The lives of more than fifteen million refugees world-wide are forever changed by the profound terrors of war, the loss of loved ones, a home, a job, and a hope for the future. Uprooted from their homelands, their uncertain future is further shadowed by their bewildering past. Everyday, IRIM welcomes refugees to safety in Chicago. The breadth and depth of IRIM’s programs helps each of them to discover a new sense of hope and independence for tomorrow.

IRIM was founded in 1982 as part of the Illinois Conference of Churches' Refugee and Immigration Program, and incorporated as a stand-alone 501(c) 3 nonprofit organization in 1992. Serving individuals of all races, creeds, ethnic, religious, and geographic backgrounds, our mission is to provide comprehensive services to help refugees, asylees, and immigrants lead safe, self-sufficient lives. This is only achieved by forming collaborations and partnerships, which include Church World Service (CWS), Episcopal Migration Ministries (EMM), Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS), the Illinois Department of Human Services, Federal Governmental Agencies, community groups, local churches, and individuals. Together, these partnerships create the opportunities and pathways that connect newly-arrived refugees and immigrants to Chicago.

IRIM's services address the social, emotional, and material needs of refugees and immigrants. They include a Senior Services Initiative, Immigration and Citizenship Services, a Vocational Training Program, a Youth Program, Reception & Placement Services, a Women's Empowerment Program, Employment & Family Adjustment Services, and English Language Training.

Read IRIM’s 2007 Annual Report (pdf)

IRIM’s Board of Directors