Meet Dian Krueger, Case Coordinator
1/28/2020
Meet Dian Krueger. Dian is our Case Coordinator in our new Services for Asylum Seekers program. Dian believes in the values of human life and social justice to improve the conditions of humanity, which carries on in her personal life too.
1. Tell us a little about yourself.
I am originally from New York City. I grew up in the original melting pot. I was surrounded by people from different countries and cultures. This led to an extended stay overseas where I studied abroad. Living in Europe for so long gave me the opportunity to visit and explore many other countries. Prior to obtaining my bachelor’s degrees in Anthropology and Sociology from IUPUI, I was a translator and interpreter in Germany. I am also a certified career coach and spent several years working in one of the most underprivileged neighborhoods in Indianapolis.
2. What is your role at Exodus?
Our Services for Asylum Seekers program launched last year. Like a refugee, an asylum seeker is an individual with a well-founded fear of being persecuted on the basis of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group or political opinion. They are either physically present in the U.S. or are at a land border or port of entry of the U.S. at the time they seek refuge. It can take several years for an individual’s asylum case to be approved, so I work with our clients and provide them a wide variety of case management services until their case is approved. There is a tremendous need for services for asylum seekers. I enroll 2-3 new cases each week and get them enrolled in our services like legal services, English classes, school enrollment for children, assistance connecting to our mental wellness program and much more. I am also currently building resources and community partners that are willing to help our asylum seekers find housing options in the city, since that is a huge barrier for families who have been admitted legally, but are not allowed to work until they receive their social security cards.
3. How did you hear about Exodus and why did you want to get involved?
After living and working in Indianapolis for several years, I had heard of the amazing accomplishments that Exodus has done. The excellent reputation that Exodus had established came not only from clients but also from other professionals and agencies in the humanitarian field. I knew I wanted to be part of this team!
4. What language(s) do you speak?
German and Spanish
5. What’s one thing you wish more people knew about refugees and other forcibly displaced populations?
According to the UNHCR, 31 people are displaced every minute of every day and 85 % are hosted by developing regions. Germany hosts more than 1.1 million refugees, the greatest numbers coming in recent years from Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq. The United States is number 13 on the list with Lebanon in first place.
6. What do you like to do in your spare time?
I enjoy rowing, hiking, raising chickens, gardening, knitting, and travelling.
