Foster Care Family Support Specialist

Lawrence Hall; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 27,000 - 30,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k) with matching

Paid time off

Job summary

Lawrence Hall, a Chicago-based nonprofit, seeks a Family Support Specialist to help keep children safe and foster families supported. You will transport youth, supervise visits, mentor youth, and provide respite support in collaboration with caseworkers.

This role requires flexibility and a compassionate approach to trauma-informed care. You will work full-time, with evening, weekend, and holiday availability as program needs require, and you will operate across office, home, community, and

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Bachelor's degree preferred in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, or related field.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Reliable transportation and valid Illinois driver’s license.

Responsibilities

• Provide transportation for youth to school, visits, therapy and medical appointments.
• Supervise and document parent-child and sibling visits per agency/DCFS requirements.
• Support daily living activities, mentoring, and resilience-building for youth.
• Serve as a positive role model and provide respite support for foster families.
• Assist caseworkers during home visits and provide stabilization services as needed.
• Complete required documentation and service notes accurately and on time.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Flexible schedule

Driving ability

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Who We Are

Lawrence Hall is a Chicago-based nonprofit social services agency that provides therapeutic, wellness, and skill development services to youth, families, and communities impacted by trauma.

Lawrence Hall fosters a culture built upon the principles of the Children and Residential Experiences (CARE) model and the core values of Respect, Empowerment, Safety, and Teamwork. Together, these principles are embedded throughout our trauma-informed philosophy and guide how we serve youth and families, support one another as colleagues, and partner with our community.

Our cornerstone Foster Care Program connects DCFS-referred youth ages 0-21 with safe, nurturing homes and the comprehensive services they need to thrive. Whether supporting Traditional, Specialized, or Adolescent Foster Care, our staff work alongside foster families and caregivers to help young people reach permanency, whether that is reunification with their birth family or placement with a long-term alternative caregiver.

About the Role

As a Family Support Specialist, you will provide hands‑on support to children, youth, and foster families by helping ensure safety, stability, and positive developmental outcomes. From transporting youth and supervising family visits to mentoring and respite support, this role plays a critical part in helping foster families succeed and youth thrive.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is compassionate, flexible, dependable, and passionate about making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families.

What You'll Do

• Provide transportation for youth to school, family visits, therapy appointments, medical appointments, and other required activities.
• Supervise and document parent-child and sibling visitation in accordance with agency and DCFS requirements.
• Support children and youth with daily living activities, personal care needs, mentoring, and skill development.
• Serve as a positive role model and provide respite support for foster families.
• Assist caseworkers during home visits and provide stabilization services as needed.
• Complete required documentation, reports, and service notes accurately and in a timely manner.

Who We're Looking For

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Valid Illinois driver's license, reliable vehicle, and proof of insurance.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Basic computer proficiency and ability to complete electronic documentation.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as program needs require.

Preferred

• Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Human Services, Psychology, or a related field.
• At least one year of experience as a child care worker, youth mentor, family support worker, or similar role.
• Experience working with youth and families impacted by trauma.
• Knowledge of foster care, child welfare, or family services systems.

Position Requirements & Work Environment

• Work Location: Stewart Campus, 400 W. 76th Street, Chicago, IL 60620.
• Travel/Driving: Frequent travel throughout Chicago using an agency or personal vehicle. Must be able to safely transport youth and families as required.
• Schedule: Full-time position. Evening, weekend, and holiday availability may be required based on program needs.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, kneel, bend, and install child safety seats as needed.
• Work Environment: Combination of office, home, community, and foster care settings.
• Other Position Requirements: Must successfully complete all required background checks, screenings, and training requirements.

Compensation and Benefits

We care about the well‑being of our employees and are proud to offer a comprehensive and competitive total rewards package that includes:

• Hourly Rate: $19.62-$22.00 per hour. Compensation is based on a set hourly rate and may vary based on education and experience.
• Average of 17-25 days PTO + 9 holidays.
• Medical insurance (HMO and PPO options).
• Dental insurance (HMO and PPO options).
• Vision insurance.
• 401(k) with up to 5% employer match and auto‑vesting.
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for Medical and Dependent Care.
• Pre‑tax commuter benefits for parking and transit.
• 100% employer‑paid Basic Life and AD&D Insurance.
• Voluntary Life Insurance for employees, spouses, and children.
• Accident and Critical Illness Insurance.
• Short‑Term and Long‑Term Disability.
• 100% employer‑paid Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for free counseling and life resources.
• Wellness Reimbursement Program.
• Employee Referral Bonus up to $1,500.
• Continuing Education Units (CEUs) for licensed employees.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness.

Frequently cited statistics show that women and underrepresented groups apply to jobs only if they meet 100% of the necessary skills and abilities. Lawrence Hall encourages you to apply even if you do not have experience in all areas of essential functions. We look forward to your application.

This position meets the FLSA requirements for Non‑Exempt.

Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V.

Following job offer acceptance, all new hires are required to complete a background check through the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS). Individuals who have lived outside of Illinois may also be subject to out‑of‑state checks, which can take up to eight weeks to process. While these checks are pending, candidates should continue completing all other pre‑boarding requirements. Employment may begin once all pre‑boarding steps are complete and DCFS clearance has been received.