Inspiring change together: How the IRC and companies co-create meaningful employee giving experiences 

Employees want to feel connected to causes that matter, and few causes resonate more deeply than the global refugee crisis. With over 117 million people forced to flee their homes around the world, employees are aware of the immense need and looking for ways to meaningfully make an impact. Companies that engage in this topic not only have the opportunity to meet employees where their passions lie, but also show that they’re committed to making a positive impact in the world. This is where nonprofit partnerships come in.  

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises, helping people to survive, recover, and gain control of their future. So they’re well poised to serve as a thought partner and employee engagement leader for companies looking to address this crisis in thoughtful and strategic ways. 

The IRC can align with your CSR efforts and your employee giving programs to give teams the opportunity to give back to refugees  around the world. And when you partner with the IRC, your company strengthens its culture of giving and generosity, becoming a place where purpose-driven employees are fully engaged.  

Employee Engagement Offering: Co-Create Something Meaningful 

The IRC understands that each company has unique values and aspirations, and they work closely with corporate partners to develop initiatives that drive both impact and employee engagement. Whether it’s through hands-on mentorship programs or educational sessions that highlight their life-changing work, the IRC partners with companies to co-create meaningful, tailored experiences that benefit both employees and the communities they serve.  

By designing programs that fit the needs of each organization, the IRC fosters connections between employees and the global mission of supporting refugees, empowering women, and rebuilding communities. 

Take, for example, the partnership between the IRC and Novartis. In 2021, the two organizations co-created a mentorship program that paired Novartis employees with IRC clients—refugee entrepreneurs seeking to grow their small businesses. This five-month initiative allowed Novartis employees to directly apply their skills to support businesses like food trucks and tailor shops, helping IRC clients increase their monthly revenues by up to 50%. Through one-on-one guidance in areas such as branding, digital payments, and marketing, employees made a tangible impact on both the business owners and the communities they serve. This is a shining example of how IRC customizes employee engagement to align with corporate skills and the specific needs of the communities they support. 

“The IRC opportunity was one of a kind and it was an incredible honor for me to get to know your personality, interests, skills, and competencies – from there, we were able to develop a business model that was innovative, simple, and holistic for you to adopt quickly.” – Novartis mentor to IRC client 

Similarly, the IRC partnered with 2U to create employee learning sessions that focused on Women’s Protection & Empowerment. As part of 2U’s International Women’s Day programming, IRC experts shared stories of their work with vulnerable women and girls, offering employees a deeply personal connection to the IRC’s mission. In addition to these educational sessions, 2U has supported IRC’s annual campaigns and encouraged employees to give in creative ways, such as redeeming reward points from their employee recognition program as a donation or opting for donations instead of corporate swag. This partnership exemplifies the IRC’s ability to integrate awareness-building and financial support in ways that align with a company’s culture and values. 

By working with the IRC, companies can create tailor-made engagement opportunities that resonate with employees and deliver measurable results. Whether it’s through strategic volunteering, learning sessions, or creative fundraising initiatives, the IRC is a partner that will work alongside your company to drive meaningful social impact and foster a deeper connection to global humanitarian work. 

Exploring the Impact 

See just a glimpse into IRC’s impact on the lives of refugees.  

Photo credit: International Rescue Committee

Prince, a Ugandan refugee, found a new home in San Diego back in 2010 with assistance from the IRC. Embracing his fresh start in California, Prince was driven to make a difference. He founded a charitable organization dedicated to supporting children in Ugandan refugee camps, which he once called home. Recognizing the potential to make a lasting, positive impact by offering training and jobs, especially to single mothers, he founded Huruma Clothing Co. in 2019 with his business partner, John Bernard. Huruma Clothing Co. is a socially responsible small business that sells imported clothing made by refugee women in Uganda. Huruma offers a range of stylish products, including bomber jackets, hats, bags, and shirts, that embody the vibrant cultural legacy of African textiles.  

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Prince approached the IRC for business support and was enrolled in a support program that helped him improve Huruma Clothing Co.’s digital presence and access COVID-19 business grants. He also worked with the IRC to apply for and receive two microloans in 2022 and 2023. Prince used the funds to acquire additional inventory and broaden the reach of his business. 

“I am thankful for the help from the IRC San Diego, the team that made my dream a reality,” says Prince. Prince hopes to expand Huruma Clothing Co. to direct retail markets across the U.S. and beyond, further solidifying his position as a leader in the ethical entrepreneurship space. 

Need help? 

At Global Impact, we are dedicated to empowering companies to create meaningful and impactful employee engagement experiences. As a proud partner of the IRC, we offer comprehensive support to help you make the most of their incredible offerings. Whether you’re looking to introduce IRC to your organization, need assistance with event planning, or want fresh ideas for themes and topics, we’re here to help. 

Let us help you inspire greater giving and foster a culture of social responsibility within your organization. Reach out today to get started!