

10/29/2012

I donate to IRC because I support its mission for rescuing lives around the world and because it uses 93% of its revenue for their rescue programs. That's a key statistic I consider when determining where to send my charity dollars. I trust IRC to use my donation wisely and to keep me informed how they use it.

Review from CharityNavigator

Phillydonor Donor

Rating: 5

10/29/2012

We have gradually narrowed down the list of charities we support to those we are sure will have the most impact. Many charities are deserving but only a few are truly outstanding. These excel at their task and are very cost-conscious with their fundraising. Over the more than twenty years that we have supported the International Rescue Committee, we have only become more impressed with their dedication. The IRC is the top recipient of our charitable donations.

Review from CharityNavigator

David Looney Donor

Rating: 5

10/28/2012

The International Rescue Committee has a long history of helping those in greatest need at the most difficult times across the world. As a donor, I have the highest confidence that the vast majority of dollars I give will be used to render these critical services, rather than on fundraising or administrative expenses. Their integrity and transparency are outstanding.

Review from CharityNavigator

Michael Addis Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/28/2012

I have been a volunteer with IRC for about a year. IRC is very effective in integrating refugees into US culture and does an excellent job finding jobs for these folks.

Review from CharityNavigator

Nancy73 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/27/2012

I have been supporting the IRC since the late 1970s, when the organization was Spanish Refugee Aid. The IRC has years of experience working directly with refugees and I know that my contributions have always been well used as well as much needed.

Review from CharityNavigator

malena.feil General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/27/2012

I am very selective about which organizations I choose to support. IRC is in my top 5 without question. Their response to emergencies is immediate and effective. I trust them to use my donations in the most useful manner possible.

John Gunning Donor

Rating: 5

10/25/2012

I worked with IRC overseas as a Foreign Service Officer managing U.S. aid. IRC staff were alway professional and caring. Their programs were both effecting and efficient. I have been donating to them for many years both before and since my retirement. Aid dollars go further with IRC than almost every other NGO.

Review from CharityNavigator

tom.tommaser.maser Donor

Rating: 5

10/25/2012

I've been donating to the IRC for decades and track their performance very carefully. When disaster strikes anywhere the IRC response is almost instantaneous. They always seem to beat United Nations and United States relief efforts by a few days, and they do so without political considerations. There administration and fund raising costs are amazingly low, consistently better than most charities. I don't know how they do this, but they do.

Review from CharityNavigator

4

Suzanna Lengyel Client Served

Rating: 5

10/25/2012

56 years ago, in 1956, we fled Hungary following the failed uprising against the Soviet rule. We made our way from Budapest to Vienna. A friend told us about the IRC (International Rescue Committee). We signed up... we were welcome. Within a few weeks, we were on our way to the United States. We spent a week in a refugee camp in New Jersey: Camp Kilmer. From there, to New York City. The IRC placed us in a hotel in Manhattan. In a short time, some of us were able to make professional connections and started working. Others were helped by the IRC to find jobs. The IRC helped us to receive clothes. In those first months, the IRC continued to support us financially. We will forever be very grateful to the IRC. In our minds, the IRC serves as a model of an international charity. Suzanna Lengyel.

Review from CharityNavigator

lieblingbi Donor

Rating: 5

10/25/2012

I have been donating to the IRC for several years. They not only help in hot spots around the world but also do excellent work in resettling refugees around the world. My money is put to good use.

Review from CharityNavigator

Omar H. Donor

Rating: 5

10/25/2012

I am a donor plus I work for the IRC for almost 4 years now. I wont donate my money unless I know that IRC is a great organization working really hard to help refugees all over the world no matter what part of the world they are from. Great organization, great staff and great leaders.

Review from CharityNavigator

Rita Leistner Donor

Rating: 5

10/25/2012

The IRC is one of the most effective and ethical organizations I know when it comes to helping real people on the ground in the most urgent situations. Their highly committed staff are their strongest asset. I trust them enough to have become a monthly donor. Rita Leistner, Documentarian, Lecturer, The University of Toronto.

bud.denson Donor

Rating: 5

10/25/2012

when ap person takes the time to review diff charities they'll find irc is amongst the top or at the top for reliability and cents on the dollar used. also, the fact they do several different things instead of one area focused on makes feel good. i allow them to dictate where my money goes and is needed. plus they keep you informed on the issues.

