Position Summary
The Advocate Coordinator / Unassigned Case Manager provides direct advocacy and case management support for children involved in the child welfare and court systems in Edgar County. This position serves a dual role by supporting, supervising, and retaining CASA volunteers while also directly managing and advocating on behalf of children who have not yet been assigned a volunteer advocate. The Advocate Coordinator / Unassigned Case Manager plays a critical role in ensuring timely advocacy, case progress, and positive outcomes for children experiencing abuse or neglect.
Employment Status
- Part-Time: Approximately 20 hours per week
- Non-Exempt/Hourly
- Based in Edgar County, Illinois
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Advocate Coordination & Volunteer Support
- Recruit, support, supervise, and retain CASA volunteers serving children in Edgar County
- Maintain regular communication with volunteers to provide case consultation, encouragement, and problem-solving support
- Monitor volunteer case activity and ensure timely submission of court reports and documentation
- Assist with volunteer recognition and retention efforts
Unassigned Case Management & Child Advocacy
- Provide direct advocacy and case management for children awaiting assignment to a CASA volunteer advocate
- Maintain consistent contact with children, caregivers, schools, service providers, and other relevant parties to monitor child well-being and case progress
- Conduct case-related visits and gather information to support best-interest advocacy
- Participate in case staffing meetings as appropriate
- Prepare and submit court reports, recommendations, and case documentation in a timely manner
- Collaborate with legal professionals, child welfare staff, schools, healthcare providers, and community partners to support child outcomes
Case Management & Documentation
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date case files, ensuring documentation is complete, organized, and compliant with organizational, court, and National CASA standards
- Utilize Optima case management software to maintain case notes, contacts, court dates, and documentation
- Review court materials, case records, and service plans to monitor case progress and identify child needs
- Maintain confidentiality standards and ensure secure handling of sensitive information
- Coordinate and track case assignments, case activity, and case deadlines
Community Outreach & Program Development
- Assist with outreach, volunteer recruitment efforts, and community engagement opportunities as needed
- Help support local volunteer appreciation and fundraising activities as needed
- Foster relationships with courts, agencies, schools, and community stakeholders to strengthen CASA services in Edgar County
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree preferred in social work, human services, criminal justice, education, psychology, or related field; relevant experience may be considered in lieu of degree
- Experience in child welfare, social services, education, legal, nonprofit, or advocacy-related settings preferred
- Strong interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a community-based environment
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment in sensitive situations
- Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and ability to travel locally throughout Edgar County and surrounding areas
Preferred Qualities
- Passion for child advocacy and serving vulnerable children
- Strong relationship-building and volunteer support skills
- Ability to work collaboratively with volunteers, courts, service providers, and community partners
- Strong attention to detail, documentation, and follow-through
- Ability to balance direct-service responsibilities with volunteer coordination
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit, stand, bend, and occasionally lift up to 10 pounds
- Ability to travel locally for court, case visits, meetings, trainings, and community outreach activities
Pay: $26.25 per hour
Benefits:
Work Location: In person
