IRD’s mission is to reduce the suffering of the world’s most vulnerable groups and provide tools and resources needed to increase their self-sufficiency; this often means speaking out on behalf of the people we serve. We work to educate both people here in Washington, D.C. and in the countries where we work about the real conditions they are facing on a daily basis.

IRD will be offering more opportunities for you to get involved, to advocate for the people we serve. On issues such as foreign aid, refugees and the internally displaced, and sustainable agriculture, your voice can make a positive difference in the lives of others.

America's Forgotten First: Malnutrition in American Indian Communities

Kansas City, MO — April 14, 2008 — Malnutrition is a growing issue facing marginalized and underserved segments of the U.S. population, especially rural and reservation-based American Indians. A new study, conducted by Dr. Michele Companion of the University of Colorado and commissioned by International Relief and Development, examines the “double burden” of poverty: malnutrition along with a rapid rise in obesity and diet-related chronic diseases in American Indians. Although many Americans may not know it, in fact, malnutrition on reservations is comparable to malnutrition is some developing countries. Learn more about the study and its preliminary findings here.

As part of its commitment to vulnerable populations worldwide, IRD is working to raise awareness about malnutrition on reservations here in the United States. Your voice can help contribute to this effort. Join the Mayor of Kansas City, Mark Funkhouser, in signing the petition to raise awareness. Help make sure that all Americans have access to this country's natural resources.