Family Housing Case Manager
Breakthrough, Chicago, IL, United States
Job Title
Family Housing Case Manager
Reports to
Family Housing Coordinator
Program Area
Adult Support Services (ASN)
FLSA Code
Full time, Exempt
Hours
40-hour flexible workweek, occasional evenings and weekends
Location
The Residences, 3340 W. Carroll Ave, Chicago, IL 60624
Position Summary
The Family Housing Case Manager serves as the primary Life Coach and Partnership Lead for families participating in Breakthrough’s 24-month Family Housing Program. This role is responsible for building a consistent, trust-based relationship with lease-holding families and guiding them through a structured journey toward long-term housing stability, financial independence, and family well-being.
Operating within a trauma-responsive, strengths-based environment, the Life Coach partners with families not as clients to be managed, but as individuals to be developed, supporting them in meeting both lease obligations and program requirements, which are formalized through the lease and participation agreements.
This role integrates coaching, accountability, and coordination to help families move through the program’s three phases: Stabilization, Growth & Skill-Building, and Transition, while increasing ownership, decision-making capacity, and independence over time.
Essential Responsibilities / Functions
Relational Coaching & Partnership
Serve as the primary relationship holder for assigned families, building trust through consistency, empathy, and clear expectations
Facilitate weekly or bi‑weekly coaching sessions focused on goal‑setting, progress reflection, and problem‑solving
Establish and maintain a shared understanding of roles, expectations, and responsibilities in alignment with lease and program agreements
Use a trauma-responsive approach that honors family dignity while maintaining clear accountability
Family Success Planning & Goal Advancement
Lead the development and ongoing refinement of individualized Family Success Plans aligned with program outcome domains (housing stability, income, financial health, family well‑being, and community connection)
Track and celebrate progress while addressing barriers with structured problem‑solving
Lease‑Linked Accountability & Housing Stability
Reinforce the connection between lease compliance and program participation, including rent contributions, unit care, and community standards
Support families in understanding and fulfilling tenant responsibilities, including budgeting for rent (30% of income), maintaining utilities, and preparing for independent leasing
Phase‑Based Coaching & Progression
Tailor coaching approach and expectations based on the program’s three phases
Stabilization (0–6 months)
Growth & Skill‑Building (6–18 months)
Transition & Launch (18–24 months)
Coordinate Wraparound Supports
Act as a connector and advocate across systems, coordinating with:
Employment and workforce partners
Schools and childcare providers
Behavioral health and wellness services
Financial coaching resources
Financial & Economic Mobility Coaching
Support families in:
Budget creation and financial tracking
Income growth planning (employment or education pathways)
Building savings for transition to independent housing
Reinforce financial behaviors required for long‑term housing sustainability
Progress Monitoring & Documentation
Maintain accurate and timely documentation of coaching sessions, goals, and outcomes in Salesforce
Track participation in required program elements tied to housing agreements
Use data to inform coaching strategies, identify risks, and measure progress toward independence
Provide Crisis Response & Stability Support
Participate in team meetings, case consultations, and ongoing training
Uphold program philosophy, relational standards, and trauma-responsive practices
Collaborate with Housing Coordinator, Program Assistants, and leadership to ensure seamless service delivery
Core Competencies
Trauma-informed and family-centered care
Advocacy and problem-solving
Collaboration and teamwork
Professional judgment and ethical practice
Demonstrated Values
Independently follows agency policy and procedures
Follows through with commitments including meeting established timelines
Identifies and resolves difficult issues
Projects a professional image to all internal and external customers ensuring proper grooming
Promotes customer care through all actions and behaviors
Works effectively with diverse staff, communities and population served
Maintains a high degree of sensitivity, tact, and diplomacy during stressful situations
A passion for the mission of Breakthrough
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, or a related field
Minimum of 1‑2 years of experience in housing case management, family services, or a related human services field
Knowledge of housing systems, public benefits, and community resources
Experience working with families experiencing homelessness, poverty, or trauma
Strong organizational, communication, and documentation skills
Ability to manage multiple cases and prioritize effectively
