Intake Service Coordinator

VOA Illinois•Chicago, IL

11d•Hybrid

About The Position

Intake Service & Coordination serves as the primary point of entry into VOA Illinois Client Services and provides short-term transition support for newly enrolled participants in the Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program. This position ensures that clients receive timely access to appropriate programs through comprehensive eligibility screening, coordinated enrollment, program orientation, and structured engagement during the critical first ninety (90) days of participation. Clients are connected to the services and resources necessary to support successful program engagement. We provide: A centralized point of access to help clients understand and navigate available VOA Illinois programs and services. Individualized guidance to help clients identify services that align with their needs and circumstances. Support throughout the intake and enrollment process to promote timely and coordinated access to services. Connections across VOA Illinois programs to help clients access additional services and supports when appropriate. Short-term transition support for newly enrolled SSVF participants during their initial 90 days of participation. Coordination with program staff to promote continuity of care and a smooth transition into ongoing services. Assistance navigating available services and understanding next steps throughout the process. Our goal is to provide clients with a clear and coordinated pathway into VOA Illinois services, reduce barriers to access, and ensure they are successfully connected and transitioned to the programs and supports that best meet their needs.

Requirements

Must meet minimum requirements as a Mental Health Professional (MHP) in the State of Illinois: a bachelor's degree; OR a practical nurse license under the Nurse Practice Act [225 ILCS 65]; OR a certificate of psychiatric rehabilitation from a DHS-approved program plus a high school diploma plus 2 years of experience in providing mental health services; OR a recovery support specialist certified and in good standing with the Illinois Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Professional Certification Association, Inc., plus one year experience in providing mental health services; OR an occupational therapy assistant licensed under the Illinois Occupational Therapy Practice Act [225 ILCS 75] with at least one year of experience in a mental health setting; OR a minimum of 5 years of supervised experience in mental health or human services. (A supervised internship in a mental health setting counts toward the experience in providing mental health services).
Experience in counseling, crisis intervention, substance abuse/mental health issues, and familiarity with community resources is essential.
Must possess a valid State of Illinois driver’s license.
Requires a person with flexibility to work day and evening hours, including weekends and holidays as needed.
May at times work in harsh weather conditions in the performance of his or her duties.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with local social service resources
Experience in advocacy, intake, or care coordination
Experience supporting veterans and military-connected individuals

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary point of contact for clients seeking services through VOA Illinois and provide information regarding available programs, eligibility requirements, participant expectations, and next steps.
Conduct eligibility screenings and intake assessments and determine program eligibility in accordance with agency policies, funder requirements, and applicable regulations.
Complete enrollment documentation and collect, review, and verify required supporting documentation, releases, and eligibility information within established timeframes.
Connect clients to appropriate programs and services based on eligibility and identified needs.
Manage assigned SSVF Rapid Rehousing and designated Homeless Prevention participants during the initial ninety (90) days of enrollment, including required assessments, service planning, documentation, service coordination, and transition to the permanent SSVF team.
Utilize trauma-informed care, active listening, and conflict de-escalation strategies when supporting clients
Complete accurate and timely documentation in EchoVantage, HMIS, and other required databases
Collaborate with VOA Illinois staff, vendors, and community partners to ensure coordinated service delivery
Manage assigned caseloads with strong organization, time management, and responsible stewardship of agency resources
Exhibit cultural competence while serving clients of diverse backgrounds and commit to expanding knowledge and understanding of different communities and people groups