International Rescue Committee

International Rescue Committee is a charity that works with refugees and internally displaced persons in 42 countries. They also have resettlement offices in 24 U.S. cities, where they help newly-arrived refugees establish new lives in America. I have been volunteering with them for the past few months, working with Somali Bantu infants and toddlers while their mothers take English classes. It is a very rewarding experience, though like many charities, IRC is suffering from a lack of funding in these difficult economic times.

There is a really great video on their web site which highlights their work. This season, they are offering symbolic gift baskets to aid refugees for a donation as low as $25. If you are looking to give a charity gift this year, please consider the IRC. 90% of their funds are spent on programs and services, which earns them an A+ from charity watchdog American Institute of Philanthropy.