Description
Frequent Users Service Engagement (FUSE) Program
The FUSE Program Case Manager / Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) is responsible for providing intensive, strengths-based case management services and occupational therapy interventions under the clinical supervision of a licensed Occupational Therapist to families who are frequent users of the shelter system. This position helps families navigate housing access, stabilize routines and strengthen pathways to long-term housing.
Reports to the FUSE Clinical Program Lead and receives clinical supervision from the Occupational Therapist.
Position Responsibilities
Program Delivery (70%)
Conduct case manager intake assessments, housing service planning and goal development, and ongoing case reviews with families to support stabilization in housing, maintenance or increase of income, and increase in skills and resources
Assist with OT screenings and functional assessments once demonstrating competency under OT supervision
Provide occupational therapy (OT) individual and group interventions focused on daily living skills; promoting health, well-being and participation; sensory regulation; strengths-based routines; and environmental supports within the Illinois Occupational Therapy Practice Act (225 ILCS 75/)
Provide life skills instruction in formal and informal settings, possibly including, but not limited to financial literacy, parenting education, and health/wellness education and access, and other skill development as needed
Coach caregivers in stress management and supporting children’s developmental needs
Connects clients to community resources and completes referrals for appropriate services identified in progress notes or service plans
Provide individualized housing navigation assistance including application support, landlord engagement, and moving coordination
Assist with accessing benefits such as SNAP, TANF, SSI, childcare subsidies, and transportation resources
Support linkages to healthcare, mental health, substance use treatment, employment services, and school enrollment
Conduct regular outreach and engagement with families in shelters and community locations to maintain consistent participation
Utilize trauma-informed, strengths-based strategies to build rapport and support family resilience
Deliver consultation and modeling to shelter staff to support trauma-responsive care
Participate in crisis intervention and collaborate with staff at referring shelters to prevent service interruptions or shelter discharge for FUSE families.
Facilitate warm handoffs to community partners including legal aid, childcare providers, and health systems
Maintain accurate and timely DFSS and OT documentation in HMIS and agency databases to meet reporting and compliance standards
Monitor and track participant progress toward stability outcomes and adjust service plans as needed
Participate in multidisciplinary case staffing with internal and external partners
Support reunification efforts and transitions back to permanent housing when applicable
Maintain professional boundaries and uphold confidentiality at all times
Attend required trainings and contribute to continuous quality improvement of services
Program Administration (30%)
Documents all client contacts and all services provided in progress notes
Assists Supportive Services staff in record keeping.
Maintains updated paper files in neat and legible condition
Completes all required paperwork in an accurate and timely manner, including but not limited to: assessments, service plans, contact log, compliance form, and matching gifts form
Completes timely and accurate data entry into HMIS and any additional database as needed according to agency policy.
Completes closing documentation including final service plans, closing form and HMIS
Ensure participation in required OT supervision for state licensure
Requirements
Bachelor’s degree or Associates degree in Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant from accredited program
Active COTA state license and board certification in good standing
Experience working with families facing housing instability preferred
Strong communication skills and ability to build trusting relationships
Knowledge of Chicago homeless service system a plus
Bilingual in Spanish and English a plus
Proficient in use and knowledge of Google Suite of products and general office equipment
Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work effectively with persons who may be ill, disabled, emotionally dysregulated and/or agitated through crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques
Ability to show empathy and remain nonjudgmental
Ability to make independent judgments and escalate needs to appropriate support staff
Ability to manage multiple tasks
Training and/or experience in use of Motivational Interviewing and Harm Reduction techniques
Valid Driver’s License, Auto Insurance commensurate with personnel policy
Commitment to the mission of ReVive Center
