Part-Time 2nd Shift Residential Outreach Worker

Lawndale Christian Legal Center•Chicago, IL

3d•Onsite

About The Position

The Dr. Dennis Deer Community Justice Center is seeking a dedicated and resourceful Residential Outreach Worker (ROW) to provide support, mentorship, and guidance to young men ages 18-25. This role combines relationship-building with proactive safety and cultural support, helping create a safe, structured, and positive environment for all residents. You’ll engage with participants before they arrive, prepare for their unique needs, provide transportation, diffuse street conflicts, participate in mediation, and ensure the center operates as a place for personal growth and healing. This role will support the daily operations of the center, teach life skills, set up meals, engage residents in healthy activities, and work alongside case managers to keep residents on track.

Requirements

Experience working with or mentoring high-risk or justice-involved individuals, particularly in a community or residential setting.
Familiarity with trauma-informed care, conflict mediation, and restorative justice practices is a strong advantage.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills—you can build trust and relate to people from all walks of life.
Proven ability to diffuse conflicts, mediate disputes, and navigate tense situations.
Highly organized with strong attention to detail, especially when conducting research or managing safety plans.
A valid driver’s license and clean driving record (you’ll provide transportation for residents).
Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and on-call as needed.
A genuine passion for supporting and empowering young men in their personal growth.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of local resources and services relevant to justice-involved individuals.
Background in supporting at-risk populations
Preference for those with lived experience or recent criminal justice involvement

Responsibilities

Conduct thorough research on incoming participants to understand their backgrounds, needs, and potential risks.
Collaborate with case managers and leadership to develop tailored strategies for successful integration into the center.
Build meaningful relationships with residents, offering guidance and encouragement.
Be a consistent presence they can trust, helping them navigate challenges and celebrate successes.
Assist residents with day-to-day needs and provide cultural support to ensure they feel safe and respected.
Set up and serve meals, ensuring a welcoming and respectful mealtime atmosphere.
Support and/or teach life skills such as cooking, budgeting, time management, and conflict resolution.
Organize and lead healthy, engaging activities that promote teamwork, growth, and self-improvement.
Participate in mediations to resolve conflicts within the center or in residents’ personal lives.
Work collaboratively to create and execute safety plans for participants facing external threats or risks.
De-escalate tensions and address conflicts with a focus on restorative justice and long-term solutions.
Provide transportation to appointments, interviews, and other essential activities, ensuring accessibility and reliability.
Support case managers in monitoring residents’ progress and encouraging accountability.
Attend community events that would help foster community and collaboration
support the Community Holistic Defense (CHD) in their community efforts and events.
Collaborate with staff to address resident needs, develop programming, and maintain a structured, supportive environment.
Participate in regular interdisciplinary meetings to share insights and contribute to program strategies.