Community Resource Assistant Jobs in Gary, IN (NOW HIRING)

Chicago, IL

Full-Time | Exempt | Community-Based / Hybrid

This is a field-based, hybrid position. Candidates must live in Illinois and be able to travel throughout the Chicagoland area to build community partnerships, connect families to resources, and support children and families involved in the child welfare system.

Help Strengthen Communities and Expand Opportunities for Families

Kaleidoscope is a child and family services agency dedicated to helping children, youth, and families thrive. Through collaboration, innovation, and meaningful community partnerships, we work to remove barriers, increase access to resources, and create pathways to long-term family stability and success.

We are seeking a Full-Time Community Resource Manager - THRIVE to join our collaborative and mission-driven team.

About the Role

The Community Resource Manager serves as a key connector between families, community partners, service providers, and the THRIVE network. This role focuses on building and maintaining strong community relationships, identifying resources that address family needs, coordinating referrals and supports, and helping families access opportunities that promote well-being and long-term success. The Community Resource Manager works closely with Kaleidoscope staff, THRIVE partners, and community stakeholders to ensure equitable access to services and supports.

What You'll Do

• Coordinate THRIVE project activities, including scheduling team meetings, creating agendas, and maintaining meeting minutes.
• Build and strengthen partnerships with community organizations, service providers, and stakeholders to expand the resources available to families.
• Identify and address gaps in community services and explore opportunities to improve collaboration among providers.
• Attend community coalitions, service area meetings, and partner network meetings to cultivate relationships and advocate for family needs.
• Maintain and regularly update a comprehensive resource directory organized by social determinants of health.
• Collaborate with Intact Family Services staff to identify and secure resources, including flex fund supports, for families.
• Develop and coordinate community engagement activities and events designed to strengthen connections between families and services.
• Attend Child and Family Team meetings as requested to assist with resource planning and coordination.
• Create informational materials, resource guides, flyers, handouts, and communications that promote programs, services, and opportunities.
• Track referrals, service connections, resource utilization, and outcomes within agency databases.
• Support continuous quality improvement efforts through data collection, reporting, and program evaluation activities.
• Ensure compliance with THRIVE data collection requirements and reporting standards.
• Participate in supervision, team meetings, professional development activities, and department initiatives.

Schedule & Work Environment

• Hybrid schedule with a minimum of two days in the office and the remaining time spent in the community.
• Flexible schedule based on the needs of children, youth, and families served.
• Evening and weekend hours may be required.
• Frequent travel throughout the Chicagoland area for meetings, community events, and family activities.

What You Need

Education & Experience

• Master's degree in social work or a related social service field required. MSW preferred.
• Minimum experience requirements:
• MSW: 1 year of social service experience
• Master's degree in related field: 2 years of social service experience

Preferred Qualifications

• LCSW or LCPC preferred but not required.

Additional Requirements

• Ability to obtain and maintain CWEL, CANS, CERAP, and other required Illinois certifications.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, verbal, relationship-building, and time management skills.
• Strong knowledge of community resources and service systems preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Outlook.
• Valid driver's license and full-time access to a minimally insured, operating vehicle.
• Ability to pass a satisfactory Motor Vehicle Report (MVR).

What It's Like to Work at Kaleidoscope

Kaleidoscope is a supportive, mission-driven organization guided by shared values that shape how we serve youth, families, and one another:

• Lead with empathy and non-judgment
• Practice self-awareness
• Name power imbalances and structural limitations
• Center youth and caregiver voice and choice
• Demonstrate flexibility and resourcefulness
• Balance healthy boundaries with authentic relationships
• Stay connected to purpose
• Prioritize self-care
• Commit to critical thinking and curiosity
• Celebrate strengths and successes

Why You'll Love This Role

• Opportunity to create meaningful community partnerships that directly benefit children and families
• Impactful work focused on reducing barriers and increasing access to resources
• Collaborative environment with community organizations, partner agencies, and internal teams
• Flexible hybrid work structure
• Professional growth and development opportunities
• Mission-driven work dedicated to strengthening families and communities

Equal Employment Opportunity

Kaleidoscope Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Inclusive/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, protected veteran status, military discharge status, age, marital status, parental status, or source of income.