New name.
Same mission.
LIRS is now Global Refuge.
Welcoming newcomers since 1939.
See Our Evolution
Redefining home with renewed possibilities.
We walk alongside people from across the globe as they make a new home in the United States.
Our work of welcome embraces and empowers New Americans with restored hope for a better tomorrow.
Global Refuge, formerly Lutheran Immigration and Refugee Service (LIRS), is a nonprofit serving newcomers seeking safety, support, and a share in the American dream. For 85 years, we have welcomed those seeking refuge, upholding a legacy of compassion and grace for people in crisis.
We walk alongside individuals, families, and children as they begin their new lives in the United States through our work in refugee resettlement, welcome and respite services for asylum seekers, economic empowerment and employment, and family unification for unaccompanied children. To date, we have served over 750,000 people from around the globe.
What We Believe
View Our MissionWe believe all immigrants and refugees are protected, embraced, and empowered in a world of just and welcoming communities. We stand with and advocate for migrants and refugees, transforming communities through ministries of service and justice.
Who We Are
The history and people behind our 80+ years of welcome.
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Welcoming new neighbors since 1939.
We have welcomed new neighbors for more than 80 years. Founded during WWII, we continue to provide services to people seeking safety from war, disaster, persecution, and crises.Learn More -
Meet our leadership team, board of directors, and president’s council.
Inspired by a call to care, our leadership team provides guidance and direction rooted in our legacy of compassion.Learn More -
A national network for local impact
Our network of community, corporate, and faith-based partners allows us to expand our reach and deliver the promise of our mission around the world.Learn More -
A local welcome for global neighbors
Our field offices and network of global partners help us engage local communities in welcoming and supporting new neighbors.Learn More -
Join the Work of Welcome
We are driven by our mission to welcome newcomers with open arms and practical support. If you are inspired by our work, we invite you to explore job opportunities.Learn More -
Financial Information
Explore our impact and annual reports on the important work we are doing to resettle immigrants and refugees in the United States.Learn More
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Welcoming new neighbors since 1939.
Learn MoreHistory
We have welcomed new neighbors for more than 80 years. Founded during WWII, we continue to provide services to people seeking safety from war, disaster, persecution, and crises. -
Meet our leadership team, board of directors, and president’s council.
Learn MoreLeadership
Inspired by a call to care, our leadership team provides guidance and direction rooted in our legacy of compassion. -
A national network for local impact
Learn MoreOur Partners
Our network of community, corporate, and faith-based partners allows us to expand our reach and deliver the promise of our mission around the world. -
A local welcome for global neighbors
Learn MoreWhere We Work
Our field offices and network of global partners help us engage local communities in welcoming and supporting new neighbors. -
Join the Work of Welcome
Learn MoreCareers
We are driven by our mission to welcome newcomers with open arms and practical support. If you are inspired by our work, we invite you to explore job opportunities. -
Financial Information
Learn MoreFinancial Information
Explore our impact and annual reports on the important work we are doing to resettle immigrants and refugees in the United States.
Our History
Welcoming new neighbors since 1939.
Our roots are planted in the foundation of support and dignity.
From the very beginning, we’ve been an organization of help. During World War II, the first iteration of Global Refuge provided assistance and services for refugees from Germany and Eastern Europe.
View Our History
Meet Our Team
Inspired by a call to care, our leadership team provides guidance and direction rooted in our legacy of compassion.
Leadership
You can change lives.
Explore the many ways to support Global Refuge.
Get InvolvedExplore the many ways to support Global Refuge.
Get Involved