Senior Reentry Support Specialist

2 weeks ago


Chicago, Illinois, United States SAFER FOUNDATION Full time
Job Overview

The Safer Foundation is dedicated to assisting individuals with arrest and conviction histories. We provide a comprehensive array of services, including case management, educational support, and advocacy, aimed at equipping individuals for successful employment and reintegration into society.

Position Summary:

The Senior Reentry Support Specialist will join an innovative initiative known as the Supportive Reentry Network Collaborative – Healthcare Transformation Collaborative (SRNC-HTC). This pilot program, facilitated by Human and Family Services, empowers community-driven partners to address the social determinants of health through service delivery. The Senior Reentry Support Specialist will be an integral member of a multidisciplinary team focused on cross-system care coordination, integrated referral responses, screening and enrollment, and short-term interventions for returning residents. Responsibilities include outreach, referral responses, brief screenings, case management, and facilitating warm handoffs. The Specialist will be assigned individuals to contact within 24-48 hours of their scheduled release. Initial registration and screening will be conducted to determine the necessary next steps, including immediate interventions during crises or referrals to appropriate programs or providers. An individualized service plan will be crafted to address clients' specific needs, coordinating referrals within the collaborative network. The Specialist will actively participate in integrative staffing and collaborate cross-functionally to deliver holistic, whole-person care.

Performance Expectations:

The role is deemed successful when all essential duties and responsibilities are executed in alignment with the Safer Foundation's core values.

Exceeding Expectations, Communication and Collaboration, Integrity, and Evidence-Based Innovation.

Key Responsibilities:

Stakeholder Engagement and Service Delivery

  • Respond to referrals within 24-48 hours of receipt.
  • Conduct outreach as needed to establish contact, utilizing collateral contacts or other involved parties.
  • Perform initial screenings/assessments for all referrals to identify immediate and short-term needs, considering desired services, geography, client preferences, insurance status, justice supervision status, and other relevant factors.
  • Utilize Salesforce, CareLogic, and/or other databases to register clients.
  • Provide direct coaching, advice, counseling, crisis intervention, and follow-up support to all clients.
  • Assist with Medicaid/SNAP applications and reactivations for individuals recently released or whose benefits have lapsed.
  • Offer assistance in areas such as housing, clothing, physical care, substance use and mental health treatment, legal issues, and basic needs support to facilitate clients' transition back into the community and employment.

Stakeholder Outreach and Recruitment

  • Under managerial guidance, seek, research, negotiate, and establish new partnerships with agencies that are welcoming and sensitive to the needs of formerly incarcerated individuals.
  • Collaborate closely with SRNC community network partners, hotline responders, treatment staff, case managers, and other internal personnel.
  • Occasionally participate in partner and/or funder meetings as directed by the manager.

Documentation, Tracking, and Reporting

  • As clients stabilize, refer them to internal programs for enrollment in employment programming, scheduling intake appointments with appropriate staff and ensuring warm handoffs.
  • Maintain compliance with HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, and other privacy regulations regarding clients' protected information.
  • Attend internal and external multidisciplinary meetings to discuss the collective caseload.
  • Ensure all referrals are followed up with appointment dates and attendance.
  • Complete all contractual obligations accurately and on time.
  • Adhere to all Safer Foundation standards, including productivity benchmarks.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

  • Understanding of common concepts, theories, issues, and best practices related to reentry.
  • Proficiency in computer-based and web-based applications (Microsoft Office, Internet Explorer, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, etc.).
  • Ability to troubleshoot and problem-solve effectively.
  • Capacity to represent the Safer Foundation professionally while building rapport with clients from diverse backgrounds.
  • Strong telephone etiquette and data entry skills.
  • Familiarity with Medicaid in Illinois and other public benefits.
  • Knowledge of community resources for formerly incarcerated individuals.
  • Understanding of IDOC offender search and Cook County Sheriff Inmate Locator.
  • Familiarity with the Application for Benefits Eligibility (ABE) website and Manage My Case function.
  • Knowledge of housing resources and eligibility criteria for various housing types.
  • Skilled in active listening and effective communication.
  • Proficient in social perceptiveness and critical thinking.
  • Skilled in de-escalation techniques and conflict resolution.

