Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
Certification
Accomplishments
References
Timeline
Generic

Lauren Hightower

Chicago

Summary

Senior High Risk Intervention Specialist with Volunteers of America Illinois, skilled in case management and trauma-informed care. Passionate about empowering individuals through support and resources. Dedicated to community service and enhancing clients' quality of life.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Senior High Risk Intervention Specialist

Volunteers of America Illinois
Chicago
02.2025 - Current
  • Provided general in-person case management services, and home visits for veterans transitioning to permanent housing.
  • Developed person-centered, individualized service plans for each Veteran enrolled in the program.
  • Maintains client files, notes, and records.
  • Completes monthly outreach to external partners and potential referrals.
  • Conducts monthly home visits, and weekly check-ins.
  • Provides housing navigation and employment resources.

Girl Scouts Troop Leader

VOA Illinois
Chicago
01.2022 - Current
  • Established first community Girl Scout troop in Englewood.
  • Developed leadership and entrepreneurship skills while fostering healthy friendships.
  • Coordinated multi-level programming with fellow troop leaders to enhance engagement.
  • Integrated programming with Hope Manor II summer camp to create inclusive 'Scouts' for all genders.

Program Services Assistant Manager

VOA Illinois
Chicago
03.2024 - 02.2025
  • Oversaw program services at Hope Manor II and Hope Manor Joliet.
  • Provided case management, mental health counseling, substance abuse support, and community referrals.
  • Collaborated with property management to assist clients with rental arrears.
  • Advocated for clients by negotiating with community agencies and service providers.
  • Supervised interns while enhancing the intern program at organization.
  • Utilized EchoVantage for client data entry and management tasks.
  • Generated monthly, quarterly, and yearly reports on program performance.

MSW Intern

Hope Hall - VOA Illinois
Melrose Park
09.2023 - 06.2024
  • Conducted intakes and screenings to assess client needs.
  • Performed bag checks and routine room inspections for safety compliance.
  • Provided weekly group and individual therapy sessions to enhance client support.
  • Facilitated entertainment nights to promote social engagement among clients.
  • Monitored and distributed daily medication to ensure adherence.
  • Executed monthly file review audits to maintain accurate records.

Client Support & Service Coordinator

VOA Illinois
Chicago
08.2022 - 12.2023
  • Facilitated programs and events for residents on HMII/HMV Campus to enhance community engagement.
  • Provided weekly group clinical sessions focused on trauma-informed care for formerly homeless veterans.
  • Utilized ServicePoint for data entry, case management, and monitoring of case plans.
  • Hosted life skills classes, mental health groups, and Girl Scouts activities to support resident development.

Patient Service Coordinator

University of Chicago Medicine
03.2021 - 08.2022
  • Maintained comprehensive patient information and unit inventory for accurate record-keeping.
  • Monitored patient admissions, discharges, transfers, and surgeries to ensure seamless operations.
  • Filed patient paperwork and updated unit information to support efficient workflow.
  • Adhered to HIPAA guidelines by respecting patient rights and ensuring confidentiality.

Education

Master of Social Work -

DePaul University
Chicago, IL
06-2024

BA - Journalism

DePaul University
Chicago, IL
06-2018

Skills

  • Case management and counseling
  • Trauma-informed care
  • Group facilitation and crisis intervention
  • Community outreach

Certification

  • Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW)
  • RISE Program - Institute for Nonprofit Practice
  • IMCANS + IMCAT Certified
  • Mental Health First Aid Certified
  • Mandated Reporter

Accomplishments

  • VOA Employee Recognition Award 2022 - MVP Award
  • VOA Employee recognition Award 2023 - Community Cares Award
  • ABC7 & FOX News Feature

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Senior High Risk Intervention Specialist

Volunteers of America Illinois
02.2025 - Current

Program Services Assistant Manager

VOA Illinois
03.2024 - 02.2025

MSW Intern

Hope Hall - VOA Illinois
09.2023 - 06.2024

Client Support & Service Coordinator

VOA Illinois
08.2022 - 12.2023

Girl Scouts Troop Leader

VOA Illinois
01.2022 - Current

Patient Service Coordinator

University of Chicago Medicine
03.2021 - 08.2022

Master of Social Work -

DePaul University

BA - Journalism

DePaul University

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