Culturally responsive and strengths-based approach to service delivery
Awareness of trauma reactions
Strong computer skills and a working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Google Drive
Strong knowledge of program outcomes and deliverables
Must maintain a valid driver’s license along with daily access to a vehicle and acceptable driving record
Preferred Qualifications
Bilingual (Spanish/English or other relevant language)
Experience with Salesforce, Google Docs or similar case management systems
Familiarity with local housing programs and Continuum of Care systems
Required Knowledge, Skills And Abilities
Knowledge in mental health and substance abuse
Ability to demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, professionalism, and problem-solving ability
Must have the ability to use initiative, discretion and independent judgment in making decisions
Ability to demonstrate initiative and follow through and be comfortable working in a changing environment
Demonstrates willingness to consistently improve work performance through their relationship and guidance
Must possess an accurate and informed understanding of cultural and urban realities, especially as related to youth, families, poverty, and community development
SUPERVISION
Directions received from the Family Housing Coordinator
This position has no direct reports
Physical Requirements And Working Conditions
Work Environment: While performing the duties of this job, the employee will work in a multi-purpose facility and/or outdoors and thus will be exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but can be high depending on the activities in the facility. They will also perform community outreach/home visits.
Physical Demands
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to walk and/or sit; use hands and fingers to feel objects, tools or controls, reach with hands and arms; balance; stoop; regularly talk or hear. The employee must be able to bend, stoop, pull, lift as well as have overhead extension of arms. Must be able to stand for long periods of time; be able to lift, carry or move at least 50 pounds. Must adhere to proper handling and lifting techniques. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Safety Requirements
Prior to the first day of work, must complete a criminal background and sex offender clearance.
Equipment Used
The employee will generally use general office equipment including but not limited to telephone, computer, calculator, copier, overhead projector, paper shredder, paper cutter, and filing systems.
Benefits
Medical - We offer group medical benefits through UnitedHealthcare to full-time employees. You have the option of choosing between a PPO or HMO plans. Depending on the plan you choose, there may be no cost for an employee single coverage. There is a cost per pay period for coverage for family (i.e., employee plus spouse; employee plus child(ren) or employee plus spouse and child(ren)).
Dental – We offer group dental benefits through UnitedHealthcare to full-time employees. You have the option of choosing between a PPO or HMO. This is an employee paid benefit.
Vision - We offer group vision benefits through UnitedHealthcare to full-time employees. This is an employee paid benefit.
Life - Through UnitedHealthcare, we offer full-time employees term life insurance to the employee’s family in case of death. The cost of this benefit is paid fully by the organization.
Short and long-term disability - If you become disabled, UnitedHealthcare provides both short-term and long-term disability insurance to full-time employees. The cost of this benefit is paid fully by the organization.
401(k) Plan - We offer a 401(k) plan which is a tax-deferred annuity to assist full-time employees in planning for retirement. We match 50% of your contribution up to a total of 3% of your base salary.
Section 125 Plan (FSA) - Through TASC, we allow full-time employees to make contributions toward premiums for medical insurance, out-of-pocket medical expenses, dependent care expenses, and/or transit and parking on a “before tax” rather than an “after tax” basis.
Vacation Days - Full-time employees in this position are eligible to accrue vacation days at a rate of 6.67 – 13.33 days per month based on tenure with the organization.
Personal Days - Full-time employees in this position are eligible for up to 3 personal days annually, pro-rated in year one.
Sick Days - Full-time employees in this position are eligible for up to 10 sick days annually, pro-rated in year one.
Compensation
Actual salary within the range is determined by many factors including but not limited to skills, experience, education and internal equity. $50,000-$55,000/annually
Breakthrough is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, political affiliation, sexual orientation or any other non-merit factors. If a reasonable accommodation is needed for any part of the application and hiring process, please contact us at HR@breakthrough.org. The decision to grant reasonable accommodation will be on a case-by-case basis.
