Homeless Outreach Worker

The Thresholds Homeless Outreach Program (HOP) was established in 1989 to provide assertive outreach, linkage to primary and psychiatric care, and resource referral to persons experiencing homelessness with serious mental illnesses. The program employs the skills of licensed clinical social workers on the streets, in shelters, and any other location where people who are homeless may be found. We are Chicago’s only citywide mental health homeless outreach program, and our primary goal is simple: to get people living with mental illnesses off the street and help them recover and regain their lives. We believe it is not enough to simply be available to the people who need our services – we need to bring our services to them.

JOB SUMMARY

The Outreach Worker will work collaboratively on a team to outreach and engage unhoused individuals in the community experiencing serious mental illness in order to assess and provide linkage services to housing, benefits, treatment, advocacy, and other identified needs. Additionally, the Outreach Worker will work to develop and implement a member-driven service plan in collaboration with member and outreach team in order to meet identified goals.

To succeed in this role, you need:

• Effective communication and relationship-building
• Good writing skills
• Strong time management and organization
• To be at least 21 years old
• A valid driver’s license, current car insurance, and daily access to your own car
• Willingness to provide transportation to clients

Many education and experience paths are eligible for this role:

• High school diploma or GED certificate and 5 years of supervised clinical experience
• Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, or related field
• Bachelor’s degree in an unrelated field and 2 years of supervised clinical experience
• Master’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, or related field

What sets Thresholds apart:

• Competitive pay - Base Salary: $44,200-$53,000
• Subject to increase based on education and experience
• Generous PTO (9 federal holidays, 8 days of sick leave, 15-22 days personal and vacation)
• Dental insurance, vision insurance, 4 medical insurance plans
• 403(b) retirement plan with 3% employer match
• Robust employee assistance program (EAP)
• Mileage reimbursement
• Public service loan forgiveness
• Supervision for clinical licensure at no cost (LSW, LCSW, LPC, LCPC)

Covid-19 Note: In the spirit of caring for one another and our community, please note that upon accepting an offer of employment from Thresholds, you will be required to share proof of a COVID-19 vaccination. You may apply for a Medical or Religious Exemption in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.