Director of Healing and Wellness, LCSW

Free Root Operation; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Part time

Job summary

A nonprofit organization in Chicago seeks a Director of Healing & Wellness to lead a team of social workers. This role focuses on programmatic development and clinical oversight, aiming to empower Black women impacted by violence through innovative care models. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in clinical social work, trauma-informed practices, and leadership within community-based settings. The position offers a hybrid work environment with a commitment to social justice and community empowerment.

Benefits

Health Insurance

Vision

Flexible Spending Account with partial match

Professional Development Support

Wellness Days with Stipend

Vacation Time

Personal Leave

Paid two-week holiday break

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in clinical social work.
• At least 2 years of leadership experience in a nonprofit setting.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic implementation of the BLOOM methodology.
• Supervise and mentor Licensed Social Workers and students.
• Track and report participant progress and program outcomes.

Skills

Leadership

Collaboration

Trauma-informed care

Organizational skills

Education

Master’s in Social Work

Tools

G-Suite

Microsoft Office

Job description

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Job Title: Director of Healing & Wellness

Organization: The Free Root Operation, Inc.

Location: Chicago, IL

Job Type: Hybrid Full Time

Schedule: A combination of standard business hours, recurring weekend, and recurring evening availability.

Job Description

We are seeking a Licensed Clinical Social Worker to lead and develop our team of social workers and future social workers. This role does not involve managing a direct caseload but focuses on program development, facilitation, and team guidance while maintaining high clinical standards. The ideal candidate is eager to utilize their creativity to foster an innovative culture of care for Black women impacted by violence.

Free Root Operation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving single mothers and women, especially those often overlooked in gun violence advocacy, as a part of public safety infrastructure. We address root causes of gun violence through wellness and economic development programs that empower healing, break cycles of violence, and improve family trajectories.

Our flagship initiative, The BLOOM Network, offers various wellness programs tailored to different stages of participants' wellness journeys, currently engaging over 1,800 registrants in the Chicagoland area. The core of this network is the BLOOM Cohort: a five-month intensive combining mental health counseling, workshops, and leadership training to improve hope, energy, mood, and self-worth.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Strategy and Methodology Oversight

• Lead the implementation of the BLOOM methodology, ensuring alignment with clinical and program goals.
• Serve as a facilitator for BLOOM Cohort programs.
• Train and guide clinicians and facilitators on care strategies.
• Hold regular strategy meetings to ensure consistency and quality.
• Maintain expertise in trauma-informed, evidence-based practices and refine the care model.
• Attend all BLOOM Cohort events, clinics, and network activities as needed.

Collaboration with Program Execution

• Coordinate with the Program Manager to ensure seamless program delivery.
• Guide program content and participant engagement strategies.
• Assist with application processes for BLOOM Cohort participation.

Care Team Leadership and Oversight

• Supervise and mentor Licensed Social Workers and practicum students.
• Ensure ethical and effective counseling and participant interactions.
• Oversee caseload management and participant adherence to protocols.

Caseload Oversight

• Support a departmental caseload of 30 participants.
• Coordinate and execute Flower Hour Clinics and emergency interventions.

Metrics and Development

• Participate in meetings to discuss program metrics and outcomes.
• Track and report participant data for continuous improvement.
• Lead program evaluation efforts.
• Support organizational growth and innovation.

Partnership Building

• Develop partnerships with community organizations and universities to expand resources and placements.

Qualifications

• LCSW required; Master’s in Social Work or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of clinical social work experience, including supervision.
• At least 2 years in nonprofit or community settings.
• Expertise in trauma-informed care, family systems, and holistic wellness.
• Experience with diverse populations and systemic issues.
• Proven facilitation and training skills.
• Strong organizational and collaborative abilities.
• Commitment to social justice and equity.
• Proficiency in G-Suite, Microsoft Office, and data systems.

Additional Notes

• Free Root Operation is a Black woman-led organization committed to empowering Black and Brown communities. We encourage applicants aligned with our mission.
• Based in Bronzeville with community travel required.
• This is a non-caseload management role focused on clinical expertise, strategy, staff training, and emergency support.
• Flexible hybrid schedule including weekends and evenings; most programming on Tuesdays and Saturdays.

Physical and Work Environment

Ability to stand for extended periods and occasionally lift materials (~30-40 lbs.).

• Health Insurance
• Vision
• Flexible Spending Account (partial match)
• Professional Development Support
• Wellness Days with Stipend
• Vacation and Personal Leave
• Opportunity to serve Black women
• Paid holiday break at year-end

To apply, send your cover letter, resume, and two references to: Director of Operations, Arianne Elena Payne, [e-mail].