Job Title: Case Manager
Location: Hybrid - Northwest Suburbs of Chicago (Townships of Elk Grove, Palatine, Schaumburg, and Wheeling)
Job Type: Part-time, approximately 50 hours per month
Schedule Type: Flexible, dependent upon current caseload needs
Salary Range: $26-$28 per hour
Pay Schedule: Monthly
Anticipated Start Date: May 19, 2025
Reports To: Program Manager
Job Summary:
The Case Manager plays a crucial role in supporting families enrolled in FamilyForward’s 2-year program, ensuring they receive the necessary resources, mentorship, and guidance to achieve success. This position involves family intake, mentor coordination, resource connection, and ongoing family support. The Case Manager will collaborate closely with the program team, mentors, and community partners to foster positive outcomes.
Essential Responsibilities:
Family Intake & Program Assessment
- Conduct applicant interviews with the Program Manager to assess a family’s eligibility and motivation to participate in the program.
- Evaluate applicants' readiness for the program by providing feedback to the Program Manager based on interview findings.
- Assist in the recruitment, training, and assessment of volunteer mentors.
- Assist in matching mentors with families based on compatibility and family needs.
- Accompany mentors during initial family meetings to foster trusting relationships between the mentors and their assigned family.
- Provide ongoing support by maintaining regular contact with mentors to address any concerns or needs.
- Ensure unassigned mentors remain engaged while waiting to be matched with a family.
- Collect and maintain periodic feedback from mentors about their experiences.
- Maintain consistent communication with current and graduated families to assess needs and progress.
- Provide case management for families with more complex situations requiring additional professional support.
- Assist families with development of individualized program goals, budgeting, financial planning, problem-solving strategies, and other interventions.
- Research and connect families with relevant community resources.
- Provide families with essential supplies, including gift cards and pantry items.
- Deliver rent checks and pick up donations, as needed.
- Schedule and facilitate quarterly and final review meetings with families and mentors.
- Review and upload family case files and mentor notes to FamilyForward’s server.
- Collaborate with the Program Manager and Executive Director to discuss family updates and recommend program improvements.
- Provide regular updates to the Program Manager on families’ progress, ensuring they are on track or determining if they need further support.
- Prepare quarterly reports for the Program Manager to be included in materials for the Board of Directors.
- Attend monthly staff meetings.
- Participate in FamilyForward fundraising events and outreach efforts.
- Represent FamilyForward at community education events, as needed.
- Keep current on issues affecting communities in the service area and recommend potential community partnerships.
Education and Experience
- A college degree in social work, psychology, or related field (graduate degree preferred).
- 3 years of case management or direct service experience (5+ years preferred).
- In lieu of a degree, additional relevant experience is acceptable.
- Experience working with individuals from diverse cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds.
- Experience focused on housing stability, financial literacy, and/or mental health is a plus.
- Being multi-lingual is not required but a plus.
- Commitment to FamilyForward’s mission and values.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to build rapport and work effectively with families, mentors, colleagues, and community partners.
- Problem-solving skills and ability to work with individuals facing complex situations.
- Organizational skills to manage scheduling, documentation, and program coordination.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
- Familiarity with community resources and support programs.
- Proficiency in basic budgeting and financial coaching for families.
- Possess competencies in cultural and poverty-related issues.
- Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality.
- Ability to exercise professional judgement to resolve complex issues.
- Proficiency with Microsoft applications and data entry.
- This is a hybrid role. Work schedules are determined by the availability of families and mentors for meetings and their needs. Work from home is permissible, at the discretion of the Program Director and Executive Director.
- FamilyForward has offices in Arlington Heights and Palatine.
- Evening or weekend work will be required at times for family support and community events.
- Ability to travel locally (throughout Northwest suburbs) for meetings, donations, and family visits.
- Option to contribute to a retirement savings plan after 90 days of employment.
- Flexible work schedule.
- Opportunities for professional development.
FamilyForward
Beverly Worthington
