Street Outreach Worker

The Street Outreach Worker is responsible for building trust and fostering relationships with young adults, families, and community stakeholders in neighborhoods impacted by violence. This position serves as the program's frontline representative, conducting targeted outreach, recruiting eligible participants, and connecting them to case management, victim advocacy, and supportive services. The Street Outreach Worker will maintain a strong presence in the community, collaborate with partners to address safety concerns, and promote engagement in positive, violence-prevention activities. This role requires a proactive, street-level approach, strong interpersonal skills, and a deep commitment to reducing violence and strengthening community resilience.

The salary for this position is $50,000 per year with opportunities to grow within the organization

Our staff is the Y's greatest asset. Our teams provide valuable skills, knowledge, and passion that is essential to the contribution and positive impact in our communities, which is why we offer Y employees numerous perks and benefits, including:

• Competitive salaries reflecting your skills and experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees, plus wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership.
• Generous PTO and paid holidays, with flexible work hours for work-life balance.
• 403(b) plan with company contributions for eligible employees after 2 years of service.
• Continuous learning opportunities through workshops and training programs.
• Supportive work environment valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Discounts on programs, employee assistance programs, and company-sponsored events.

Scope of Responsibilities

Community Outreach & Engagement

• Conduct regular community canvassing in targeted neighborhoods affected by violence.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with youth, families, community members, and local stakeholders.
• Identify and recruit eligible participants for the JAC CC-CVI program.
• Distribute program materials and provide information about available services.
• Attend community events, school functions, and public meetings to promote the program.
• Serve as a liaison between the program and community organizations, faith-based institutions, and grassroots groups.

Violence Prevention & Intervention Support

• Act as an early point of contact for individuals at risk of involvement in violence.
• Provide immediate connection to case managers, victim advocates, and other support staff.
• Assist in de-escalating community conflicts in coordination with violence interrupters and other trained professionals.
• Promote participation in workshops, mentoring programs, and positive community activities.

Partnership Development

• Collaborate with local law enforcement, schools, health providers, and social service agencies to strengthen referral pathways.
• Participate in cross-agency meetings and working groups focused on violence prevention.
• Maintain a visible and consistent presence in high-need areas.

Data Tracking & Reporting

• Document outreach activities, contacts, and referrals in the program database.
• Provide weekly updates to the Project Manager on engagement activities and outcomes.
• Assist in preparing monthly and quarterly reports for grant compliance.

Minimum and Required Requirements

• Minimum 2 years of experience in outreach, community engagement, youth services, or violence prevention.
• Lived experience in target communities and familiarity with local dynamics strongly preferred.
• Deep understanding of Chicago's neighborhoods and the systemic issues contributing to community violence.
• Strong relationship-building and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to connect with diverse populations, especially high-risk youth and young adults.
• Knowledge of local resources, community organizations, and violence prevention strategies.
• Strong communication and conflict resolution skills.
• Self-motivated, adaptable, and able to work independently in the field.
• Proficiency in basic computer skills and data entry.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including some evenings, weekends, and on-call shifts.
• Must be able to travel to assigned locations (Humboldt Park, East and West Garfield Park).
• In-Person Role- This is not a hybrid position. This role requires staff to be onsite and present in the community in order to build relationships and provide hands-on support.

Child Abuse Prevention- Supports the YMCA's commitment to child abuse prevention by:

• Reporting any items that may provide a health or safety hazard to staff, members or guests to your supervisor.
• Following all policies and procedures related to keeping children safe in our facilities and programs, including those related to the monitoring and supervision of children.
• Reporting any suspicious behavior and violation of policy and procedures to your supervisor.
• Completing all child abuse prevention training as required.