Community Outreach Specialist
$50,000–$50,000 year
On-siteChicago, Illinois, United States
Job Summary
Conduct street outreach in encampments, parks, and community centers to build trusting relationships with individuals experiencing homelessness. Perform Coordinated Entry (CE) assessments, enter participants into housing waitlists, and obtain Housing Resource Specialist (HRS) credentials to connect clients to stable housing. Deliver case management services including advocacy, crisis intervention, and problem-solving while coordinating healthcare, mental health, and substance use treatment. Maintain accurate HMIS data entry, client records, and service plan updates in alignment with agency policies. This field-based role requires a valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and the ability to work outdoors. The position supports Street Samaritans' mission to intervene in cycles of homelessness and poverty by empowering individuals toward self-sufficiency.
Required Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Valid driver's license
- Reliable transportation to travel throughout the city of Chicago
- Minimum of 1–2 years of experience in street outreach or working with individuals facing substance use challenges
- Minimum of 1-2 years of experience working with individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health conditions, or substance use disorders
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Ability to build trusting relationships with clients
- Ability to work collaboratively with a team of service providers
- Ability to conduct outreach in a variety of settings, including on the street, in shelters, and in other community-based locations
- Knowledge of community resources
- Experience navigating complex systems to support clients in accessing needed services
- Strong problem-solving skills
- Ability to develop and implement individualized service plans
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment
- Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks and deadlines
- Commitment to social justice and equity
- Ability to work with individuals from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds
- Ability to work outdoors
- Ability to participate in required team meetings and training sessions
Desired Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Addiction Studies, or a related field
- Lived experience
- Housing First Approach
- Harm Reduction
- Trauma Informed Practices
- Proficiency in Google Workspace suite
- Experience with database management
- Experience with case management software
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