Denise Wilson
Chicago,IL
Summary
Compassionate social services professional with 5+ years of experience in community outreach, resource coordination, and crisis management. Proven ability to build trust with diverse populations and connect families with vital local housing and food programs.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Domestic Violence Co- Located Advocate
Family Rescue/DCFS
CHICAGO
10.2022 - 01.2026
- Provided legal advocacy to domestic violence victims, ensuring access to protective legal measures
- Connected the community to essential resources, improving support for domestic violence survivors
- Collaborated with States Attorneys, Detectives, and Police on felony and misdemeanor cases to facilitate victim safety
- Prepared Civil Emergency Orders of Protection, expediting legal protection for clients
- Accompanied clients to court and provided emotional support, reducing client stress during legal proceedings
- Provided resources to DCFS, enhancing agency capacity to address domestic violence cases
- Collaborated with DCFS' Investigation & Permanency department regarding DV, streamlining case management
- Completed DV consultations, offering expert guidance to improve client outcomes
- Collaborated with social workers to develop effective strategies for client advocacy and support.
- Advocated for clients' best interests in court proceedings, achieving favorable outcomes through strategic representation.
Corrections Counselor
Salvation Army Pathway Forward Program
Chicago
02.2019 - 10.2022
- Assisted residents in a Federal Halfway House by providing emotional support and monitoring compliance
- Performed bed counts and monitored GPS bands, ensuring resident accountability and safety
- Monitored inmate progress by maintaining detailed records of counseling sessions, treatment plan updates, and behavioral observations.
- Evaluated program effectiveness using data-driven methods to ensure continuous improvement in correctional counseling services provided within the institution.
- Built trust with inmates through active listening skills, empathy, and consistent follow-through on treatment goals discussed during counseling sessions.
Direct Service Professional
RANDOM ACT OF KINDNESS
Chicago
05.2015 - 07.2019
- Promoted alternative behavior strategies to support client development
- Managed up to 12 persons with learning and mental disabilities, ensuring individualized care
- Implemented daily individual goals, tracking progress for each client
- Orchestrated group outings for 6 clients, enhancing social integration
- Escorted clients to and from day programs, ensuring safety and punctuality
- Advanced Microsoft Word skills to streamline documentation and reporting
- Facilitated daily living activities for individuals with disabilities, promoting independence and dignity.
- Implemented individualized care plans to meet diverse needs, ensuring consistent support.
- Monitored client progress and documented observations to inform care adjustments effectively.
- Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams to coordinate services and improve client outcomes.
Security Guard/ Lead Officer
SECURITAS SECURITY SERVICES
Chicago
08.2012 - 01.2014
- Trained employees to ensure compliance with security protocols
- Addressed complaints promptly, maintaining a safe environment
- Resolved problems efficiently to minimize disruptions
- Provided assurance that all security requirements were met, reducing risk
- Directed work assignments to optimize team performance
- Monitored premises to ensure safety and security of personnel and property.
- Collaborated with law enforcement during emergencies, fostering effective communication and response protocols.
- Responded promptly to incidents, ensuring swift resolution and minimal disruption.
- Trained new security personnel on protocols, promoting team efficiency and adherence to standards.
- Responded quickly to emergency situations to assess and deflect issues.
Education
Associate Of Applied Science - Criminal Justice
Olive Harvey College
10300 S Woodlawn 05.2015
Skills
- Strong understanding of trauma- informed care practices
- Experience in legal advocacy and knowledge of the court systems
- Ability to manage high-stress situations and remain calm under pressure
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Problem-solving
- Organization
- Active listening
Timeline
Domestic Violence Co- Located Advocate
Family Rescue/DCFS
10.2022 - 01.2026
Corrections Counselor
Salvation Army Pathway Forward Program
02.2019 - 10.2022
Direct Service Professional
RANDOM ACT OF KINDNESS
05.2015 - 07.2019
Security Guard/ Lead Officer
SECURITAS SECURITY SERVICES
08.2012 - 01.2014
Associate Of Applied Science - Criminal Justice
Olive Harvey College