ORGANIZATIONAL SUMMARY
Franciscan Outreach is a leading provider of homeless services in Chicago. We operate as a system of support for those who are marginalized and experiencing homelessness. We empower people to gain the stability they need to transition into permanent housing. Grounded in the Franciscan tradition, we serve everyone regardless of their beliefs, and we do not conduct or require participation in religious services. We are committed to working together as an inclusive community that promotes equal treatment and opportunity for all. We strive to create a caring, safe, and supportive community that embraces and uplifts everyone, especially our most vulnerable neighbors.
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Program Manager oversees the day-to-day operations of the SPARC program, with a specific focus on managing Resource Specialists tasked with serving individuals who are harder to place into traditional shelter/housing, particularly those experiencing complex barriers such as inability to complete ADL – Activities of Daily Living, mental health, substance use, or other vulnerabilities. The role emphasizes oversight of diversion, outmigration, and connecting clients to various community services. The Program Manager will also facilitate community meetings, review and respond to incidents and grievances, and coordinate outreach efforts to enhance service delivery and community engagement. This position requires strong supervisory skills, community partnership development, and a commitment to innovative, participant-centered approaches.
SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
- Strong understanding of diversion strategies, outmigration, and services for hardtoplace populations
- Ability to develop and maintain partnerships within the community and with service providers
- Skilled in conflict resolution, incident response, and grievance management
- Excellent communication and facilitation skills, especially with community groups and stakeholders
- Experience with traumainformed, harm reduction, and culturally competent service delivery
- Ability to lead and motivate staff in a dynamic environment
- Proficiency in computer systems, data entry, and reporting tools
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in social work, NonProfit Management, Community Development, or related field (Master’s preferred)
- 23 years of experience in case management, community outreach, or program coordination
- 5 years plus of Supervisory experience
- Valid driver’s license and insurance
- Experience working with marginalized populations, including those experiencing homelessness, mental health, or substance use challenges
- Health and Safety Requirements:
- Ability to lift approximately 20 lbs.
- Compliance with OSHA standards and agency safety protocols
- COVID19 vaccination required; accommodations considered as per law
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Commitment to the mission and values of Franciscan Outreach
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Flexibility to adapt to evolving community needs and program priorities
- Strong commitment to equity, inclusion, and antiracism practices
All staff are expected to abide by the policies of Franciscan Outreach, including, but not limited to, rules governing ethics, confidentiality, dual relationships, honesty, and integrity. All staff are expected to always act in good faith and in keeping with the mission and values of Franciscan Outreach. Staff must have a commitment to serving the guests of Franciscan Outreach and to contributing to a positive, respectful, and accepting environment.
Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position. This description provides a summary of the major duties and responsibilities and is not an exhaustive list of the duties and responsibilities. The employee holding this position may be required to perform additional duties to meet the needs of the organization.
Decisions and criteria governing the employment relationship with all employees are made in a non-discriminatory manner, without regard to race, ethnicity, creed, religion, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, citizenship status, military service and/or marital status, order of protection status, handicap, disability, or any other factor determined to be unlawful by federal, state, or local statutes.
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