Please submit a resume and brief cover letter to [email protected]. Applications will be accepted through Tuesday, 7/28/2026.
ORGANIZATIONAL BACKGROUND:
INSTEAD (Integrated Navigation Services to End Arrest & Detention) is a program at Ubuntu Village NOLA that focuses on recommending alternatives to prosecution and incarceration through a person-centered, community-based, no-cost diversion program. The program offers participants intensive case management that focuses on fostering trust-based relationships and making connections to quality resources in their communities. We are led by and work alongside those who are most impacted by systemic racism, violence, and incarceration. Together, we’re creating the thriving village we all need and deserve.
JOB DESCRIPTION:
As an Alternatives to Incarceration Social Worker, you will be a case manager on a team that works to off-ramp program participants from the criminal legal system via participation in diversion. INSTEAD uses a coordinated system of assessment to identify youth, young adults, and adults living with Serious Mental Illness and/or Substance Use Disorder who have been arrested in Orleans Parish and are eligible for diversion from incarceration and criminal prosecution. INSTEAD staff are passionate and persistent advocates who focus on participants as unique individuals with dignity and self-determination. An Alternatives to Incarceration Social Worker’s role involves weekly engagement with participants and their families to create tailored service plans, facilitate releases from jail, coordinate referrals, perform wellness checks, and navigate healthcare, social benefits, and legal systems all while thoroughly documenting their work.
JOB DUTIES:
Caseload Management:
- Manages caseload of participants as assigned by the Program Director
- Supports participants’ navigation of social service agencies and various criminal legal system actors, including attending appointments and court dates with participants
- Offers transportation assistance to participants
- Prepares reports and documents regarding participant progress for both criminal legal stakeholders and internal use, including gathering documentation of services from participants and providers
Legal Advocacy:
- Meets with participants and their families at Orleans Justice Center and in the community to complete biopsychosocial intakes and create service plans
- Facilitates participants’ release from jail and connection to appropriate agencies and services
- Prepares monthly status reports for criminal legal system stakeholders
- Collects and reviews participant records and prepare documents supporting diversion advocacy and bail modifications as needed
Program Development:
- Documents their work through the INSTEAD case management system
- Networks and develop relationships with various service providers to better assist our participants and create a network of quality referral sources
- Attends weekly team meetings in-person and engages in case review rounds
- Meets with the Program Director weekly to review and consult on caseload
EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Masters of Social Work (MSW) from accredited program
- Social work license (CSW, RSW, LMSW) active in the state of Louisiana
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Ideal candidates should have at least one year of experience working with youth and young adults
- Ideal candidates should have at least one year of practical experience in working in-community case management, street outreach, peer support, or an equivalent role
- Candidates should be comfortable conducting interviews, assessments, or evaluations with participants and their family members
- Candidates should show a strong interest in working with individuals with complex mental health needs
- Candidates should show an interest in criminal legal system navigation
- Candidates must be interested in and competent at working with underserved and marginalized communities from diverse cultural, racial, and ethnic backgrounds
- Candidates must have a vehicle and be comfortable transporting participants in their vehicles when needed (mileage reimbursement provided)
- Ideal Candidates should have experience gathering medical and other records
- Candidates must have the ability to work independently as well as in a team-driven environment, including working in-person 3+ days a week at our office in the Broadmoor neighborhood
- Candidates must have competent computer skills, including the ability to master case management software, word processors, cloud storage, and Google Cal/Gmail
Position is full-time at 40/hrs weekly and includes PTO plus state, federal, and local holidays, and fully employer-paid health, dental, and vision insurance.
Salary for this position ranges from $55,000-$60,000/year commensurate with experience and licensure.
Pay: $55,000.00 - $60,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply
License/Certification:
- MSW/CSW/RSW/LMSW/LCSW (Required)
Work Location: In person