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Family Housing Case Manager
Reports to
Family Housing Coordinator
Program Area
Adult Support Services (ASN)
FLSA Code
Full time, Exempt
Hours
40-hour flexible workweek, occasional evenings and weekends
Location
The Residences, 3340 W. Carroll Ave, Chicago, IL 60624
Position Summary
The Family Housing Case Manager serves as the primary Life Coach and Partnership Lead for families participating in Breakthrough’s 24-month Family Housing Program. This role is responsible for building a consistent, trust-based relationship with lease-holding families and guiding them through a structured journey toward long-term housing stability, financial independence, and family well-being.
Operating within a trauma-responsive, strengths-based environment, the Life Coach partners with families not as clients to be managed, but as individuals to be developed, supporting them in meeting both lease obligations and program requirements, which are formalized through the lease and participation agreements.
This role integrates coaching, accountability, and coordination to help families move through the program’s three phases: Stabilization, Growth & Skill-Building, and Transition, while increasing ownership, decision-making capacity, and independence over time.
Essential Responsibilities / Functions
Relational Coaching & Partnership
Serve as the primary relationship holder for assigned families, building trust through consistency, empathy, and clear expectations
Facilitate weekly or bi‑weekly coaching sessions focused on goal‑setting, progress reflection, and problem‑solving
Establish and maintain a shared understanding of roles, expectations, and responsibilities in alignment with lease and program agreements
Use a trauma-responsive approach that honors family dignity while maintaining clear accountability
Family Success Planning & Goal Advancement
Lead the development and ongoing refinement of individualized Family Success Plans aligned with program outcome domains (housing stability, income, financial health, family well‑being, and community connection)
Track and celebrate progress while addressing barriers with structured problem‑solving
Lease‑Linked Accountability & Housing Stability
Reinforce the connection between lease compliance and program participation, including rent contributions, unit care, and community standards
Support families in understanding and fulfilling tenant responsibilities, including budgeting for rent (30% of income), maintaining utilities, and preparing for independent leasing
Phase‑Based Coaching & Progression
Tailor coaching approach and expectations based on the program’s three phases
Stabilization (0–6 months)
Growth & Skill‑Building (6–18 months)
Transition & Launch (18–24 months)
Coordinate Wraparound Supports
Act as a connector and advocate across systems, coordinating with:
Employment and workforce partners
Schools and childcare providers
Behavioral health and wellness services
Financial coaching resources
Financial & Economic Mobility Coaching
Support families in:
Budget creation and financial tracking
Income growth planning (employment or education pathways)
Building savings for transition to independent housing
Reinforce financial behaviors required for long‑term housing sustainability
Progress Monitoring & Documentation
Maintain accurate and timely documentation of coaching sessions, goals, and outcomes in Salesforce
Track participation in required program elements tied to housing agreements
Use data to inform coaching strategies, identify risks, and measure progress toward independence
Provide Crisis Response & Stability Support
Participate in team meetings, case consultations, and ongoing training
Uphold program philosophy, relational standards, and trauma-responsive practices
Collaborate with Housing Coordinator, Program Assistants, and leadership to ensure seamless service delivery
Core Competencies
Trauma-informed and family-centered care
Advocacy and problem-solving
Collaboration and teamwork
Professional judgment and ethical practice
Demonstrated Values
Independently follows agency policy and procedures
Follows through with commitments including meeting established timelines
Identifies and resolves difficult issues
Projects a professional image to all internal and external customers ensuring proper grooming
Promotes customer care through all actions and behaviors
Works effectively with diverse staff, communities and population served
Maintains a high degree of sensitivity, tact, and diplomacy during stressful situations
A passion for the mission of Breakthrough
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, or a related field
Minimum of 1‑2 years of experience in housing case management, family services, or a related human services field
Knowledge of housing systems, public benefits, and community resources
Experience working with families experiencing homelessness, poverty, or trauma
Strong organizational, communication, and documentation skills
Ability to manage multiple cases and prioritize effectively
Culturally responsive and strengths-based approach to service delivery
Awareness of trauma reactions