Education and Experience:

  • High School Diploma with 3 years of experience in a case management role within a social service environment required. Bachelor's Degree with 2 years of experience preferred.
  • Direct lived experience is preferred.
  • Experience working with individuals recently released from incarceration is preferred.
  • Experience in referring clients to community-based providers and resources.
  • Experience with public benefits applications.
  • Background in substance use/mental health or care coordination is preferred.
  • Experience with virtual platforms (Salesforce, Google, DocuSign, etc.) or a willingness to learn.
  • Knowledge of group behavior, dynamics, and societal trends.
  • Ability to leverage the internet and computer applications for information gathering.
  • Experience using electronic health record systems for documentation and progress notes, with preference for candidates familiar with CareLogic.
  • Strong active listening and effective communication skills.
  • Critical thinking, judgment, and decision-making skills.
  • In-depth knowledge of ASAM Patient Placement Criteria and CANS, ANSA, or IM-CANS assessments.
  • Thorough understanding of HIPAA, 42 CFR Part 2, and Rule 2060 governing substance use treatment services in Illinois; knowledge of Rule 132 is a plus.

Licenses and Certifications: Certification as a CADC is desirable but not mandatory.

Safer Foundation is a drug-free workplace.

Equal Opportunity Employer/Affirmative Action/Minorities/Females/Veterans

No Phone Calls Please



  • Chicago, Illinois, United States SAFER FOUNDATION Full time

    Job OverviewSafer Foundation is dedicated to assisting individuals with arrest and conviction histories. We provide a comprehensive suite of services, including case management, educational support, and advocacy, aimed at equipping individuals for successful employment and reintegration into society.Position Summary:The Pre-Release Reentry Navigator is an...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States SAFER FOUNDATION Full time

    Job OverviewSafer Foundation is dedicated to assisting individuals with arrest and conviction histories. We provide a comprehensive array of services, including case management, educational support, and advocacy, aimed at equipping individuals for successful employment and reintegration into society.Position Summary:The Pre-Release Reentry Navigator is an...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States SAFER FOUNDATION Full time

    Job OverviewSafer Foundation is dedicated to assisting individuals with arrest and conviction histories. We provide a comprehensive suite of services, including case management, educational programs, and advocacy, aimed at equipping individuals for successful employment and reintegration into society.Position Summary:The Pre-Release Reentry Navigator is an...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States Safer Foundation Full time

    Job SummaryThe Safer Foundation is a leading social service provider dedicated to supporting individuals with arrest and conviction records. Our mission is to empower individuals to achieve productive and meaningful employment through a range of services, including case management, educational instruction, and advocacy.Job DescriptionJob Title: Pre-Release...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States SAFER FOUNDATION Full time

    Job OverviewThe Safer Foundation is dedicated to providing essential services to individuals with arrest and conviction histories. Our comprehensive approach includes case management, educational support, and advocacy, all aimed at equipping individuals for successful employment.Position Summary:Under the supervision of the Employment Manager, the Reentry...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States TASC Full time

    Position OverviewAt TASC (Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities), we are dedicated to fostering a healthier, safer, and more equitable society. Since our inception in 1976, we have been driven by the conviction that every individual possesses the capacity for positive transformation. Our mission is to advocate for, support, and empower individuals to...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States TASC Full time

    Position OverviewAt TASC (Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities), we are dedicated to fostering a healthier, safer, and more equitable society. Since our inception in 1976, we have upheld the belief that every individual possesses the potential for meaningful transformation. Our mission is to advocate for, support, and empower individuals to overcome...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States TASC Full time

