Provide on-site support, wellness programming, and life skills activities for adults with mental health and substance use diagnoses. Foster community integration and stability through relationship building and linking clients to essential social and healthcare resources.
Requirements summary
Requires a high school diploma or GED and must meet RSA or MHP credentials as defined by the Illinois DHS. Experience with mental illness, substance use, or housing instability is strongly preferred along with a valid driver's license.
Heritage Behavioral Health Center has served individuals and families across central Illinois for over 70 years. Our Supportive Housing Program reflects our commitment to helping adults with mental health and/or co-occurring substance use diagnoses live as independently and healthfully as possible. Guided by the principles of Community Supportive Housing, Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH), and Housing First, we meet clients where they are — fostering overall well-being, community connection, and lasting stability.
Position Summary
The Supportive Housing Specialist provides on-site formal and informal support to adults with mental health diagnoses and/or co-occurring substance use diagnoses residing in Heritage's supportive housing program in Decatur, Illinois. This role is primarily based in the community center at the supportive housing site and focuses on individual and group engagement, wellness activities, social gatherings, life skills programming, recreational opportunities, and community integration. The Specialist fosters a welcoming, recovery-oriented environment that promotes overall well-being, belonging, and independence.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Build genuine, trusting relationships with clients through consistent, respectful, and recovery-oriented engagement
Facilitate individual and group supportive activities in the on-site community center including wellness programming, life skills groups, social gatherings, and recreational events
Plan, coordinate, and lead resident/peer social gatherings and on-site group activities such as shared meals, themed events, and community outings
Organize and host on-site health screening days in collaboration with nursing staff and community health partners
Support clients in developing natural support systems and building peer connections within the housing community
Provide informal supportive conversation and active listening to help clients navigate daily stressors
Facilitate community integration activities by connecting clients to faith-based communities, support groups (AA, NA, Celebrate Recovery, Mood Tides), peer recovery centers, and local events
Share information on educational opportunities, vocational training, volunteer activities, and advocacy events to promote client growth and self-sufficiency
Benefits
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Health Insurance
Vision Insurance
Holidays
Professional Development
Training
CEU Support
Employer-sponsored Retirement Plan
Paid Wellness Day Off Every Other Week
Assist clients in learning to navigate community systems and identify transportation options for independent access to services
Support clients in understanding and practicing illness self-management techniques using WRAP and other evidence-based frameworks
Provide community support services including facilitation of coping skills, interpersonal skills, and functional skills development
Refer and link clients to behavioral health, healthcare, public benefits, and social service resources as needed
Assist clients in understanding and meeting obligations under their tenancy agreements
Support the development and distribution of a monthly programming calendar in coordination with the Peer Advisory Council
Document all client contacts and service activities in the electronic health record within required timeframes
Participate in service plan development and progress reviews in collaboration with case management and clinical staff
Maintain a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment in the community center at all times
Participate in staff meetings, supervision, and required training including evidence-based practice certifications
Provide awake on-site coverage as part of the scheduled staffing rotation, including evenings or weekends as assigned
Support crisis prevention and response by identifying client distress and alerting appropriate clinical staff or the 24-hour crisis line
Minimum Qualifications
Meets the minimum credential of a Rehabilitative Services Associate (RSA) as defined by the Illinois Department of Human Services Division of Mental Health — OR — meets the definition of a Mental Health Professional (MHP) as defined by Illinois DHS DMH
High school diploma or GED required; Associate's or Bachelor's degree in human services, social work, psychology, or a related field preferred
Experience working with individuals with mental illness, substance use challenges, housing instability, or similar populations is strongly preferred
Valid Illinois driver's license and reliable transportation
Preferred Qualifications
Experience facilitating groups or recreational programming in a human services setting
Familiarity with WRAP, motivational interviewing, or other recovery-oriented frameworks
Knowledge of local Decatur/Macon County community resources
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Genuine commitment to recovery-oriented, trauma-informed, and Housing First values
Ability to engage effectively with individuals experiencing serious mental illness and co-occurring disorders
Group facilitation and activity planning skills
Strong interpersonal communication and active listening skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
Basic documentation skills and comfort with electronic health record systems
Reliability, flexibility, and ability to adapt to the varied needs of a community-based environment
Working Conditions
This position is primarily on-site at a Decatur supportive housing community center. Scheduled hours may include evenings and weekends based on programming needs. Community-based outings and transportation of clients may be required. The role requires the ability to be physically present and active during programming and events.
Salary
High School Degree/GED
$18.00/hour + every other Friday paid off
Mental Health Professional
$23.00/hour + every other Friday paid off
Bachelor's Degree
$25.00/hour + every other Friday paid off
What We Offer
Competitive salary commensurate with qualifications and experience
Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
Paid time off and holidays
Paid wellness day off every other week
Employer-sponsored retirement plan
Ongoing professional development, training, and CEU support