Review from CharityNavigator

Kimber G. Donor

Rating: 5

10/25/2012

We check out our charity donations carefully and follow the organizations. IRC is one of the most reliable first responders in crises situations and has a proven track records. they are responsible with our contributions and do not spend excess on advertising, management, or CEO salaries.

Review from CharityNavigator

flyingellie Donor

Rating: 5

10/25/2012

We are so pleased to support the IRC! With an overhead of less than 10% we know all of our donations are going to help those in need. The IRC is not giving a hand out they're giving a hand up! I appreciate the updates of how my donation is helping people have the opportunity of a fresh start. Great job IRC!

Review from CharityNavigator

Mae Nan Donor

Rating: 5

10/25/2012

IRC is one of two charities working on international humane and survival issues that I have supported for at least 15 years. Now that I have retired I have less money for charitable contributions, but I have not cut back my monthly automatic gift to the IRC as I feel that this organization makes my money go so far. I was particularly motivated by the work of Mary Ann Schwalbe with respect to the focus on women and was happy to learn more about her involvement with the IRC in her son's book, The End Of Life Book Club. The IRC newsletter is excellent and is consistent reminder of ravages around the globe.

Janet41 Donor

Rating: 5

10/24/2012

LIke many other charities doing great work, The International Resuce Committee excels at bringing desperately needed help to the people in need. I chose to donate to the IRC over many other charities, because it does not constantly barrage me with expensive mailings to seek more donations, but uses the money wisely to carry out its mission. I donate monthly, and get occasional updates by e-mail. I feel my donations are put to the greatest use by IRC.

Review from CharityNavigator

1

winto003 Donor

Rating: 5

10/24/2012

I first learned about the IRC's work back in the early 1990s. I was very impressed, and started contributing to them, and my wife and I have continued that up until the present. Sadly, the need for the IRC continues, year after year; I strongly urge you to make them part of your charitable giving.

Review from CharityNavigator

Gail Flackett Donor

Rating: 5

10/24/2012

I have been contributing to IRC for a few years now, and am impressed with the range of help it gives. Most recently I saw the role played in Sierra Leone in helping abused women on Half the Sky, a PBS Independent Lens special...I am very impressed.

Review from CharityNavigator

1

Jean19 Donor

Rating: 5

10/24/2012

The IRC is one of two charities I support for outstanding emergency and sustaining service on the international scene. I make an automatic monthly donation, and my husband and I make additional donations several times a year. I have implicit trust in the IRC to provide outstanding service to people in need and to use my donation in a fiscally efficient manner. Their work is so important that I will continue to support it next year when I retire and my funds are limited. I also have made provisions for the IRC in my will.

Review from CharityNavigator

3

Peter16 Donor

Rating: 5

10/24/2012

When my mother passed away, I selected the IRC as my recommended charity for anyone wanting to make a donation in her memory. She was a holocaust survivor; the IRC was involved then, and continues to be involved, helping people flee unimaginable lives. I might be exagerrating to say I wouldn't be here to recommend the IRC if they hadn't begun their work almost 80 years ago, but a lot of people owe their lives, and the quality of their lives, to this organization's mission. I like to think that this charity also helps raise the reputation of the United States around the world.

Review from CharityNavigator

Barbara79 Donor

Rating: 4

10/24/2012

As a retiree, my resources are limited. I need to feel that when I donate the monies are used wisely and with good stewardship I trust the IRC to do just that in the work it does.

Review from CharityNavigator

Ann Bardacke Donor

Rating: 5

10/24/2012

My husband and I have been supporting the International Rescue Committee for over a decade. It is the one international aid group that does not demonize Israel -and its record of keeping administrative costs down is most impressive. It works all over the world - something it has done since it was formed during WW2. I intend to keep up our annual donations for years to come.

Review from CharityNavigator

emilykw87 Donor

Rating: 5

10/24/2012

I love that they use most of their resources on actually helping people who need it the most. This is a great global charity.

