International Rescue Committee
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The International Rescue Committee was founded in 1933 at the request of Albert Einstein to assist opponents of Adolf Hitler. The IRC helps people fleeing racial, religious and ethnic persecution, as well as those uprooted by war and violence.
At work in 25 countries, the IRC delivers lifesaving aid in emergencies, rebuilds shattered communities, cares for war-traumatized children, rehabilitates health care, water and sanitation systems, reunites separated families, restores lost livelihoods, establishes schools, trains teachers, strengthens the capacity of local organizations and supports civil society and good-governance initiatives. For refugees afforded sanctuary in the United States, IRC offices across the country provide a range of assistance aimed at helping new arrivals get settled, adjust and acquire the skills to become self-sufficient.
(Source: IRC website)
The IRC gives out an annual Freedom Award.
The current President of the International Rescue Committee is George Erik Rupp, formerly the President of Columbia University and of Rice University.
