SOCIAL WORKER-JUSTICE SUPPORT SERVICES RE-ENTRY PROGRAM

La Crosse County • La Crosse, WI

89d • Onsite

About The Position

The Justice Support Services Social Worker (Reentry) provides assertive case management that includes proactive outreach, frequent client contact, and hands-on coordinator of services to justice-involved clients incarcerated in the La Crosse County Jail. This role focuses on preparing individuals for a safe and successful return to the community by addressing medical, mental health, substance use, housing, employment, and other social service needs. The majority of the workday will be spent in the jail setting.

Requirements

• Graduation from an accredited college or university with a major in Social Work (or related degree such as Sociology, Psychology, or Criminal Justice).
• State of Wisconsin Social Worker certification required. If not certified at time of application, applicants must have applied for a Temporary or Training Certificate and obtain regular Certification within specified time limits.
• Basic computer keyboarding and data entry skills.
• A valid driver’s license and access to personal transportation (or other reliable means) for city and rural travel is required.
• Flexibility in scheduling to meet program and jail operational needs.

Nice To Haves

• Strong preference for at least one year of responsible social work experience working with co-occurring disorders and substance abuse, knowledge of the criminal justice system and familiarity with mental health services.

Responsibilities

• Conduct risk, needs, and pre-release assessments with incarcerated clients to identify strengths and barriers.
• Develop individualized, strength-based case plans that include relapse prevention, crisis planning, and supports for successful transition.
• Coordinate and secure necessary services and resources such as medical care, behavioral health, substance use treatment, housing, employment, and vocational supports.
• Assist clients in obtaining identification, vital records, and other required documents (e.g., State ID, Social Security card, birth certificate).
• Arrange transportation and release logistics to ensure immediate access to services upon release.
• Maintain consistent contact with clients, providing warm handoffs to community-based workers or service providers.
• Provide case management for individuals with mental health, substance use, or co-occurring disorders, ensuring accurate documentation, and monitoring of individual case plans.
• Facilitate in-jail programming, including skill-building groups and programming to support readiness for reentry.
• Educate clients about available community resources, navigating reentry challenges, and overcoming barriers related to criminal history.
• Support clients in setting and achieving realistic personal and treatment goals.
• Maintain communication with attorneys, courts, probation/parole, and community providers.
• Collaborate with jail administrators and staff, law enforcement, and neighboring jurisdictions to promote information sharing and coordinated client support.
• Secure, coordinate, and monitor services from other agencies and professionals to ensure continuity of care.
• Develop, implement, and review written procedures to ensure program compliance, service quality, and accurate documentation of progress.
• Monitor client progress post-release up to 60 days until a warm hand occurs to a community provider and adapt case plans to reduce recidivism and promote long-term stability.
• May occasionally work outside standard business hours (8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.) to meet client or program needs.

Benefits

• Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS): A top-rated pension program.
• Affordable Insurance Premiums: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
• Generous Paid Time Off: Vacation, sick, and 10+ paid holidays annually.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible schedules and wellness programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees