Background Image: Shawl, China
Claire Reuning
Refugee Integration Specialist
Claire Reuning has worked with Catholic Charities Milwaukee since 2018 as a Refugee Integration Specialist. She develops programs in partnership with refugee communities that utilize their strengths and meet their community or individual goals. Claire believes American and refugee communities mutually benefit from getting to know each other, and values the personal relationships formed between program participants.
Claire earned her Bachelor’s degree in Geography and Hispanic Studies from Macalester College in St. Paul, Minnesota. In 2013, she earned her Master’s degree in Geography from UW-Milwaukee and completed a 2-year fellowship with the Milwaukee Idea for Economic Development. Claire speaks French and Spanish, and her work is greatly influenced by her experience as a Peace Corps volunteer in Benin, West Africa. There she depended on local community members to help her achieve self-sufficiency.
In her spare time, Claire enjoys baking treats with her daughter and practicing yoga.
Claire Reuning
Refugee Integration Specialist
Claire Reuning has worked with Catholic Charities Milwaukee since 2018 as a Refugee Integration Specialist. She develops programs in partnership with refugee communities that utilize their strengths and meet their community or individual goals. Claire believes American and refugee communities mutually benefit from getting to know each other, and values the personal relationships formed between program participants.
Claire earned her Bachelor’s degree in Geography and Hispanic Studies from Macalester College in St. Paul, Minnesota. In 2013, she earned her Master’s degree in Geography from UW-Milwaukee and completed a 2-year fellowship with the Milwaukee Idea for Economic Development. Claire speaks French and Spanish, and her work is greatly influenced by her experience as a Peace Corps volunteer in Benin, West Africa. There she depended on local community members to help her achieve self-sufficiency.
In her spare time, Claire enjoys baking treats with her daughter and practicing yoga.
Background Image: Shawl, China
Integration and Education
Free Classes and Programs
Refugees and immigrants of all backgrounds can benefit from the free education and integration services we offer. It’s hard to learn new systems, customs, processes, and languages. But with support from Catholic Charities Milwaukee, you can better understand American culture, prepare for citizenship, learn English, and more. If you have questions about one of our education and integration programs, or would like to register, please contact Claire. She speaks English, Spanish, and French.
Phone: (414) 771-2881
Email: creuning@ccmke.org
Background Image: Handwoven Shawl, Benin
Additional Resources
Refugees are not automatically given green cards; you must follow a unique set of rules to apply for one. The refugee green card application is free, but each family member will have to apply individually.
Refugees coming to the United States must make several adjustments, and often have questions about green cards, citizenship, and work permits.
Becoming a U.S. citizen gives you many advantages over being a lawful permanent resident. In addition to a long list of personal requirements, you must fill out a form and pay a fee. Ultimately, your best chance at success will be through the help of an honest and experienced immigration attorney.