The Toledo Legal Aid Society seeks a dedicated Linkage Coordinator to work alongside an Assistant Public Defender In The Opportunity Project. This initiative is designed to enhance the legal representation of clients facing challenges such as substance use disorders, mental health concerns, and other barriers within the criminal justice system. The primary goal is to identify client needs earlier, establish meaningful connections/linkages to behavioral health and other services, improve case outcomes, and reduce recidivism. Please note this is not a clinical position.
Duties & Responsibilities:
In addition to consistent and reliable attendance, key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
• Conduct in-custody (e.g., Lucas County Corrections Center, Correction Center of Northwest Ohio) and out-of-custody client interviews in and out of court settings.
• Identify behavioral and mental health concerns, as well as other barriers impacting clients.
• Link with available services and supports as determined by clients to address their need(s).
• Collect, review, and provide documentation from past and current community service providers, including assessments and service recommendations.
• Develop, implement, and monitor individualized linkage plans as co-designed with our clients.
• Establish and maintain best practices for addressing client needs and facilitate the development of a database for tracking service access and referrals.
• Provide courtroom testimony, if necessary.
• Build and maintain relationships with community service providers; and develop and maintain a current knowledge-base of available resources and contacts.
• Advocate for solutions to address gaps in the criminal justice system that promote successful reintegration; and develop impactful strategies to better address the needs of individuals in and around the criminal justice system.
• Assist in developing grant proposals and alternative funding opportunities.
• Adhere to reporting and data tracking requirements.
• Collect and analyze outcome data on the effectiveness of The Opportunity Project and its associated programs and expansions, particularly regarding the intersection of behavioral health and the criminal justice system.
Salary & Benefits:
• Base Salary: $54,000. The salary offered may increase based on a structured formula accounting for independent or non-independent licensure, relevant experience, possession of a Master's degree, and other applicable credentials.
• Health Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance
• Additional Benefit: 501(k) Retirement Plan
Minimum Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Criminal Justice, or a related field, supplemented by prior experience in social services, criminal justice, or a related area.
• Equivalent combinations of education, training, and experience that provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities may be considered.
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license.
Preferred Certifications:
• CDCA, LCDC II/III, LSW, LPC, LISW, LPCC, LICDC
Skills & Qualifications:
• Experience working in criminal justice or with individuals with mental health disorders or behavioral health issues.
• Familiarity with substance use and mental health service referral and linkage processes.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Interest in social justice and criminal law.
• Willingness to visit clients in county jails or treatment facilities in and around Lucas County, OH.
• Strong oral and written communication skills and organizational abilities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and other relevant software.
• Ability to exercise judgment, problem-solving, and situational reasoning in complex cases.
• Demonstrated capacity for leadership, motivation, and independent decision-making.
Please send resume and cover letter electronically, by April 4, 2025 to:
Email: [email protected]
Subject: Linkage Coordinator Position
NLADA Mutual Insurance Co., RRG
