LGBTQ Life Skills Educator (Lakewood)

Lawrence Hall•Chicago, IL

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Lawrence Hall is a Chicago-based nonprofit social services agency providing therapeutic, wellness, and skill-development services to youth, families, and communities affected by trauma. Lawrence Hall fosters a culture built upon the principles of the Children and Residential Experiences (CARE) model and the core values of Respect, Empowerment, Safety, and Teamwork. Together, these principles are embedded throughout our trauma-informed philosophy and guide how we serve youth and families, support one another as colleagues, and partner with our community. Our Lakewood Group Home provides an affirming, structured, and supportive environment for LGBTQIA+ youth ages 14–17. Our team helps young people build life skills, manage emotions, develop healthy relationships, and feel safe being themselves. As an LGBTQ Life Skills Educator, you will provide direct care, supervision, and trauma-informed support to six LGBTQIA+ youth living in the Lakewood Group Home. You will serve as a positive role model while helping youth develop independent-living skills, connect with supportive resources, and work toward their treatment goals. This is a great opportunity for someone who is passionate about affirming LGBTQIA+ youth and creating a safe, welcoming environment where every young person can thrive.

Requirements

Must be at least 21 years old with an associate degree or at least 60 college credit hours in Human Services or a related field. Candidates without an associate degree or 60 college credit hours must be at least 25 years old.
Valid Illinois driver's license.
Ability to pass all required background checks and drug screenings.
No history of child abuse or neglect.

Nice To Haves

At least one year of experience working with older youth in a child welfare or residential setting.
Experience supporting LGBTQIA+ youth as an ally or through lived experience.
Familiarity with DCFS policies, trauma-informed care, and community-based support systems.
LGBTQIA+ applicants and individuals with relevant lived experience are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities

Provide direct supervision, trauma-informed support, and a safe, affirming environment for LGBTQIA+ youth.
Teach life skills such as cooking, nutrition, shopping, cleaning, self-care, emotional regulation, and healthy relationship-building.
Facilitate groups, document services, transport youth, and collaborate with families, team members, and community partners.

Benefits

Medical insurance – HMO and PPO options
Dental insurance – HMO and PPO options
Vision insurance
401(k) with up to 5% employer match and auto-vesting
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) – Medical and Dependent Care
Pre-tax commuter benefits – Parking and Transit
100% employer-paid Basic Life and AD&D Insurance
Voluntary Life Insurance for employees, spouses, and children
Accident and Critical Illness Insurance
Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
100% employer-paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for free counseling and life resources
Wellness Reimbursement Program
Employee Referral Bonus up to $1,500
Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for licensed employees
Public Service Loan Forgiveness