Community Outreach Manager

Anixter Center•Chicago, IL

8d•$65,000 - $80,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Community Outreach Manager represents Anixter Center to schools and agencies that support young people and adults with IDD and mental health needs. The role builds and sustains referral networks that connect individuals and families to transition and community-based services, and ensures referrals result in successful connections. The Manager serves as the primary point of contact for Special Education Teachers, Transition Schools, Integrated Community Supports agencies (ISCs), Community Service Organizations (CSOs), and Community Alternative Unlimited units (CAUs) across Chicagoland, partnering closely with Intake, Case Management, program staff, and Marketing/Communications. This is a full-time, exempt role based in Chicago, with regular local travel throughout the Chicagoland area. A flexible schedule is required and may include evenings and weekends as necessary.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Education, Human Services, Public Health, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience (preferred).
At least 2 years of experience in community outreach, community development, referral or care coordination, case management, special education, or transition services (preferred).
Working knowledge of Illinois IDD and/or mental health service systems, including ISCs, CSOs, and CAUs.
Familiarity with PUNS (Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Services) and the IEP/transition planning process.
Excellent relationship-building, networking, and communication skills, including confidence engaging school administrators, educators, and agency partners.
Strong organizational skills and experience with a CRM or referral-tracking database.
Valid driver's license and willingness to travel locally throughout Chicagoland.
Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as necessary.
Genuine commitment to nonprofit, mission-driven work.

Nice To Haves

An existing network in Chicagoland special education, transition schools, or DHS/DRS-affiliated service coordination agencies.
Experience working with individuals who are Deaf, DeafBlind, or Hard of Hearing; ASL is a plus.
Experience with nonprofit, healthcare, or education-adjacent partnerships.

Responsibilities

Build and grow a referral pipeline by developing lasting relationships with Special Education Teachers, Transition Schools, ISCs, CSOs, and CAUs.
Conduct outreach through site visits, presentations, and one-on-one meetings with school staff, coordinators, and case managers.
Represent Anixter Center at IEP/transition planning meetings, school fairs, community events, and networking functions to raise awareness of its programs.
Provide information about transition, IDD, mental health, and Deaf/DeafBlind/Hard of Hearing services, including eligibility, intake, and program fit.
Establish and maintain referral pathways with partners, documenting referral procedures, contacts, and what to expect at each step.
Track referrals from first contact through enrollment in the CRM and follow up with partners and families to close the loop.
Coordinate with Intake, Case Management, and program staff to ensure smooth referral handoffs.
Develop outreach materials with Marketing/Communications, monitor referral trends and outcomes, and share insights about service gaps, underserved communities, and partnership opportunities with leadership.