Case Manager

Mental Health Association, Inc.; Chicopee (MA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 43,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)

Retirement Plan (403B, IRA)

Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)

Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)

Long Term Disability

Job summary

Mental Health Association, Inc. is seeking a Case Manager to provide trauma-informed support for individuals in recovery from substance use and/or mental health issues, focusing on those who have a history of homelessness. This role includes assisting participants in transitioning to stable housing while addressing their ongoing needs and goals.

The ideal candidate will have strong organizational and communication skills, a valid driver's license, and a high school diploma. The position offers a pay rate of $20 per hour and various employee benefits.

Qualifications

• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Minimum of six months of relevant experience required.
• Experience with individuals facing mental health/substance use challenges preferred.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate documentation for program entry.
• Complete initial assessments and service plans.
• Collaborate on Individualized Action Plans.
• Support the transition to stable housing.
• Educate participants about public benefits.

Skills

Organizational skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Ability to adapt

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

CPR certification

First Aid certification

Driver’s license

Job description

The Case Manager provides trauma-informed, person-centered support to individuals in substance use and/or mental health recovery who have a history of homelessness. This role involves assisting participants as they transition from homelessness into their own studio apartments within a congregate supportive housing site. Once housed, the Case Manager continues to provide ongoing support to help participants achieve their goals—such as stabilizing income, strengthening coping skills, accessing medical care, and pursuing employment. The Case Manager is also responsible for completing documentation accurately and in a timely manner.

Pay Rate: $20 an hour

Open Shift: Monday through Friday 9am-5pm (40hrs), some flexibility required

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate all documentation required for program entry, including but not limited to: homelessness verification, substance use assessments, eligibility screenings, and obtaining IDs, birth certificates, social security cards, income verifications, etc.
• Complete initial Adult Comprehensive Assessments, updates, and service plans.
• Collaborate as part of a multidisciplinary team to develop Individualized Action Plans (IAPs), utilizing participant voice, choice, strengths, and needs.
• Implement strategies outlined in the IAP and document progress as required.
• Develop, monitor, and revise safety plans in collaboration with participants and the team.
• Adjust support based on individual needs.
• Assist participants with the transition to stable housing.
• Maintain strong communication with staff at Chestnut Crossing.
• Support tenants in navigating responsibilities such as apartment maintenance, communication with property management, and understanding housing regulations.
• Support participants in seeking and maintaining employment, vocational training, or education.
• Educate and assist participants in accessing public benefits and resources (e.g., Social Security, EAEDC, SNAP, PVTA, Fuel Assistance).
• Encourage community integration by helping participants access public spaces, support groups, recreational activities, and vocational programs.
• Promote skill development in areas such as ADLs, money management, transportation, and social participation.

About the Division of Supportive Housing (DSH)

The Division of Supportive Housing (DSH) provides safe, stable housing and individualized wraparound services for individuals who have experienced chronic homelessness, many of whom are also navigating challenges related to substance use, incarceration, or trauma. DSH programs focus on long-term stability and help participants transition to independent, permanent housing. Through person-centered care, housing navigation, and community-based supports, we empower individuals to build a foundation for recovery, self-sufficiency, and a better quality of life.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Mental Health Association is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Requirements

• Valid driver’s license, adequate automobile insurance, and reliable transportation.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Capacity to adapt to the evolving needs of participants.
• Must be at least 21 years of age
• Must be able to obtain/maintain CPR and First Aid certifications.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Minimum of six months of relevant experience required.
• Experience working with individuals with mental health/substance use challenges or housing instability, preferred.
• Bilingual candidates (Spanish/English) preferred, +$1.00/hr.

Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (403B, IRA)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Family Leave (Maternity, Paternity)
• Long Term Disability
• $20 an hour