Job Title: Advocacy and Engagement Specialist
Reports To: Community Assistance Program Manager
Salary Range: $48,424 - $51,515
La Casa Norte’s mission is to serve youth and families confronting homelessness. We provide access to stable housing and deliver comprehensive services that act as a catalyst to transform lives and communities.
La Casa Norte is seeking a compassionate, community-centered, and highly organized Advocacy and Engagement Specialist to join the Illinois Welcoming Center (IWC) team. The Illinois Welcoming Center is a comprehensive service center dedicated to integrating immigrants and refugees in Illinois by eliminating systemic barriers to accessing services, resources, and opportunities.
The Advocacy and Engagement Specialist will provide direct client support through case management, crisis intervention, public benefits navigation, community outreach, and enrollment assistance for various community-based and public service programs. This position will support individuals and families experiencing housing instability, economic hardship, immigration-related barriers, and other systemic challenges by connecting them to critical services and resources.
The Specialist will also support outreach and enrollment initiatives for City, State, and community-based programs by conducting educational activities, assisting residents with eligibility screening and document collection, staffing mobile enrollment events, and coordinating with community stakeholders and government partners.
This role requires a strong understanding of trauma-informed care, culturally responsive engagement, and community-centered service delivery. The position includes office-based work, community fieldwork, and participation in mobile outreach events throughout Chicago neighborhoods, including occasional evening and weekend activities.
- Conduct comprehensive intake assessments to identify client strengths, needs, barriers, and service goals.
- Develop individualized service and care plans in collaboration with clients.
- Provide ongoing case management, advocacy, follow-up support, and service coordination.
- Maintain accurate and timely client documentation, case notes, and records.
- Assist clients in navigating housing, healthcare, legal, employment, education, and social service systems.
- Support clients with applications for rental assistance, public benefits, and other supportive resources.
- Respond to clients experiencing crisis situations by providing immediate support and intervention services.
- Develop crisis response and safety plans tailored to client needs.
- Advocate on behalf of clients with landlords, schools, healthcare providers, government agencies, and community organizations.
- Empower clients by providing education and guidance to navigate complex systems.
- Facilitate workshops and informational sessions related to housing stability, benefits, and wellness.
- Conduct outreach and educational activities throughout Chicago communities.
- Promote organizational programs and enrollment opportunities through presentations, workshops, outreach campaigns, and printed materials.
- Build and maintain collaborative relationships with community organizations, schools, healthcare providers, local businesses, and government agencies.
- Conduct targeted outreach to underserved populations.
- Represent La Casa Norte at community meetings and public events.
- Assist community members with applications, eligibility screening, and document verification.
- Educate residents about program requirements and available community resources.
- Support clients with online application systems and digital enrollment platforms.
- Provide language access and culturally responsive assistance.
- Ensure confidentiality and compliance with data collection and privacy standards.
- Participate in mobile outreach and community service events.
- Provide operational support during enrollment events, workshops, and resource activities.
- Assist with event setup, participant engagement, logistics, and information distribution.
- Support evening and weekend outreach and enrollment events as needed.
- Maintain accurate records of outreach activities, client services, referrals, and enrollment assistance.
- Track and report program metrics and outcomes.
- Prepare reports for funders, leadership, and partner agencies.
- Participate in trainings, staff meetings, and partnership meetings.
- Use data and client feedback to improve service delivery.
- Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, Community Development, Public Administration, or related field preferred; equivalent combination of relevant work, lived, and professional experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.
- Minimum of 2 years of experience in case management, outreach, advocacy, enrollment services, or human services.
- Experience working with diverse and vulnerable populations.
- Bilingual in English and Spanish required.
- Strong communication, organizational, and relationship-building skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, databases, and online systems.
- Valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and reliable vehicle required.
- Experience with public benefits enrollment, housing programs, or government-funded initiatives.
- Knowledge of Chicago community resources and social service systems.
- Experience working within trauma-informed and culturally responsive environments.
- Familiarity with outreach reporting and data tracking systems.
- Combination of office-based work, community fieldwork, and mobile outreach throughout Chicago.
- Primary office locations include Humboldt Park and Brighton Park.
- Occasional evening and weekend hours required.
- Ability to stand for extended periods and lift outreach/event materials up to 25 pounds.
- 14 vacation days annually
- 7 personal days annually
- 10 paid holidays
- 6 sick days annually
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 403(b) retirement savings plan
- Employer-paid life and long-term disability insurance
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
This position is represented by the Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU), Local 39.
La Casa Norte is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, veteran status, national origin, pregnancy or related conditions, or disability.
