Integrated Refugee & Immigrant Services (IRIS)

The mission of Integrated Refugee and Immigrant Services (IRIS) is to help refugees and other displaced people establish new lives, regain hope, and contribute to the vitality of Connecticut's communities. IRIS began welcoming refugees from all over the world to the New Haven area in 1982 under the auspices of Episcopal Social Services of the Diocese of Connecticut. Today, with a staff of 45 full- and part-time employees, dozens of interns and over 100 volunteers, IRIS welcomes and resettles 500 refugees of all ages each year. With assistance focused on the initial months following a refugee’s arrival, IRIS services can last up to five years. We depend upon volunteers to partner with us in our work. We have an ongoing need for volunteers to provide companionship to refugees, and help them learn to navigate the healthcare system, learn English, and look for jobs, in addition to many other volunteer opportunities.