Case Manager - School/Community Outreach

FRIENDInc is seeking a Case Manager – School & Community Outreach to serve as a key liaison between FRIENDInc and local schools, educational institutions, and youth-serving partners. This role focuses on building awareness of FRIENDInc’s services, strengthening referral pathways, and supporting young adults—particularly those aging out of foster care—who are at risk of housing instability or homelessness.

The Case Manager will regularly visit high schools, alternative schools, community colleges, and postsecondary institutions to engage counselors, social workers, and student support staff while also providing case management and follow-up support for referred young adults.

Key Responsibilities

School & Community Outreach

Conduct outreach visits to high schools, alternative education programs, and postsecondary institutions

Meet with school counselors, social workers, McKinney-Vento liaisons, and student support staff

Present information about FRIENDInc’s programs, eligibility, and referral process

Participate in school meetings, resource fairs, and community events

Build and maintain referral partnerships with educational institutions and youth-serving agencies

Case Management & Navigation

Conduct intake, screening, and needs assessments for referred young adults

Develop individualized service plans in collaboration with participants

Provide systems navigation support (housing resources, education, benefits, workforce)

Coordinate referrals to internal and external services

Maintain consistent follow-up and engagement with participants

Documentation & Data

Complete accurate case notes and data entry in HMIS or internal tracking systems

Track outreach activities, referrals, and outcomes

Support reporting and compliance requirements as needed

Collaboration & Advocacy

Work closely with FRIENDInc staff to ensure coordinated service delivery

Advocate for participants within school systems and community settings

Support continuous improvement of outreach strategies and materials

Qualifications

Currently enrolled in a college or university and actively pursuing a degree in Social Work, Human Services, Education, Psychology, or a related field (required)

Interest in working with young adults, particularly those aging out of foster care or experiencing housing instability

Strong interpersonal, communication, and presentation skills

Comfort engaging with school counselors, educators, and community professionals

Ability to maintain professionalism while representing FRIENDInc in external settings

Willingness to learn case management, systems navigation, and community outreach practices

Basic computer skills and ability to complete documentation and data entry

Reliable transportation and willingness to travel locally for school outreach (preferred but not required)

Core Competencies

Trauma-informed and strengths-based practice

Cultural humility and equity-centered engagement

Professional communication and presentation skills

Systems navigation and advocacy

Relationship-building across sectors

Why This Role Matters

This position plays a critical role in early identification, prevention, and connection to services, ensuring young adults receive support before housing instability escalates. The Case Manager – School & Community Outreach helps bridge education systems and community resources to improve long-term outcomes.