Review from CharityNavigator

1

rozblanck Donor

Rating: 5

10/24/2012

Having lived and travelled in the developing world since the early 60's, I am mindful of the depth and breadth of needs out there. IRC is one of the NGO's I trust to use my contributions well.

Review from CharityNavigator

1

leenusrich Donor

Rating: 4

10/24/2012

I have been a donor to IRC for many years. Every time I donate I feel like my money is being used wisely for the suffering people irrespective of the religion, race or country.

Review from CharityNavigator

Previous Stories
1

Volunteer

Rating: 4

09/21/2011

Most of the money is spent on programs not on other expenses. That's the reason I donate, support and recommend IRC

Review from CharityNavigator

Loretta F. Donor

Rating: 5

10/24/2012

IRC is one of my top two charities, the other being Drs. without Borders. This group does such wonderful work in so many places and manages to keep its overhead and fundraising expenses to a minimum. I think they are one of the most effective rescue organizations around. I like that they email updates on what has been happening.

Review from CharityNavigator

Valerie25 Donor

Rating: 4

10/24/2012

We have been supporting IRC at a pretty substantial level for years (compared with other groups we give to) and I've always felt very secure that our support is used well. This world is such a difficult place for so many less fortunate than we are. It feels that something very concrete is happening when I get notices about families that are being settled close by to our own neighborhood. The local office is always responsive and frankly I wish I could respond more frequently. It is such a major transition to make a life here in the US and the office really seems to try to be proactive in the care that is forthcoming. Please keep up this important work.

Review from CharityNavigator

1

judymae47 Donor

Rating: 4

10/24/2012

Whenever there is a crisis somewhere (earthquake in Haiti, Sudan refugees, etc.), I feel the need to do something. However it is too challenging to figure out who to give to, and I noticed that the IRC always seems to be there. Therefore, I contribute to them on a monthly basis and feel that somehow, somewhere my money is being put to good use.

Review from CharityNavigator

leesonsally64 Donor

Rating: 5

10/24/2012

I am delighted to report that I support the IRC in all of its rescue efforts around the world. I recently visited with a resettled refugee in Erie PA and he was just a wonderful individual and a real asset to the community. How nice that he is able to be here in the US contributing to our culture, We benefit from his being here and he benefits from being here - a win win situation! I think IRC spends their funds wisely and I love their Roots gardening projects. I have recommended IRC to many friends and acquaintances when they are looking for an efficient, effective organization to receive their hard earned money donations.

Review from CharityNavigator

kgw2 Donor

Rating: 4

10/24/2012

I've done some benchmarking and feel this charity works hard to match donations when and where possible and I feel the CEO salary is actually reasonable for an organization that is successful. If you want talent, you have to pay for it. As some others mentioned, many charities have far higher pay for their CEOs.

Review from CharityNavigator

3

MICHAEL REPUCCI Donor

Rating: 3

10/19/2012

I've been donating to the IRC for several years and have to admit that I too find the salary of the CEO obscene. I'd truly like to hear the rationalization for any salary of a charitable organization above the average of 98% of Americans. I will continue to look for efficient and effective organizations in which the administrators are more selfless, and when I find one, I will redirect my donations; recommendations are welcomed.

Review from CharityNavigator

2

Liz612 Donor

Rating: 5

07/30/2012

If you think this salary is high, please check out other reputable (better to say "well known" as in American Cancer Society whose head makes $2,000,000/yr) charities for comparison. This salary is not high considering. I will definitely keep IRC among the charities to whom I regularly donate.

6

w_65_j General Member of the Public

Rating: 2

03/03/2012

This salary is obscene. $380,818 George E. Rupp President, CEO

Review from CharityNavigator

1

JIBRAN Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 3

03/03/2012

n 2010 Haiti was struck by a devastating earthquake that cost more than 230 000 lives, leaving thousands homeless and injured, thus touching the lives of most people in Haiti. In the meantime, whilst strong global humanitarian efforts have helped to improve the situation, other circumstances like storms, rainfall and flooding have prohibited the recovery of infrastructure and many people are still suffering. The subsequent onset of the cholera disease has further amplified the difficulties.

cafeballerina Volunteer

Rating: 5

03/01/2012

This organization works hard to make sure their clients are taken care of. The few staff members I have gotten to know will go out of their way to go up and beyond the call of duty. I have seen staff drive very far for just a few items to give to a client that was not in dire need of these items, but it would make their transition to America easier. Some staff members have worked OT to ensure clients will be home at a certain time for donation deliveries, to ensure the clients are receiving the basic items they need and more. This organization strives to provide refugees with the tools they need to make them self-sufficient and hearing feedback from refugees, I can attest to what a great job IRC is doing.

