Advocacy and Engagement Specialist
About The Position
La Casa Norte is seeking a compassionate, community-centered, and highly organized Advocacy and Engagement Specialist to join the Illinois Welcoming Center (IWC) team. The IWC is a comprehensive service center dedicated to integrating immigrants and refugees in Illinois by eliminating systemic barriers to services, resources, and opportunities. The Specialist provides direct client support through case management, crisis intervention, public benefits navigation, community outreach, and enrollment assistance for community-based and public service programs. The role supports individuals and families experiencing housing instability, economic hardship, immigration-related barriers, and other systemic challenges by connecting them with critical services and resources. The Specialist also supports outreach and enrollment initiatives for City, State, and community-based programs. Activities include educational outreach, eligibility screening, document collection, staffing mobile enrollment events, and coordination with community stakeholders and government partners. The work requires trauma-informed care, culturally responsive engagement, and community-centered service delivery. It combines office-based work, community fieldwork, and mobile outreach throughout Chicago, with occasional evening and weekend activities. Primary office locations are Humboldt Park and Brighton Park.
Requirements
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in case management, outreach, advocacy, enrollment services, or human services.
- Experience working with diverse and vulnerable populations.
- Bilingual in English and Spanish required.
- Strong communication, organizational, and relationship-building skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, databases, and online systems.
- Valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and reliable vehicle required.
- Ability to stand for extended periods and lift outreach/event materials up to 25 pounds.
- Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, Community Development, Public Administration, or a related field preferred; an equivalent combination of relevant work, lived, and professional experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with public benefits enrollment, housing programs, or government-funded initiatives.
- Knowledge of Chicago community resources and social service systems.
- Experience working within trauma-informed and culturally responsive environments.
- Familiarity with outreach reporting and data tracking systems.
Responsibilities
- Conduct comprehensive intake assessments to identify client strengths, needs, barriers, and service goals.
- Develop individualized service and care plans in collaboration with clients.
- Provide ongoing case management, advocacy, follow-up support, and service coordination.
- Maintain accurate and timely client documentation, case notes, and records.
- Help clients navigate housing, healthcare, legal, employment, education, and social service systems.
- Assist clients with applications for rental assistance, public benefits, and other supportive resources.
- Respond to clients experiencing crisis by providing immediate support and intervention.
- Develop crisis response and safety plans tailored to client needs.
- Advocate for clients with landlords, schools, healthcare providers, government agencies, and community organizations.
- Educate and guide clients in navigating complex systems.
- Facilitate workshops and informational sessions on housing stability, benefits, and wellness.
- Conduct outreach and educational activities throughout Chicago communities.
- Promote organizational programs and enrollment opportunities through presentations, workshops, outreach campaigns, and printed materials.
- Build and maintain collaborative relationships with community organizations, schools, healthcare providers, local businesses, and government agencies.
- Conduct targeted outreach to underserved populations.
- Represent La Casa Norte at community meetings and public events.
- Assist community members with applications, eligibility screening, and document verification.
- Educate residents about program requirements and available community resources.
- Support clients using online application systems and digital enrollment platforms.
- Provide language access and culturally responsive assistance.
- Ensure confidentiality and compliance with data collection and privacy standards.
- Participate in mobile outreach and community service events.
- Provide operational support during enrollment events, workshops, and resource activities.
- Assist with event setup, participant engagement, logistics, and information distribution.
- Support evening and weekend outreach and enrollment events as needed.
- Maintain accurate records of outreach activities, client services, referrals, and enrollment assistance.
- Track and report program metrics and outcomes.
- Prepare reports for funders, leadership, and partner agencies.
- Participate in trainings, staff meetings, and partnership meetings.
- Use data and client feedback to improve service delivery.
Benefits
- 14 vacation days annually
- 7 personal days annually
- 10 paid holidays
- 6 sick days annually
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 403(b) retirement savings plan
- Employer-paid life and long-term disability insurance
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
