Description
Position Summary
The OHM Case Manager provides outreach-driven case management services through the Outreach and Health Ministry (OHM) program. Unlike traditional office-based case management roles, this position actively engages individuals in the community (on the street, at encampments, on outreach vans, and at partner sites) and continues working with them beyond initial contact to complete housing applications, benefits enrollment, and other intensive case management services. This role also develops and maintains quality referral relationships with social service agencies.
General Purpose
This role supports individuals experiencing homelessness or housing instability, many of whom are medically vulnerable, in achieving housing stability and improved health outcomes.
Position Responsibilities
Conduct proactive street outreach through the Health Outreach Bus program, but also through the Street Medicine program, CTA program, Harold Washington Library outreach, and other community-based locations. Shifts may include evenings, weekends, and varied daytime hours. Engage individuals where they are located, build rapport using trauma-informed and harm reduction approaches, and serve as a consistent point of contact. Transition individuals from initial outreach engagement into ongoing, intensive housing case management. Complete housing assessments, applications, and documentation necessary for housing placement and stabilization. Assist clients in obtaining identification, income, benefits, and other documentation required for housing eligibility. Provide follow-up support and navigation through housing placement and stabilization processes. Conduct and/or support Coordinated Entry System (CES) assessments. Serve as (or work toward becoming) a Skilled Assessor within the Coordinated Entry System. Maintain strong working knowledge of Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) processes, eligibility requirements, and housing programs. Collaborate with housing providers, shelters, healthcare providers, and other community partners to support housing placements. Complete accurate and timely data entry in HMIS (Homeless Management Information System) and other required systems (e.g., EHR, ETO). Maintain compliant, audit-ready case files in accordance with government, funder, and agency standards. Develop and maintain referral relationships with social service agencies and housing providers. Resources should cover key needs presented by OHM participants, including but not limited to emergency and transitional housing, health, mental health, and addiction services. Participate in community meetings, needs assessments, case conferencing, and interagency collaborations. Drive outreach vans as scheduled. Support volunteer engagement and represent the program at community events as assigned. Participate in periodic community needs assessments and stay informed about trends impacting people experiencing homelessness in Chicago. Other duties as assigned.