1

SammysMammy Volunteer

Rating: 5

03/01/2012

The IRC guides refugees through their resettlement transition with tremendous care, support and empowers these people to rebuild their lives. I first volunteered as an American Friend in Phoenix, Arizona and was assigned to a Somali family just arriving to embark on their new life in the U.S. Their journey was heartbreaking, but their resiliency was inspiring. My volunteer efforts with the Farrah family ranged from coordinating appointments, communicating with school administrators, helping their children with homework and ESL studies, assisting Mr. Farrah in his job seeking efforts, teaching them to make change while shopping for groceries and learn how to use public transportation. Our visits were often spent tackling the myriad of challenges a complete language and cultural barrier presented for this family. It was an enriching experience to bare witness to their progress and to see how much the IRC focuses on ultimately providing the tools for them to thrive. The long term relationship the organization has with the refugees makes evident their true dedication to the refugee cause. I was impressed by the hard working and genuine staff I interacted with. It was easy to see the powerful impact that the IRC has on my community, which is why I chose to involve my employer with additional volunteer efforts. We held a financial literacy workshop for a group of refugees from Myanmar. We taught them how to plan household budgets and other financial basics. I can't speak highly enough about my experiences with the IRC, it's staff and the grateful people they service. My experiences were meaningful in so many ways and I believe wholeheartedly the IRC is doing work that is changing the world.

rkk123 Volunteer

Rating: 3

02/29/2012

I volunteered once with IRC and it was a great experience. However, i am still awaiting more duties and its been two months already.

haileyr Donor

Rating: 5

02/29/2012

Educating girls in underdeveloped countries is really important to both my mother and me, so I gave my mom a "year of school" Rescue Gift for her birthday and she was so touched. She said it was the best gift she'd ever gotten. I love that the International Rescue Committee offers this special way to give in someone's honor. I call it two-for-one-giving because you're giving to both the IRC and the person in whose name you make the donation.

1

dmjfourth Volunteer

Rating: 5

02/29/2012

IRC provides many opportunities to volunteer. I enjoyed working with them on a furniture drive. We gathered used furnishings from around the community and gave them to refugee housing. It was good to see the impact of my volunteer work.

Jeffrey F. Volunteer

Rating: 5

02/29/2012

I've volunteered and donated to IRC in Texas. What a great experience! Everyone who works there is great and they really care about what they're doing. There has never been a time when I was in the office and someone was rude or negative. They love their job and they love people. IRC is an organization I hope I can be a part of for a long time.

1

rarabarah Donor

Rating: 5

02/24/2012

I donated to the International Rescue Committee when I learned of the important work that they do where I live, assisting refugees in the San Diego area. Everything I've read and heard about them is positive, from their impact to their efficiency. I'm glad to contribute to my community and to the wellbeing of its newest members while also giving to an organization that assists the most vulnerable around the world.

irenecolth Volunteer

Rating: 4

02/22/2012

Interning with the IRC in my hometown, San Diego, as an after-school tutor/ESL assistant let me meet some incredible refugee youth (including some resettled for under a year) and the wonderful staff and fellow volunteers who helped them master academics, sports, and their own identity in their new country. The dedication and skill of the IRC staff was incredible -- it was about stepping back and letting those kids tell their own story.

