The Big Picture
The International Rescue Committee responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. Founded in 1933 at the request of Albert Einstein, the IRC offers lifesaving care and life-changing assistance to refugees forced to flee from war or disaster.
At work today in over 40 countries and in 22 U.S. cities, the IRC's mission is to empower refugees to rebuild their lives, restore their sense of dignity, and fully participate in their new communities by providing compassionate support, resources and programs tailored to their unique needs. The IRC leads the way from harm to home.
Our Local IRC Office
The International Rescue Committee in Dallas opened in 1975 to provide resettlement services in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and in 2003 opened a sub-office in Abilene, Texas. The IRC in Dallas and Abilene provide services which help address the many immediate needs of newly arrived refugees. The assistance we provide includes rent for their first four months in the United States, necessities such as clothing and warm blankets, orientations on many facets of American culture, and, most importantly, assistance in finding and maintaining employment.
GAIA's Roots
Before GAIA was even a thought in her mind, GAIA founder Paula Minnis volunteered as an IRC mentor, committing to help a recently resettled Burmese refugee named Catherin learn English, navigate American culture, and feel at home in her new country. Paula was inspired to somehow support this larger community of refugees she had come to know and love. When she realized Catherin could sew, Paula combined her love of textiles with Catherin's artistry and GAIA was born in December 2009. It has since grown to employ eight additional refugee women living in Dallas -- originating from countries including Burma, Iraq, Iran, Syria and the Democratic Republic of the Congo -- all beautiful women with a new life and a new opportunity to grow.