Outreach Worker

📍 Department: Homeless Youth Program
📍 Location: Bellwood, IL

🗓 Schedule: Full-time | Flexible hours based on program needs

Position Overview

Are you passionate about working with adolescents and making a lasting impact in your community? The Homeless Youth Program at Youth Outreach Services (YOS) is seeking a dedicated Homeless Youth Outreach Specialist to support youth ages 18-24 who are homeless or at risk of homelessness.

This role focuses on outreach, case management, and advocacy, helping young people achieve stability and long-term independence.

Key Responsibilities

✅ Youth Outreach & Engagement: Identify and connect with homeless youth in the community who could benefit from YOS services.
✅ Case Management & Support Services: Provide safety assessments, life skills training, education assistance, and resource referrals.
✅ Service Plan Development: Work alongside the Homeless Youth Case Manager to create individualized service plans.
✅ Transitional Living Program Support: Assist youth in transitional housing by facilitating life skills training and educational workshops.
✅ Community Engagement: Educate schools, police departments, and social service agencies about YOS services to strengthen referral pathways.
✅ Networking & Partnerships: Build relationships with local community organizations and resources to better serve the youth population.
✅ Event Participation: Represent YOS at community outreach events and advocacy initiatives.

Why Join Us?

🌟 Gain Hands-On Experience: Perfect for individuals newer to the social services field looking to build experience in case management and community outreach.
💡 Make a Meaningful Impact: Help reduce youth homelessness and prevent young adults from entering adult-based systems.
🤝 Independent & Collaborative Work: Balance working autonomously with engaging in community networking and outreach.
🎉 Engaging Work Environment: Participate in quarterly team-building activities and a supportive, mission-driven culture.

Qualifications

✔ Education: High school diploma/GED required (Some college coursework in human services or related fields is a plus!)
✔ Experience: Previous work in juvenile justice, child welfare, residential programs, homeless youth services, or community outreach preferred.
✔ Skills: Strong interpersonal, advocacy, and communication skills.
✔ Knowledge of Community Resources: Familiarity with local programs and services for at-risk youth is a plus.
✔ Transportation: A valid driver’s license and daily access to a personal vehicle are required.
✔ Bilingual: Spanish language ability preferred but not required.

How to Apply

📩 To Apply: Submit your application with:

Resume
Cover Letter (Optional) explaining why you're interested in this role and how your experience aligns with the position.

📍 Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Apply today and start making a difference!

💼 Ready to make an impact?
Join our mission at YOS and help young people in need find stability and a brighter future! 🚀

Youth Outreach Services is a drug-free workplace and compliance with this policy is a condition of employment and continued employment.

COVID-19 Policy: In compliance with Illinois Executive Order, Youth Outreach Services is requiring all employees to be fully vaccinated against or an approved exemption. Approved exemptions will require weekly testing for COVID-19.

Youth Outreach Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.