Mission Statement and I-House Partnership


Mission Statement
The IRC at UCSD is a vibrant, student-led organization that seeks to increase community engagement and international awareness among the UCSD student body.

Background
The IRC is an international organization that responds to the world's worst humanitarian crisis by providing assistance to refugees fleeing persecution. Thousands of refugees are resettled in the United States each year, and the IRC serves to restore safety, dignity, and hope to this vulnerable population. Since 2010, nearly 10,000 refugees have resettled to San Diego creating an incredibly unique opportunity for UCSD students to engage their global community by helping the IRC deliver basic services.

Volunteers at the IRC's San Diego offices are given the opportunity to work one-on-one with newly-arrived refugees primarily from the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Africa. There are a variety of tasks that students can get involved with including, but not limited to, teaching English, helping refugees find employment opportunities, assisting with immigration services, nutritional coaching, and empowering refugees financially. Additionally, working at the IRC provides students with countless opportunities for personal growth and the development of practical skills. Students will bolster their resumes, build valuable networks with working professionals, and have the rewarding experience of serving those in need.

The IRC at UCSD strives to create a close partnership between UCSD, the International Rescue Committee, and the vast refugee population in San Diego county. By raising awareness through on-campus events and promoting active community involvement, the IRC at UCSD establishes a strong community of students dedicated to global humanitarianism and sustainable social development.

Partnership
Housed with the Eleanor Roosevelt College (ERC), yet serving the entire campus, the International House at UCSD is "dedicated to the promotion of international awareness and intercultural understanding". The IRC at UCSD partners with and expands upon the vision of I-House by enhancing international and community citizenship, contributing to global understanding, and helping UCSD students connect with and engage their local and global communities. Through IRC at UCSD, students are able to gain practical experience working with newly-arrived refugees in San Diego while gaining firsthand knowledge of the human impact of international politics and global conflicts. Open to all majors and experience levels, the IRC at UCSD helps turn academic concepts into valuable community involvement.