Community Connections Specialist

# Community Connections Specialist (Child Welfare Services) **Location:** Joliet, IL **Service Area:** Northern Region – Will, Grundy, and Kankakee Counties **Compensation:** **$24.00 – $25.00/hour** ## Make a Meaningful Impact on Children and Families At Aunt Martha's Health & Wellness, we support children and families by meeting them where they are and helping them move forward safely. Our work is rooted in equity, access, and compassion—providing early intervention and community-based support that strengthens families and protects children. If you're motivated by purpose-driven work and want to make a direct impact in your community, this role offers meaningful, hands-on experience with real outcomes. ## Position Summary The **Community Connections Specialist** plays a key role within the Child Welfare Services (CWS) Referral Program, supporting child safety, family stability, and long-term well-being. This position focuses on prevention and early intervention by working directly with families in their homes and connecting them to appropriate community resources. This position requires **weekly in-home visits** throughout the **Northern Region**, serving **Will, Grundy, and Kankakee Counties**. ## Key Responsibilities - Conduct weekly in-home visits to assess child safety, family needs, and risk factors. - Apply critical thinking and a solution-focused approach to help families overcome challenges. - Connect families to community-based resources, including: - Parenting education and support services - Short-term in-home assistance - Medical and behavioral health care - Additional services tailored to each family's needs - Promote protective factors and reinforce family strengths to reduce risk. - Maintain timely, accurate case documentation and reports. - Collaborate with internal teams, DCFS partners, and community service providers. - Advocate for families while supporting child safety and family preservation. ## Qualifications ### Education (Required) - **Bachelor's degree in Social Work or a related Human Services field is required.** - **This position requires a qualifying Bachelor's degree; a Master's degree is not required.** ### Experience - One (1) or more years of experience working with children, families, or high-need populations preferred. - Experience with trauma-informed care, mental health, substance use, or domestic violence is preferred. - Familiarity with community resources and service networks preferred. - Proficiency in Microsoft Office and electronic case documentation systems. - Ability to build rapport with families while utilizing a strengths-based, solution-focused approach. ## Additional Requirements - Valid driver's license. - Reliable personal vehicle. - Current auto insurance. - Clean driving record. - Ability to travel throughout **Will, Grundy, and Kankakee Counties** for in-home visits. - Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, as needed. ## Compensation & Benefits - **$24.00 – $25.00/hour**, based on experience - Medical, dental, and vision insurance - Life and disability insurance - Paid vacation, sick time, and holidays - 401(k) retirement plan - Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - Employee discount programs - Professional development and growth opportunities ## Why Join Aunt Martha's Health & Wellness? At Aunt Martha's, you'll become part of a mission-driven organization dedicated to strengthening children, families, and communities. You'll work alongside passionate professionals, build meaningful relationships with families, and make a lasting impact through prevention, advocacy, and community-based support.