at Bear Down Community Investment Group NFP in Chicago, Illinois, United States Job Description Position Summary The Social Services Manager oversees and coordinates supportive services designed to remove barriers, enhance stability, and foster economic mobility for individuals engaged in Bear Down's housing, workforce, and entrepreneurship programs. This role leads to the development, delivery, and continuous improvement of wraparound support services, ensuring participants have access to resources that address their holistic social, emotional, and economic needs. The Social Services Manager will supervise social service staff, deepen partnerships with community agencies, assess client needs, and ensure compliance with program, ethical, and regulatory standards. This is a leadership position requiring strong interpersonal skills, community knowledge, and a passion for equity-focused service delivery. Key Responsibilities Program Leadership & Service Coordination
- Lead the design, implementation, and oversight of social service programs that support housing stability, career development, and small‑business success.
- Conduct comprehensive needs assessments to identify barriers related to housing, employment, health, childcare, transportation, mental health, financial stability, and other critical support.
- Develop and monitor individualized service plans for participants, ensuring timely referral and follow‑through on supportive services.
- Collaborate closely with workforce, housing, and business program teams to ensure coordinated, trauma‑informed participant support. Community Partnerships & Resource Development
- Build and maintain relationships with community agencies, social service providers, government entities, and support networks to expand available resources for participants.
- Cultivate partnerships that enhance access to mental health support, legal services, benefits navigation, childcare, transportation assistance, and financial coaching.
- Represent Bear Down at community meetings, coalitions, and outreach events to strengthen collaboration across sectors. Supervision & Team Support
- Provide leadership, supervision, and professional development for case managers, social work staff, and interns.
- Conduct regular team meetings, monitor performance, and ensure consistent adherence to service standards and ethical guidelines.
- Promote a supportive, culturally responsive, and equity‑centered team environment. Participant Advocacy & Support
- Serve as an advocate for participants within housing, employer, and community systems, ensuring fair access and reducing systemic barriers.
- Utilize trauma‑informed approaches to support individuals experiencing crises, transitions, or instability.
- Empower participants through strengths‑based coaching that promotes self‑sufficiency and long‑term success. Compliance, Reporting & Evaluation
- Maintain accurate case notes, documentation, assessments, and records in compliance with agency, state, and federal requirements.
- Monitor outcomes and prepare reports for leadership, funders, and board committees.
- Support continuous improvement by analyzing service delivery data, identifying gaps, and recommending program enhancements.
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