Jim_8 Volunteer

Rating: 5

02/20/2012

As a volunteer ESL instructor, I get immeasurable satisfaction when my students tell me that they have passed the US citizenship test. And I have had the privilege of meeting courageous and fascinating people from all over the world.

sylvie.revak Donor

Rating: 4

02/15/2012

There is an IRC office right here in my hometown, Charlottesville, Virginia. Having such an interestingly multi-faceted, trustworthy, and effective nonprofit in my area has had an incredible impact on the community. This past Christmas I was able to direct friends and family to the IRC fundraising website as an "alternate gift" idea. Not only was my personalized fundraiser easy to set-up and track, everyone who donated can be assured that their money is going to an established, capable group.

lsetterberg Volunteer

Rating: 4

02/15/2012

In volunteering with the IRC, I had the opportunity to interact on a very personal level with refugees from all over the world. I did things like take them to get library cards, pick them up from doctors appointments, and help them get their State ID cards. The IRC makes the transition to life in the US very easy for refugees by being there for them every step of the way. I would recommend this organization to anyone who has a sincere desire to serve others and make a positive impact in someone else's life.

living technology General Member of the Public

Rating: 4

02/08/2012

We think that International Rescue Committee is doing a wonderful job in helping people. Without the help of non - profits many people around the world would not receive any help.

meganz1981 Donor

Rating: 5

02/08/2012

The work of the IRC is life-saving and life-changing. They are among the best Rescue organizations in the world, having a presence nearly everywhere there is a need. As a donor, I trust them to use my donations for good purposes. They have never let me down.

8

redcedar Donor

Rating: 2

11/24/2011

I'm sorry, but the 380,000 dollar salary is simply not justified, regardless of how it is measured as percent of and could make more elswhere and so on.

Ari A. Donor

Rating: 5

10/22/2011

The IRC is an organization that caters to the needs of those who need help the most around the globe both in temporary and permanent states of crisis.
With over 90% of the donation monies going to programs in the field and less than 10% spent on administration, the IRC is a charity I feel very good about contributing money to.
The programs run include survival level programs having to do with food, water, shelter and giving children safe environments and go all the way to helping immigrants from crisis zones establish lives in the United States after starting their lives here.

Review from CharityNavigator

gracewhall Donor

Rating: 5

10/22/2011

The IRC is one of my top three organizations. I feel they consistently respond rapidly to needs and also follow through on the commitments they make to refugees. When I asked them to just send information by email, they complied, so that less of my donation goes into mailings. All in all, this is an organization that I choose to support after checking out many alternatives.

Review from CharityNavigator

Jess B. Donor

Rating: 5

10/05/2011

I almost wholly donate to IRC when I have to disposable income to do so. They are knowledgeable, pleasant, and it's clear that the money goes directly to the source. I like being able to donate in my parents' name for birthdays, Christmas, Mother's and Father's Day. And they like knowing their gifts mean something.

Review from CharityNavigator

katassal Donor

Rating: 5

09/29/2011

Besides being a wonderful cause to support, the IRC is wise about how they use donations. They don't deluge me with unnecessary solicitations & "gifts". I am so tired of getting mailing labels and greeting cards from charities that aren't as frugal with my contributions.

Review from CharityNavigator

Virginia Lee Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/28/2011

In my capacity as an attorney, I was contacted by a Somali woman who, with her family, was resettled in Salt Lake City by the International Rescue Committee ("IRC"). With support from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (the "Mormons") and other denominations, the IRC has resettled Somalis, Cambodians and refugees from other countries here. I often read about these refugee communities in The Salt Lake Tribune, where the IRC is credited for its compassionate and determined efforts to rescue people caught in life-and-death circumstances around the world.

bbshanker Donor

Rating: 5

09/28/2011

The IRC has a long history and great track record of providing life-saving support to refugees and disaster victims around the world -- food, shelter, medical care, counseling, relocation assistance.

It is less well known than many better-funded charities because little of its budget goes to costly advertising campaigns. Instead, most of what they raise goes directly to programs. This only makes me support them more. Well worth your donation dollars.

Review from CharityNavigator

liarosen Donor

Rating: 5

09/28/2011

IRC is *the go-to place for donations; they get the work done and use the funds well... my sister, who works for International health, highly recommends them; they are reliable and efficient, for the right reasons.

My thanks to IRC for your great work!

