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

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.

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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• $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

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.