On April 29th, the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Utah opened our doors to the community, welcoming over 150 supporters to tour the new office space, connect with staff, and enjoy a variety of small bites from diverse local businesses. The Open House was also supported by a generous contribution from KeyBank, a partner who also supports the breadth of entrepreneurship and economic empowerment programming at the IRC in Utah.

Danny Beus, executive director, reflected on the event: “It was a good reminder for me that more people are with us than against us. At a time of so much division and uncertainty, we need the community to help move us forward and get through the tough times. We need you now more than ever. The people we serve and work we do are under attack and your support sustains us. Thank you for being there for us but most importantly, thank you for being there for our clients.”

A small group walks through the well lit IRC office space passing by cubicles on a tour during the Open House.
Staff led supporters on a tour through the IRC's spaces during the Open House, describing the breadth of programs offered to local refugee and immigrant community members.
Photo: James Roh

During the event, attendees explored the spaces where newly arrived refugees and other immigrants receive a variety of services. From a stop by the Vocational English as a Second Language classroom to workspaces occupied by Department of Justice-accredited Immigration Legal Representatives, the guests learned more about the programs and services offered to help families rebuild their lives in our community.

The photographer peeks over the shoulder of a woman in a green hoodie writing a postcard to her elected officials. She's writing her postcard alongside a pile of posters with a call to action: "No Hate, No Fear, Refugees are welcome here!"
Supporting refugees in our community takes on many forms, including contacting elected officials to urge them to stand up in support of refugee and immigrant communities.
Photo: James Roh

Attendees wrote postcards to elected officials urging efforts to welcome and support refugees and other immigrants who contribute greatly to our community. Through the IRC’s Refugee Resettlement Response Guide,  supporters articulated the need to maintain safe pathways for individuals fleeing violence and persecution to seek safety in the U.S. as they become our neighbors, local entrepreneurs, employees, leaders and more.

Three guests in the photo make their way through a small-bite buffet, picking out food from large trays donated by local businesses.
Local businesses offered discounts and donations to help make the IRC in Utah's Open House a successful gathering!
Photo: James Roh

A sincere thanks to the local restaurants who provided discounts and donations to support the Open House, including Baghdad Sandwiches, Caputo’s Market, Fillings & Emulsions, Karim Bakery, and Tandoor Indian Grill.    

IRC staff members face supporters, answering questions and providing information about IRC programming. IRC staff stand behind tables with black tableclothes (photo left) facing supportings (photo right), including men & women in a variety of spring-time attire.
IRC team members engage with supporters, answering questions about our work, providing information about getting involved, and learning why the community steps up in support of the families we serve.
Photo: James Roh

Finally, our sincere thanks to all who joined us at the Open House. Now more than ever, the strength of our community and connections will ensure that refugee and immigrant families receive the support and resources they need to overcome obstacles and work to build anew in Utah. Thank you for your continued efforts in support of our work and the families we serve!

We have space for a neighbor! We have ~5,500 sq. ft of office space available for rent, including shared spaces with our team. If your organization or a connection in your network is looking for a workspace, reach us at SaltLakeCity@Rescue.org for more information.