Lia Lynn Rosen

Review from CharityNavigator

Dirk Salomons Advisor

Rating: 5

09/28/2011

Have done a number of evaluations for major donors in the last few years, and thus had an opportunity to see the IRC at work in both Asia and Africa. Their expertise across a wide range of humanitarian needs is impressive, and their persistence is legendary. From educational programs in the most dire refugee camps to reproductive health services for women fleeing violence, the IRC shows up where aid is most needed. Salaries are low, compared to those of the international organizations doing comparable work, but the staff's commitment shows that it's the mission that motivates, not the paycheck....

Sherry T. Donor

Rating: 5

09/28/2011

I am very selective about the organizations I support, and IRC is among a few that I trust the most. They are very professional and have a good track record of getting money where it's most needed.

Review from CharityNavigator

Andrejs O. Donor

Rating: 5

09/28/2011

It's such a boon to know an agency that is truly on the up-and-up in its service to people in need and in the way it handles resources. In the flood of junk-mail hustles, the familiar logo of IRC stands out as a place I can put my oar in where it will do some good.

Review from CharityNavigator

Robert Hadley Donor

Rating: 5

09/22/2011

I have had the unique experience of seeing the IRC at work in the field when I visited a Rwandan refugee camp near the borders of Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania back in late 1994. At the time, it was probably the largest refugee camp in the world. I had already been a donor prior to that; but after that visit I was an absolutely convinced donor for the rest of my life. I was very much impressed with the dedication and expertise of the IRC staff there. IRC works in so many areas of the world where others would not dare to go, and it also does a great job of resettling refugees in the U.S. When disasters strike, IRC is often one of the first to spring into action because they are so often already there with years of on the ground experience. They use a very high percentage of each of my donations for program and services, and I like that. I am an experienced donor, and I know an effective charity when I see it. IRC is an extremely effective charity.

maryheather1 Donor

Rating: 5

09/22/2011

IRC is one of the charities that I give to consistently, year in and year out. I've lived and worked with a number of refugees here in the United States, so I know from their stories just how important IRC is. I also appreciate that IRC keeps expenses low so more money can go to direct services.

Review from CharityNavigator

Donna234567 Donor

Rating: 5

09/21/2011

I worked professionally with the IRC and was inspired to become a donor. Their work not only saves lives, but changes them for the better.

Review from CharityNavigator

2

Andy D. Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

09/21/2011

IRC has both disaster-centered and stateside programs for refugees, backed by sound financial management, and a long-term view that makes it unique among charitable agencies in international health.

Review from CharityNavigator

sivadhc Donor

Rating: 5

09/21/2011

I hear from others in the nonprofit international relief world that contributing to IRC is the best way to insure that your money goes to help people in need. Also, I have recently learned, from an IRC staff member, what IRC is doing in my own state to combat human trafficking. I am very pleased with what I know about how they operate and with the communications they send to contributors.

Review from CharityNavigator

crumpet212 Donor

Rating: 5

09/21/2011

It resonates with me that the IRC was founded in 1933 at the suggestion of Albert Einstein, and their first work was to help those oppressed by Hitler. Their work is inspiring, the difficulties faced by those who need their aid heartbreaking.
My hope is that more people will be moved to give to the IRC, because so many in the world need their assistance.

Review from CharityNavigator

Mrtaylandlady1900 Donor

Rating: 5

09/21/2011

I have contributed to the IRC for seven years after receiving a mailing from the organization. I read the material and was impressed that the administrative costs were kept low and their field work was impressive.

This year I received a personal phone call from a woman who was a refuge from the middle east and was able to settle in the US thanks to the IRC. A very nice personal touch.

Review from CharityNavigator

Paddie C. Donor

Rating: 5

09/21/2011

I have been involved in fundraising for the different IRC causes and donating for the past 5 years and have been absolutely pleased at how my contributions are being used. The IRC has provided me with overwhelming knowledge on the different ways they are trying to reconstruct people's lives. I could not ask for a better foundation to support!
Sincerely,
-Paddie Herrera
St. Louis, MO

Review from CharityNavigator

Shirlee L. Donor

Rating: 5

09/21/2011

I donate to the IRC every year and I am totally impressed with the work that they do. Sincerely, Shirlee Lambeth

Review from CharityNavigator

bonbry Donor

Rating: 5

09/21/2011

I have donated to IRC for many years after a friend suggested I look into this organization. I am impressed with how most of the funds are spent directly in the field, not on promoting the IRC. Recently I donated to the IRC and received a personal phone call from a very grateful Iraqui immigrant thanking me for my donation which rescued her from a very dangerout situation in her country.