    Position OverviewAt TASC (Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities), we are dedicated to fostering a healthier, safer, and more equitable society. Our mission, since 1976, is rooted in the belief that every individual possesses the capacity for positive transformation. We advocate for, support, and empower individuals to overcome obstacles, achieve...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States Markel Service Inc. Full time

    About the RoleWe are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Senior Underwriting Support Specialist to join our team at Markel Service Inc. As a key member of our underwriting team, you will play a critical role in supporting the underwriting process and ensuring the smooth operation of our business.Key ResponsibilitiesAct as a primary point of contact...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States AIDS Foundation Chicago Full time

    Position Overview The Senior Specialist in Supportive Housing Services will oversee the supportive housing initiatives at the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC), which are financed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This role encompasses the management of HUD's Housing Opportunities for People with AIDS (HOPWA) programs, as well as...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States AIDS Foundation Chicago Full time

    Position Overview The Senior Specialist in Supportive Housing Services will oversee the supportive housing initiatives at the AIDS Foundation of Chicago (AFC) that are funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). This includes managing HUD's Housing Opportunities for People with AIDS (HOPWA) programs, as well as collaborating with...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States RWE AG Full time

    Position Overview:We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Senior Executive Support Specialist to join our dynamic team. This role is crucial in providing high-level administrative assistance to our Senior Leadership Team.Key Responsibilities:Independently organize and facilitate meetings, conferences, and events.Manage and coordinate the calendars of...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States Markel Service Inc. Full time

    About the RoleWe are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Senior Underwriting Support Specialist to join our team at Markel Service Inc. As a key member of our underwriting team, you will play a critical role in supporting the underwriting process and ensuring the smooth operation of our business.Key ResponsibilitiesAct as a primary point of contact...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States KYYBA Full time

    Job OverviewPosition Title: Senior Customer Support SpecialistCompensation Range: $17-$20/hrEmployment Type: 6-month W2 (potential for extension)Work Arrangement: Hybrid (3 days in-office, 2 days remote) – coordination with the current department is essential for coverageWe are seeking a dedicated professional to engage with third parties to verify that...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States Fourth Floor Full time

    Job Summary: Fourth Floor is seeking a highly skilled and organized Executive Support Specialist to join our team in a contracted role. As an Executive Support Specialist, you will provide administrative support to our senior leadership team, ensuring seamless day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives.Key Responsibilities:Calendar Management: Maintain...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States Cook County Sheriff's Office Full time

    Overview The Reintegration Care Specialist, under the guidance of the Deputy Director of the Community Resource Center, serves as a case manager for treatment and reentry programs associated with the Cook County Sheriff's Office (CCSO). This position necessitates close collaboration with individuals in custody, community corrections participants, their...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States Cook County Sheriff's Office Full time

    Overview The Reintegration Care Specialist, under the guidance of the Deputy Director of the Community Resource Center, will serve as a care and case manager for treatment and reentry programs. This position requires close collaboration with individuals in custody, community corrections participants, their families, and various community partners. A...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States Forfreshers Full time

    Position Overview: Forfreshers is seeking a dedicated and skilled Senior Bilingual Customer Support Specialist to enhance our customer service team. This role is essential in providing exceptional support to our clients while ensuring a positive experience.Key Responsibilities:Handle and address customer inquiries through an inbound call system or email...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States TASC Full time

    Job OverviewAbout TASC: TASC is dedicated to assisting individuals involved in the judicial, correctional, and family service systems throughout Illinois. Our mission is to help these individuals transition beyond their current circumstances, rebuild their lives, and connect with positive community resources. By joining TASC, you become part of a dedicated...


  • Chicago, Illinois, United States Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago Full time

    Job SummaryThe Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago is seeking a skilled Desktop Support Specialist to join our team. As a key member of our IT department, you will be responsible for providing technical support and maintenance for our desktop environments.Key ResponsibilitiesDeploy and install applications to desktop environments,...