Michael and Carol Taylor: Welcoming Refugees With Goodwill and Generosity

Michael and Carol Taylor’s work with refugees began during the Bosnian Civil War when they felt drawn to help refugees who were being resettled in the United States. Partnering with local organizations in Pittsburgh, the Taylors began sponsoring refugees, providing financial assistance and coordinating education, employment and housing opportunities. “Our goal was to help them become settled, independent and successful within their cultural values,” explains Carol. Carol still stays in touch with many refugees, whom she now considers friends.

When Michael and Carol began thinking about long-term support and planned giving, they sought out the IRC because they knew the mission was compatible with their humanitarian beliefs. “The IRC is so global in its work of helping people,” Carol says, “and the funds they receive are used appropriately.”

Active professionals, community members and humanitarians, Michael and Carol were married for more than 52 years before Michael passed away in 2019. Carol knows Michael would want their support to continue on as the need for humanitarian aid continues to grow. She adds, “With the recent crises in Afghanistan and in other countries, I know IRC is at the forefront of helping people within their home countries and those who are resettling in the U.S. Supporting IRC now and with a legacy gift is the best way to ensure that IRC will be able to continue to help refugees and people who are displaced in their home countries.”

Together with the IRC, the Taylors’ foresight, welcoming hearts, and immense generosity will help secure a more peaceful future for generations of refugees.