Review from CharityNavigator

ruthie_flynn Donor

Rating: 5

09/21/2011

As a long time contributor to IRC, I believe they are ALWAYS on the front lines--and in the trenches--of where there is desperate need due to natural disasters, military conflict, or terrorism. They are there not only to provide immediate support with essentials like water, food, shelter, and medical care--they are there for the long haul to assist families and communities in rebuilding their lives. They have my utmost respect and will continue to have my financial support as long as I live.

Review from CharityNavigator

SPENCER SPENCER_ADAMS@HOTMAIL.COM Donor

Rating: 5

09/21/2011

Whenever there's an emergency, disaster or crisis in any country, the IRC is there.

Review from CharityNavigator

Marjorie K. Volunteer

Rating: 5

09/21/2011

I recently attended a workshop by the IRC in Tucson, AZ to learn more about the human trafficking corridor running through my hometown. The facilitator was very well-informed, professional, and dedicated to helping this vulnerable population group. Now, I know how to spot a possible victim of trafficking and I know where to turn to get help for the victim...the IRC.

Review from CharityNavigator

2

C P Donor

Rating: 4

07/11/2011

No doubt the IRC is a worthwhile organization ...one I would not hesitate to recommend for their commitment and good work around the world. Having said this.... A word of caution... when donating via mail. Be advised that without your permission, your name will be shared with many other charitable organizations and the deluge of unsolicited mail will begin. I just called them to request that my name be removed from their lists...which they said they would do. This, of course, does nothing to stop the mail that currently comes relentlessly from all the other charities that initially received my address from them. I am now forced to take it upon myself to try to end this nightmare. No doubt IRC means well but they need to consider and respect the rights and privacy of those generous enough to give to them in the first place.

Review from CharityNavigator

Tom R. Donor

Rating: 4

05/12/2011

The IRC is a one of a kind organization that truly helps refugees from the actual rescue to resettlement here in the United States. They are constantly evolving and involving social media while keeping their core rescue part of their organization moving forward. A model for other NGOs.

FeltLikeHelping

FeltLikeHelping Volunteer

Rating: 5

04/05/2011

After the tradgedies in Haiti I decided I wanted to use my crafting to help others, so I opened an on-line shop to sell the items I make and donate all proceeds for Haiti relief.
I researched what charity I would donate to and was totally impressed with the IRC. Their history of helping is tremendous, and their efficient use of funds is admirable. Since then, I've also heard from others that know of the IRC and are equally impressed.
I appreciate the IRC for giving me a trusted route thru which to help the people of Haiti with my shop proceeds.

Roberta G. Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

03/21/2011

I am a nurse, humanitarian aid worker and writer and it has been my privilege to work with the IRC in their programs, both emergency and ongoing, around the world. For me, the IRC is the "real deal" delivering time and again, the purest form of humanitarian assistance imaginable. In the darkest corners of the world, it is invariably the IRC staff who will shine a light of hope by providing a myriad of necessary programs to allow refugees and displaced to survive chaos and destruction with their dignity, health and courage intact.
The IRC challenges all of us to be better, and by meeting that challenge, the world is a little more restored, a little more recovered each day.

9

mlcastillo Donor

Rating: 5

01/18/2010

This organization is A+ in every sense: track record (since 1933) of going to crisis zones to rescue and rebuild. They live up to their motto: From Harm to Home. International Rescue Committee believes in systemic change. I visited in Uganda this summer, July 2009, and met with the Program Director in Kitgum and her local staff. I was blown away by skills, caring, organization of IRC. Their response is immediate and sustaining. They commit to working with the local population and servicing their needs, from Emergency Response to Resettling Refugees, and everything in between. They are in Africa, Asia, Northern Caucasus, Middle East and the USA. 90% of funds are spent for Programs and Services.

Need help?