Strong computer skills and a working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Google Drive
Strong knowledge of program outcomes and deliverables
Must maintain a valid driver’s license along with daily access to a vehicle and acceptable driving record
Preferred Qualifications
Bilingual (Spanish/English or other relevant language)
Experience with Salesforce, Google Docs or similar case management systems
Familiarity with local housing programs and Continuum of Care systems
Required Knowledge, Skills And Abilities
Knowledge in mental health and substance abuse
Ability to demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, professionalism, and problem-solving ability
Must have the ability to use initiative, discretion and independent judgment in making decisions
Ability to demonstrate initiative and follow through and be comfortable working in a changing environment
Demonstrates willingness to consistently improve work performance through their relationship and guidance
Must possess an accurate and informed understanding of cultural and urban realities, especially as related to youth, families, poverty, and community development
SUPERVISION
Directions received from the Family Housing Coordinator
This position has no direct reports
Physical Requirements And Working Conditions
Work Environment: While performing the duties of this job, the employee will work in a multi-purpose facility and/or outdoors and thus will be exposed to weather conditions prevalent at the time. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but can be high depending on the activities in the facility. They will also perform community outreach/home visits.
Physical Demands
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to walk and/or sit; use hands and fingers to feel objects, tools or controls, reach with hands and arms; balance; stoop; regularly talk or hear. The employee must be able to bend, stoop, pull, lift as well as have overhead extension of arms. Must be able to stand for long periods of time; be able to lift, carry or move at least 50 pounds. Must adhere to proper handling and lifting techniques. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Safety Requirements
Prior to the first day of work, must complete a criminal background and sex offender clearance.
Equipment Used
The employee will generally use general office equipment including but not limited to telephone, computer, calculator, copier, overhead projector, paper shredder, paper cutter, and filing systems.
Benefits
Medical - We offer group medical benefits through UnitedHealthcare to full-time employees. You have the option of choosing between a PPO or HMO plans. Depending on the plan you choose, there may be no cost for an employee single coverage. There is a cost per pay period for coverage for family (i.e., employee plus spouse; employee plus child(ren) or employee plus spouse and child(ren)).
Dental – We offer group dental benefits through UnitedHealthcare to full-time employees. You have the option of choosing between a PPO or HMO. This is an employee paid benefit.
Vision - We offer group vision benefits through UnitedHealthcare to full-time employees. This is an employee paid benefit.
Life - Through UnitedHealthcare, we offer full-time employees term life insurance to the employee’s family in case of death. The cost of this benefit is paid fully by the organization.
Short and long-term disability - If you become disabled, UnitedHealthcare provides both short-term and long-term disability insurance to full-time employees. The cost of this benefit is paid fully by the organization.
401(k) Plan - We offer a 401(k) plan which is a tax-deferred annuity to assist full-time employees in planning for retirement. We match 50% of your contribution up to a total of 3% of your base salary.
Section 125 Plan (FSA) - Through TASC, we allow full-time employees to make contributions toward premiums for medical insurance, out-of-pocket medical expenses, dependent care expenses, and/or transit and parking on a “before tax” rather than an “after tax” basis.
Vacation Days - Full-time employees in this position are eligible to accrue vacation days at a rate of 6.67 – 13.33 days per month based on tenure with the organization.
Personal Days - Full-time employees in this position are eligible for up to 3 personal days annually, pro-rated in year one.
Sick Days - Full-time employees in this position are eligible for up to 10 sick days annually, pro-rated in year one.
Compensation
Actual salary within the range is determined by many factors including but not limited to skills, experience, education and internal equity. $50,000-$55,000/annually
Breakthrough is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration without regard to race, color, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, political affiliation, sexual orientation or any other non-merit factors. If a reasonable accommodation is needed for any part of the application and hiring process, please contact us at HR@breakthrough.org. The decision to grant reasonable accommodation will be on a case-by-case basis.
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