Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization (IRCO)

Mission

IRCO’s mission is to promote the integration of refugees, immigrants, and the community-at-large into a self-sufficient, healthy, and inclusive multi-ethnic society, centering the needs of newcomers building new beginnings.

Bottom Line for Portland

Founded by refugees in Portland more than 45 years ago, IRCO welcomes new arrivals into the social fabric of our city every day. Our programs help individuals and families thrive at every age and stage of life—providing housing services, supporting survivors of violence and exploitation, offering training and employment services, assisting small businesses, engaging children, youth, and their families, empowering immigrant and refugee leadership through civic engagement, and more. We are the largest immigrant and refugee community-based organization in Portland led by and organized for the very communities we serve, and these services are a lifeline for communities who have been long underserved and ignored in Portland and beyond. Funds from this Give!Guide campaign will directly support culturally and linguistically specific and responsive programs that engage thousands of immigrants, refugees, and other community members every year. Help newcomers build new beginnings with IRCO.

Quote

“I believe housing is key to every success. Knowing that if you have a place to stay, then you’ll be stable. When you have a home, you can think about education. You can think about employment.” Salome Nanyenga, Housing & Supportive Services Manager

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Our commitment to equity, anti-racism, and social justice: Our immigrant and refugee community in Oregon is the center of our mission, vision, decisions, and actions. We envision a diverse cultural and linguistic community where each person can fully participate, prosper, thrive, and belong. Our work is driven by an equity and trauma informed lens, strong internal values, a learning organization practice, community-centered partnerships, organizing, advocacy, anti-racism, and a social justice ethic and practice. We are dedicated to developing systems and structures of accountability and transparency. We are committed to this journey.

Incentives

IRCO is proud to partner with local businesses owned by immigrant, refugee, and BIPOC communities:

The first 25 donors of $25–$99 on Big Give Days will receive a $1 off for a dozen donuts at Heavenly Donuts (504 NE 102nd Ave. location).

The first 50 donors of $100+ on Big Give Days will receive a $5 coupon towards any food purchase at Fork And Spoon Food House.

• All donors of $250+ will receive $30 off any full service from ACE Detailing (19450 SW Cipole Rd. Tualatin OR 97062. Valid: January–June 30, 2023).

Business Partner(s)

Help IRCO reach its goal for GivingTuesday: Your gift will be matched by The Renaissance Foundation up to $10,000!