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.