What organizations help refugees?

Established in 1989 by concerned American citizens, USA for UNHCR is a non-profit organization that strives to meet the unmet needs of the more than 120 million refugees and others who have been forced to flee their homes due to war, violence or persecution.

USA for UNHCR’s mission is to protect and support refugees by mobilizing resources, elevating awareness, and driving action through a network of engaged supporters.USA for UNHCR’s vision is a world where every person forced to flee can build a better future.

UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency

USA for UNHCR is the only organization in the U.S. dedicated to raising awareness and funds for the UN Refugee Agency.

The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), also known as the UN Refugee Agency, is the world’s leading organization that aids and protects people forced to flee their homes due to violence, conflict and persecution. UNHCR provides shelter, food, water, medical care and other lifesaving assistance to refugees around the world.

Most refugees dream of returning home. When possible, UNHCR helps refugees return to their homeland. When they are unable to do so, UNHCR helps them rebuild their lives in another country. Since its formation by the United Nations General Assembly in 1950, UNHCR has helped tens of millions of refugees restart their lives and has twice received the Nobel Peace Prize.

In 2024, new crises unfolded and unresolved ones continued to deepen. It was a year marked by turmoil and unprecedented levels of displacement for the twelfth consecutive year. From delivering lifesaving aid in new emergencies—such as escalating hostilities in Lebanon, the overthrow of Syria’s former government, gang violence in Haiti, and widespread flooding across Africa, Asia and Latin America—to addressing protracted crises in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Myanmar, Sudan, Ukraine, as well as mixed refugee and migrant movements from Venezuela and through the Darien, UNHCR remained a steadfast presence, protecting and supporting millions of displaced people globally.

Our Team

USA for UNHCR’s dedicated team, led by Executive Director and CEO Suzanne Ehlers, works to support refugees every day. Each USA for UNHCR staff member shares a commitment to our six core values.

We are passionate. Our team members are committed to the mission — it’s not just a commitment, it’s a calling. We are dynamic. We are continuously evolving – finding the best course of action and taking it. We are transparent. We are open and honest with each other, our donors, partners and other stakeholders. We are cutting edge. We aspire to be pioneers and find new approaches to connect others with our mission. We are data driven. We analyze data, facts and trends to drive results for refugees. We are forward thinking. We are outcome-oriented and focused on what’s ahead.

Our Community

USA for UNHCR’s remarkable community of supporters takes action every day to stand in solidarity with refugees. Whether by making compassionate monthly donations, signing petitions that advocate for the rights of refugees, racing and fundraising as part of Team Step with Refugees, utilizing the Culture Collective to build connections, engaging with refugees’ stories on social media or leaving a gift for USA for UNHCR in their wills, our supporters are passionate and committed to making a difference in the lives of those who have been forced to flee their homes.

You can join our incredible community of supporters today by donating to USA for UNHCR. USA for UNHCR’s donors help refugees in their greatest time of need with shelter, food, water and medical care, and their support builds awareness for resettled refugees living in the U.S. With your help, more refugees will have the opportunity to build peaceful lives and give their families a bright future.