New name.
Same mission.
LIRS is now Global Refuge.
Welcoming newcomers since 1939.
See Our EvolutionAna Rosa and Her Family: Seeking Hope
Watch Their Story
Fostering a world of just and welcoming communities.
Redefine home with renewed possibilities.
With your help, we support and empower immigrants, asylum seekers and refugees who are rebuilding their lives in the United States.
Since 1939, Global Refuge (formerly known as Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service) has provided welcome and hope to more than three quarters of a million refugees. We are transforming lives and empowering New Americans with support and resources to begin anew.
Our legacy of compassionate service has made a difference in the lives of more than 750,000 people who have sought safety and hope in America’s communities. Our history reflects our own deep immigrant roots and passionate commitment to welcoming newcomers, especially those who are most in need.
Our Core Values
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Welcome
“When I was a stranger, you welcomed me.” Rooted in faith, Global Refuge believes that we are called to welcome those fleeing persecution and seeking refuge in the United States.
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Prophetic Witness
Not all are prophets, but all are called to be prophetic witnesses. At Global Refuge, this means we are committed to speaking out boldly and standing up for the just treatment of those we serve.
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Integrity
Driven by a desire to serve refugees and migrants, we refuse to compromise our moral, economic, and political integrity as we carry out our mission to that end.
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Innovation
Committed to bold action and continuous learning, Global Refuge invites others to join our mission, eager to embrace fresh perspectives and explore new ways to engage in this work of welcome.
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Interdependence
Global Refuge depends on a diverse network of community partners, faith-based groups, and private entities to magnify our reach and impact – and they rely on our expertise and leadership.
Our Vision
All immigrants and refugees are protected, embraced, and empowered in a world of just and welcoming communities.
Our Mission
As a witness to God’s love for all people, we stand with and advocate for immigrants and refugees, transforming communities through ministries of service and justice.
Providing Welcome and Hope
Our work of welcome continues to grow at a record-breaking pace. In 2022, Global Refuge walked alongside tens of thousands of immigrants and refugees as they began their new lives in the United States... and surpassed fundraising, media, and staff-growth goals along the way.
- 8.4k children reunited with family in the U.S.
- 1.2k New Americans served through innovative programming
- 4.9k refugees and immigrants resettled in 2022
18,261
asylum seekers welcomed and supported
Advocacy Priorities
Raise your voice to advocate for just, humane immigration policy. Check out our Advocacy Priorities to support the latest legislation and calls to action.
Join Us
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Grounded in our faith, we believe everyone should be celebrated, and valued for their unique life experiences. We believe diverse opinions, ideas, and beliefs are the foundation of a healthy organization and flourishing society. Our history of welcome is inspiration for a workplace that honors all.
Impact Story
Norma's Story:
Hope for Her Son
“The quality of life we have now is completely different.”
Through the New American Cities program, Norma found a career that aligned with her passions and interests—and allowed her the flexibility she needed to care for her son.
In Action
June 16, 2023
Global Refuge Launches Baltimore Welcome Center
The Welcome Center will be more than a building, it will represent an opportunity to build a better Baltimore.
Global Refuge opened its newest Welcome Center in Baltimore with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at its Inner Harbor headquarters on June 13.
You can change lives.
Explore the many ways to support Global Refuge.
Get InvolvedExplore the many ways to support Global Refuge.
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