Project WISH Case Manager

Job Summary:

This full-time role within the Housing Program Department focuses on providing comprehensive case management services for participants in the Project WISH Rapid Re-Housing Program. Project WISH offers medium-term rental assistance, supporting single individuals in securing stable housing for up to 24 months, with a best-practice goal of program completion within 12 months. The ideal candidate for this position is highly focused, goal-oriented, and capable of effectively managing a fluctuating caseload based on program needs and participant circumstances.

Job Responsibilities:The following responsibilities outline the general scope of work for this position. Additional duties may be assigned as needed.

• Client Outreach & Eligibility Screening: Conduct outreach to homeless individuals to assess eligibility and interest in the Project WISH Program, including occasional evening visits to shelter sites. Review referrals for program eligibility, ensuring all documentation complies with grant requirements.
• Housing Coordination & Advocacy: Collaborate with the housing locator to match participants with suitable housing. Maintain communication regarding rent payments, delays, or major maintenance concerns, advocating for client needs as necessary.
• Partnership & Compliance: Work closely with partner agencies to ensure grant compliance and resolve common issues. Under the direction of the Rapid Rehousing Manager, monitor grant expenditures to meet monthly and quarterly spending goals.
• Case Management & Life Skills Support: Conduct regular case management meetings to support life skill development and self-sufficiency. Ensure all participants receive at least one monthly check-in to verify income and discuss rent payments. Engage with clients who are not actively participating in case management.
• Action Planning & Documentation: Develop and update individualized action plans in collaboration with clients. Maintain thorough documentation, including case notes and other required records for every client interaction.
• Resource Connection & Advocacy: Link clients to essential community resources such as mental health services, medical care, food pantries, energy assistance, and substance abuse counseling. Stay informed on available services to provide appropriate referrals.
• Rent Calculation & Financial Coordination: Verify and document client income, calculate rent based on HUD guidelines, and submit rent requests promptly. Communicate any rent-related changes or issues with the housing locator and finance office.
• Home Visits & Compliance Monitoring: Conduct in-home visits to ensure compliance with lease agreements and program guidelines. Provide life skills training as needed to support independent living.
• Data Management & Reporting: Accurately track client progress and outcomes in both case files and HMIS, ensuring timely and complete data entry. Submit monthly program reports to the Housing Program Manager and provide success stories as required.
• Emergency Response & Professionalism: Carry the agency-provided emergency phone and respond to calls promptly, addressing urgent situations immediately while directing non-emergency matters to appropriate office hours. Maintain professional boundaries and high-quality customer service.
• Training & Team Collaboration: Participate in required training, meetings, and case staffings with partner agencies. Work collaboratively within the housing department and broader organization to support South Suburban PADS clients, including shelter residents.
• Additional Duties: Perform other related tasks as assigned to support program effectiveness and organizational goals.

Qualifications:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in social services, psychology, sociology, human services, or a related field required.
• Experience: Prior experience in case management, housing assistance, homelessness services, or social work is preferred. Experience working with diverse populations, including individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, or substance use disorders, is highly desirable.
• Language Skills: Bilingual in Spanish/English preferred.
• Knowledge & Skills:
• Strong understanding of housing programs, rapid re-housing models, and HUD guidelines.
• Knowledge of local social service resources, including mental health services, medical care, and financial assistance programs.
• Ability to develop individualized action plans and provide life skills training.
• Strong advocacy skills to support client needs in housing and resource navigation.
• Proficiency in data management and reporting systems, including HMIS.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced, client-focused environment.
• Technical Skills:
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and case management software.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Other Requirements:
• Must have a valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and the ability to conduct home visits.
• Flexibility to work occasional evenings based on program needs.
• Ability to handle emergency situations calmly and efficiently.
• Commitment to maintaining professional boundaries and confidentiality.

South Suburban PADS is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization that is working to prevent and end homelessness in the south suburbs of Chicago. Over the past 30 years, the organization has provided shelter and meals to enable over 19,000 people to survive homelessness. In addition, South Suburban PADS provides pathways home and currently helps over 400 people to preserve or access affordable rental homes every year. South Suburban PADS is the proud recipient of the 2018 Bank of America Neighborhood Builders Award. More at sspads.org

Equal Opportunity: SSPADS is an equal opportunity employer, providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, veteran status, disability, or sexual orientation.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $23.00 - $26.00 per hour

Expected hours: 40 per week

Benefits:

• 403(b)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

Work Location: In person

Salary : $23 - $26