Facing Forward To End·Chicago, Illinois
The Economic Advancement Advocate supports program participants in achieving financial stability and career advancement through individualized coaching and group workshops. They collaborate with community partners and employers to address barriers to employment and monitor participant progress toward self-sufficiency goals.
Economic Advancement Advocate (EAA)
Title: Economic Advancement Advocate (EAA)
Location: Sanctuary Place Office and scattered sites as assigned
Reports To: Family Empowerment Team (FET) Manager
Supervises: N/A
Status: Full-time/Exempt
$48, 838.09-$52,000
Facing Forward to End Homelessness (Facing Forward) ends the cycle of homelessness for families and individuals by offering hope, help, and housing. Facing Forward utilizes a Housing First model which provides permanent supportive housing to chronically homeless individuals, families, and veterans. Under this model, we first ensure that clients have a safe stable home and assist clients as they empower themselves - leading a forward-facing life. By providing permanent housing and a full array of services, including case management, referrals for substance abuse treatment, mental health support, education, and job training, we give people who have experienced homelessness the tools they need to reclaim their lives.
Facing Forward is committed to empowering all individuals to envision a brighter future.
We strive to ensure our approach reflects the unique paths that have led people to Facing Forward.
We are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment where each member of Facing Forward is empowered to be themselves, share ideas, and contribute to the mission and vision of the organization.
We believe we are stronger together and seek to serve as a foundation in partnership with clients, staff, vendors, and community partners.
In unity, we can work to prevent and end homelessness while guiding clients on their journey toward stability, health, and self-sufficiency.
The Economic Advancement Advocate (EAA) supports adults and program participants ages 18 and older in achieving financial stability, economic mobility, and long-term self-sufficiency. As part of the Family Empowerment Team (FET), the EAA provides individualized and group-based services focused on employment readiness, career advancement, financial literacy, education access, and workforce development.
Using a holistic, client-centered, and trauma-informed approach - the EAA works closely with participants to assess strengths, barriers, skills, interests, and career goals. The EAA assists clients with developing and implementing individualized economic advancement plans that support pathways to sustainable employment, increased earning potential, vocational training, apprenticeships, certifications, and higher education opportunities. They also help participants become empowered by providing guidance in resume development, interview preparation, job search strategies, digital literacy, workplace readiness, and financial capability. This role collaborates with employers, workforce agencies, educational institutions, and community partners to create opportunities and address barriers to employment such as transportation, childcare, housing instability, technology access, and gaps in employment history.
This position requires strong relationship-building skills, flexibility, and the ability to engage participants from diverse backgrounds who may have experienced homelessness, trauma, unemployment, or systemic barriers to economic advancement. Some evenings and weekends may be required. Home visitations and other community destinations, and a vehicle are also required.
Staff Development (10%)
Provide training and support to staff regarding workforce development, financial capability, and economic advancement resources.
Serve as a resource to staff on employment, education, and career pathway opportunities available to participants.
Assist with mentoring volunteers, interns, and students as needed.
Participate in professional development opportunities related to workforce development, financial coaching, trauma-informed care, Motivational Interviewing, and economic mobility practices.
Program Administration (20%)
Assist program leadership with program development, evaluation, reporting, and continuous quality improvement efforts.
Develop and track participant outcomes related to employment, income growth, financial stability, education attainment, and workforce participation.
Maintain accurate and timely case notes, participant files, service plans, and documentation.
Complete timely and accurate data entry into the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) and other required databases according to agency policies.
Prepare reports and collect data to support grant compliance, program evaluation, and funding requirements.
Utilize email, databases, and technology platforms to communicate effectively and complete assignments efficiently.
Protect participant confidentiality and maintain compliance with agency policies and procedures.
Participate in staff meetings, case conferences, trainings, and organizational events as required.
Support special projects, workshops, community events, and job fairs as assigned.
Perform other duties as assigned to meet the needs of the organization.
Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Human Services, Workforce Development, Education, Counseling, Business, or a related field from an accredited college or university preferred.
Minimum of two years of experience providing workforce development, employment services, career coaching, financial literacy education, or case management services to individuals experiencing homelessness, low-income populations, or underserved communities.
Valid driver’s license and proof of insurance required.
priorities may be required
Facing Forward to End Homelessness is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome and encourage
applications from individuals of all backgrounds. Employment decisions are made without regard to race,
color, religion, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry,
citizenship or work authorization status, age, disability, marital or family status, military or veteran status,
or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, Illinois, or Chicago law.
Reasonable accommodations are available during the application and hiring process. Applicants who
require an accommodation may contact humanresources@ffchicago.org
For benefits information, please see the attached document.
Candidates should possess a bachelor's degree in a related field and at least two years of experience in workforce development or case management. A valid driver's license and the ability to work with diverse populations impacted by homelessness or trauma are required.
Market context
In Illinois, Economic Advancement Advocate roles are often tied to workforce development, housing stability, and case management needs, especially in communities serving people affected by homelessness or trauma. These positions are competitive because employers look for candidates who can combine a related bachelor’s degree, two years of relevant experience, and strong relationship-building with diverse populations. Review the AI-summarized job requirements and benefits on this platform to save time, then tailor your application to show direct experience with workforce services, case management, and driving access for clients.