Open To Work
Heather L. Johnson
Detroit,MI
Summary
A results-driven macro social work professional with extensive background in program design, implementation and sustainability. Known for fostering collaborative environments and achieving exceptional results through innovative strategies, partner engagement and strategic approaches. Reliable and adaptable, excelling in dynamic settings while leveraging key skills in project management and talent development.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
Work History
Director of Workforce Development
FORCE Detroit
01.2025 - Current
- Develop a robust portfolio of workforce development partners to support economic pathways for communities in Detroit impacted by gun violence and incarceration.
- Engage community members impacted by gun violence with trauma informed care practices.
- Support the sustainable employment pathways of communities impacted by gun violence, trauma and incarceration.
- Develop partnerships/MOUs with community partners to support sustainable employment pathways for violence impacted communities.
- Develop, track and maintain a budget aligned with funding guidelines.
- Develop a strategic plan and logic model to support the development and sustainability of the workforce development department within FORCE Detroit.
- Develop a workforce curriculum to support the development of employability skills that lead to sustainable employment pathways along with social and economic mobility for returning citizens.
- Selected and assigned instructors to conduct specific training programs.
- Drove departmental performance and achievement of service levels through focused team operational reviews, structured coaching, and managing to enterprise targets.
- Researched and obtained relevant course materials to achieve training objectives.
- Directed training programs and development paths for managers and supervisors.
- Developed departmental systems and procedures to better align workflow processes.
- Organized and edited training manuals, multimedia visual aids, and other educational materials.
- Analyzed effectiveness of training programs at all levels and recommended updates.
- Developed comprehensive workforce training programs to enhance employability and skill sets of participants
- Collaborated with community partners to identify job opportunities and align training initiatives with local workforce needs and partnering with Fair Chance Hiring partners.
- Implemented performance tracking systems to monitor participant progress and program effectiveness
- Facilitated workshops on resume writing, interview skills, and professional development for diverse audiences.
- Led strategic planning sessions to drive continuous improvement in workforce development services.
- Mentored staff in best practices for participant engagement and program delivery.
- Evaluated program outcomes to inform decision-making and optimize resource allocation.
- Advocated for policy changes to improve access to job training resources within the community.
- Empowered clients by providing individualized career counseling sessions focused on goal setting, action planning, and skill building.
- Leveraged data analytics tools to track program outcomes, utilizing insights to make informed decisions about resource allocation and strategic planning.
- Launched successful apprenticeship partnerships that combined classroom instruction with hands-on experience, increasing participant readiness for skilled employment positions.
- Championed diversity initiatives within hiring practices to foster an inclusive workplace culture that valued varied perspectives and experiences.
- Mentored staff members through regular feedback sessions on performance improvement areas while celebrating successes and achievements to boost morale.
- Streamlined processes for grant applications and reporting, ensuring timely submission and compliance with funding requirements.
- Enhanced workforce development programs by identifying skills gaps and aligning training with industry needs.
- Collaborated with educational institutions and industry partners to develop relevant curricula that prepared learners for in-demand occupations.
- Facilitated cross-functional collaboration between departments for coordinated efforts in achieving organizational objectives related to workforce development.
- Spearheaded community outreach efforts to raise awareness about available workforce development resources and enhance organizational visibility within target markets.
- Established partnerships with local businesses to create customized on-the-job training opportunities, leading to increased employability for program participants.
- Designed comprehensive career services, including resume writing workshops, interview coaching, and job search assistance, resulting in higher placement rates for program graduates.
- Developed innovative recruitment strategies to attract diverse talent pools and increase the number of qualified candidates.
- Led a team of dedicated professionals in delivering high-quality services and support to program participants and partnering organizations.
- Evaluated program effectiveness using data-driven assessments, implementing necessary changes to improve outcomes continually.
- Negotiated agreements with external service providers for cost-effective solutions that supported operational goals without compromising quality standards.
- Managed budgets and resources efficiently to maximize the impact of workforce development initiatives on targeted populations.
- Implemented tailored employee development plans, resulting in improved overall performance and job satisfaction.
- Promoted lifelong learning by creating accessible professional development opportunities for incumbent workers seeking career advancement.
- Collaborated with community partners to identify job opportunities and align training initiatives with local workforce needs.
Director of Housing and Supportive Services
Neighborhood Service Organization (NSO)
08.2024 - 01.2025
- Analyzed departmental needs and crafted strategic goals and objectives to align with organizational vision.
- Contributed to the success of the strategic plan by driving results that support both organizational and departmental initiatives.
- Conducted research on grant opportunities to enhance organizational growth and funding prospects.
- Ensured adherence to department and NSO policies and procedures to enhance operational effectiveness.
- Analyzed management and supervisory concerns to effectively support and implement decisions made by senior leadership.
- Oversaw budget formulation and ongoing management to align with strategic financial objectives.
- Monitored and enforced adherence to administrative policies to streamline departmental operations.
- Collaborated with stakeholders in Homeless Action Network of Detroit to enhance outreach and resource distribution.
- Engaged with cross-functional teams within NSO to streamline service delivery processes and boost operational efficiency.
- Coordinated efforts among diverse state and community organizations to promote shared goals and objectives.
- Managed a team of housing case managers, housing specialists, and consumer advocates to ensure effective client support and resource allocation.
- Developed and communicated performance standards for team members to align efforts with organizational goals.
- Collaborated with direct reports to define measurable performance objectives that drive individual and team success.
- Compiled and submitted accurate reports to enhance data integrity in the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS).
- Developed and implemented policies to improve housing access for underserved populations.
Program Manager, Financial Support Services
Corktown Health
Detroit, MI
03.2023 - 04.2024
- Collaborated with Vice President of Programs & Community Impact and leadership team to advance organizational mission and strategic objectives within designated areas.
- Generated strategic ideas aimed at improving current programs and introducing new services to align with operational goals.
- Facilitated collaboration among program coordinators, associate managers, and program leads to achieve strategic objectives.
- Cultivated leadership skills and provided mentorship to program coordinators, associate managers, and program leads to enhance team effectiveness.
- Oversaw adherence to funder requirements to achieve established service goals and performance metrics.
- Led initiatives to enhance quality and performance standards.
- Coordinated site visit logistics and executed audit procedures to maintain operational standards in assigned regions.
- Synthesized and reported data insights to inform organizational leadership, funders, staff, patients, and the public on key initiatives and outcomes.
- Engaged with community stakeholders to promote agency initiatives and foster collaboration.
- Developed strategic partnerships with organizations and businesses to enhance referral sources for patient and client service integration.
- Achieved increased community engagement through effective outreach activities promoting services and education. Aligned initiatives with broader organizational objectives to maximize impact.
- Developed and shared strategic communication materials aimed at reaching specific populations within assigned program areas.
- Engaged with stakeholders to foster and sustain productive relationships across departments.
- Directed and guided direct reports through mentorship and evaluation, ensuring effective management coverage and support for additional team members when necessary.
- Engaged in recruitment, disciplinary actions, and termination procedures to maintain workforce integrity.
- Coordinated access to medical care and behavioral health services, leveraging community resources to optimize client benefits and support.
- Executed thorough documentation practices to maintain integrity and completeness of patient/client data across designated systems and formats.
- Facilitated alignment with Vice President of Programs & Community Impact to meet contract stipulations, emphasizing service objectives, work plans, performance standards, care quality, and financial oversight.
- Led community needs assessments and strategic program planning to optimize resource allocation. Developed and evaluated programs, adapting them to meet evolving community needs and opportunities.
- Cultivated a professional atmosphere that encourages teamwork and mutual respect among patients, clients, families, and staff. Championed effective customer service and problem-solving strategies to enhance client satisfaction.
- Developed and updated operational practices to promote effective patient care, employee engagement, and risk management.
- Upholds compliance efforts.
- Monitored adherence to privacy practices and confidentiality protocols in accordance with HIPAA and relevant contractual requirements.
- Led administrative functions to support organizational goals by chairing committees and overseeing direct report evaluations. Managed submission of timesheets for direct reports. Developed organizational policies and drafted memos to streamline communication. Organized and facilitated meetings to drive collaboration.
- Addressed patient and client complaints promptly to ensure satisfaction and maintain trust.
- Led cross-functional teams to develop and implement comprehensive health programs.
- Streamlined project workflows, enhancing communication and collaboration among stakeholders.
Surge Staff Team Lead (Workforce Initiative)
Center for Disease Control Foundation (CDCF)
Remote
10.2021 - 07.2022
- Directed field staff operations and collaborated with CDCF state health departments and incident management task forces to ensure effective response efforts.
- Partnered with Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) to implement effective COVID-19 mitigation measures.
- Coordinated interactions among field staff, local health department site leads, and state health department or intermediate school district program leaders to streamline operations.
- Developed and nurtured collaborative relationships with state health department personnel and program leaders to ensure effective program execution.
- Analyzed program performance metrics and communicated monthly insights to regional coordinator, focusing on surge staff contributions and potential improvement strategies.
- Coordinated daily operations and performance of up to 50 field employees within designated regional or state areas.
- Facilitated resource mobilization initiatives for assigned programs through collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
- Researched and interpreted key COVID-19 datasets to maintain up-to-date knowledge in the field.
- Facilitated project support to enhance public health and safety collaborations by identifying local partners and managing data collection and dissemination.
- Led cross-functional teams to implement public health initiatives and improve community outreach programs.
- Developed training materials and conducted workshops to enhance staff competencies in disease prevention strategies.
Resource for Independent Skills Enhancement (RISE)/YIT Program Supervisor
The Youth Connection Career Academies
Detroit, MI
04.2021 - 10.2021
- Engaged with community partners and attended collaborative meetings to promote programs and recruit participants.
- Managed development of program workshops and ensured effective orientation and training for participants.
- Managed case workflow by coordinating assessments, ensuring timely services, accurate documentation, and measurable progress.
- Directed case management operations and collaborated with community programs to provide individualized services effectively.
- Collaborated in establishing comprehensive policies and procedures to enhance TYCCA program effectiveness.
- Successfully streamlined report preparation and expedited the processing of invoices and payment requests, enhancing program efficiency. Optimized procurement procedures and effectively addressed information requests. Contributed to the creation of compelling presentations and grant proposals, driving project success.
- Facilitated limited direct services by coordinating case management and transportation for participants as needed.
- Facilitated successful summer youth employment program outings, enhancing participant learning and engagement. Achieved effective worksite monitoring, contributing to a positive and compliant program environment. Strengthened community partnerships through collaborative event planning and execution.
- Executed diverse tasks as assigned to enhance program participants' quality of life.
Social Economic and Mobility Manager
Matrix Human Services
Detroit, MI
05.2019 - 04.2021
- Assisted in organizing Kresge NextGen cohort meetings and travel webinars related to grant program activities. Supported team members in engaging with program initiatives and resources. Participated in discussions to enhance program effectiveness.
- Managed relationships with community-based organizations to strengthen collaboration. Oversaw partnerships to align organizations with matrix's programming initiatives.
- Facilitated partnerships with matrix adult social mobility centers and other programs to enhance grant management through effective project evaluation and development.
- Evaluated existing initiatives and identified potential avenues for Matrix to broaden its two generational programming in Detroit.
- Managed comprehensive grant activities and fundraising efforts, ensuring alignment with the objectives of the Matrix Social Mobility Initiative.
- Orchestrated comprehensive project strategies for internal agency initiatives, driving improvements in data collection and resource network collaboration.
- Collaborated on the development of advanced data collection systems aimed at improving grant application effectiveness for Kresge NextGen initiatives.
- Conducted comprehensive assessments of key metrics to provide insights on Kresge grant outcome
- Developed and implemented mobility programs to enhance client accessibility and transportation solutions.
- Collaborated with community organizations to improve service delivery and resource allocation for mobility initiatives.
Program Director: Michigan Adolescent Pregnancy and Parenting Program (MI-APPP)
Wayne/RESA Pathways Academy
Detroit, MI
11.2015 - 05.2019
- Managed comprehensive oversight of Eaton Regional Education Service Agency's grant initiatives, focusing on planning and implementation efforts.
- Facilitated strategic planning and collaboration on pregnancy prevention efforts with MDHHS to enhance community health outcomes.
- Analyzed data and prepared quarterly reports for MDHHS, focusing on pregnancy prevention efforts within the teenage population.
- Organized and managed resources to support the needs of pregnant and parenting teens.
- Oversaw integration of various objectives and strategies to support the successful implementation of Eaton Regional Education Service Agency's strategic plan and RESA.
- Collaborated in the design and implementation of RESA steering committee meetings and agendas.
- Analyzed community needs and integrated evidence-based strategies into comprehensive planning for teen pregnancy prevention programs.
- Coordinated data collection efforts, implemented surveys, evaluated outcomes, reported findings, and executed action plans to ensure grant objectives were met.
- Established connections between RESA project activities and health initiatives, enhancing collaboration with pregnancy prevention partnerships and coordinated school health teams.
- Monitored and reviewed program staff activities to maintain high standards of quality and compliance.
- Compiled a comprehensive list of resources tailored for pregnant and parenting teenagers to facilitate access to necessary support.
- Engaged with community stakeholders to foster alliances and promote shared objectives.
- Developed and implemented strategic educational programs to enhance student engagement and achievement.
- Collaborated with stakeholders to align program goals with community needs and resources.
Case Manager
Michigan Adolescent Pregnancy and Parenting Program (MI-APPP)
Detroit, MI
09.2014 - 11.2015
- Assisted participants with intake assessments and annual baseline evaluations. Supported annual reassessments and facilitated goal setting. Aided in developing long-term service plans and weekly case plans. Monitored progress regularly.
- Employed motivational interviewing and positive youth development strategies to guide youth in achieving goals and completing programs successfully.
- Aggregated and analyzed case manager data to produce comprehensive quarterly reports for the State of Michigan.
- Assessed client situations and implemented appropriate crisis intervention measures as required.
- Supported clients in accessing community resources to fulfill identified objectives.
- Assisted in interpreting intake and baseline assessment data to create comprehensive service plans. Identified service gaps to enhance program effectiveness. Supported coordination of partnerships for collaboration and referrals.
- Maintained ongoing support and communication with 50 program participants within the AFLP program framework.
- Collaborated with community stakeholders to deliver essential resources and supportive services within Pathways Academy for participants and students.
- Coordinated regular meetings with participants on a daily, weekly, or bi-weekly basis to foster collaboration.
- Coordinated and conducted monthly in-person meetings with each participant, including essential quarterly home visits.
- Established links between participants and accessible community resources to enhance support services.
- Conducted outreach to community organizations to secure supportive services tailored to client needs on caseload.
- Coordinated outreach efforts to participants and agencies for comprehensive tracking of referral effectiveness.
- Maintained integrity of client information by inputting precise and comprehensive data into CFA (Grantee) database.
- Facilitated clear communication of assignments and instructions to data entry clerks to ensure accurate client data entry and tracking.
- Identified and matched participants with suitable internship and job training options to enhance career development.
- Coordinated interdisciplinary team meetings to enhance service delivery and client outcomes.
- Facilitated individualized case plans for adolescent parents, ensuring access to essential resources.
Supervisor/Life Coach/ Youth Assistance Program Coordinator
Vista Maria
Dearborn Heights, MI
08.2013 - 07.2014
- Oversaw program operations and evaluated staff performance to ensure effective service delivery.
- Conducted comprehensive interviews and assessments of new clients by evaluating data across social, medical, educational, emotional, drug/alcohol, training, and employment histories.
- Oversaw scheduling and management of outside assessments in psychological and medical testing to support patient care initiatives.
- Facilitated prompt execution of initial assessments to support operational efficiency.
- Coordinated and led life skills workshops while providing individualized coaching to enhance client development.
- Implemented resource coordination and fostered relationships with caring adults through permanency pacts, family finding initiatives, and various supportive tools.
- Achieved improved outcomes for homeless youth aging out of foster care by actively participating in advocacy groups and professional organizations. Influenced community service enhancements, resulting in greater accessibility and efficiency for youth transitioning to independence.
- Maintained precise records to support statistical analysis for program and client documentation, fulfilling requests from program management.
- Engaged clients' families and essential support figures to create a robust safety net of assistance.
- Supported clients in developing skills aimed at achieving greater self-sufficiency and confidence.
- Assessed client needs during crisis situations and implemented necessary referrals for further assistance.
- Performed regular evaluations of program effectiveness to inform program director of necessary adjustments.
Collage Prep Mentor Coordinator
Vista Maria
Dearborn Heights, MI
12.2011 - 01.2013
- Guided at-risk youth in weekly discussions focused on life skills development and future planning.
- Designed structured educational programs to enhance learning experiences for students and mentors in every session.
- Navigated and resolved conflicts during mentoring sessions to foster a positive learning environment.
- Oversaw planning and execution of college tours and cultural field trips to enhance student engagement. Coordinated with educational institutions to optimize learning experiences. Managed schedules and resources to ensure successful outings.
- Cultivated relationships with potential mentors and volunteers to strengthen mentoring program participation.
- Developed and executed lunch and learn programs at businesses, focusing on engaging and recruiting volunteers.
- Created structured logic model to support program objectives and improve participant outcomes.
- Coordinated assessment sessions at the start and conclusion of the mentoring program to measure participant growth and satisfaction.
- Oversaw weekly mentoring program operations, ensuring effective mentor-mentee pairings and engagement.
- Achieved successful mentor engagement through effective orientation and training programs.
- Outlined and coordinated programming efforts in partnership with executive leadership team to enhance operational effectiveness.
- Drafted and refined proposal to attract 21st century funding, supporting the expansion of STEM initiatives at Vista Maria campus.
- Negotiated and secured financial support from PNC Foundation, AT&T, and PepsiCo to address programming requirements.
- Coordinated mentorship programs to enhance youth development and engagement.
- Developed training materials to support mentor-mentee relationships and learning outcomes.
Policy Analyst to Kenneth V. Cockrel, Jr.
Detroit City Council
06.2002 - 07.2010
- Analyzed policy proposals to assess impact on community needs and resources.
- Collaborated with stakeholders to gather insights and inform legislative decisions.
- Coordinated public engagement efforts to enhance transparency and civic participation in policymaking.
- Developed comprehensive reports summarizing findings and recommendations for council review.
- Conducted research on local government regulations to support policy development initiatives.
- Participated in industry conferences and workshops as a subject matter expert to stay current on emerging trends in public policy analysis.
- Developed data-driven policy recommendations for better decision-making and resource allocation.
- Developed policy briefs that summarized key findings from research activities, highlighting implications for future action and providing actionable recommendations for decisionmakers.
Education
Master of Science - Social Work
Wayne State University
Detroit, MI05-2000
Master of Social Work - Macro Practicum
Wayne State University
Detroit, MI05-2002
Bachelor of Science - Social Work
Wayne State University
Detroit, MI05-2000
Skills
- Training facilitation
- Workforce analytics
- Organizational development
- Recruitment strategies
- Staff development
- Career counseling
- Curriculum design
- Cross-functional teamwork
- Workforce planning
- Teamwork and collaboration
- Relationship building
- Continuous improvement
Accomplishments
- Achieved 90% employment rate as Director of Workforce Development by leveraging community partners that participated in trauma informed care and Fair Chance Hiring practices.
Timeline
Director of Workforce Development
FORCE Detroit
01.2025 - Current
Director of Housing and Supportive Services
Neighborhood Service Organization (NSO)
08.2024 - 01.2025
Program Manager, Financial Support Services
Corktown Health
03.2023 - 04.2024
Surge Staff Team Lead (Workforce Initiative)
Center for Disease Control Foundation (CDCF)
10.2021 - 07.2022
Resource for Independent Skills Enhancement (RISE)/YIT Program Supervisor
The Youth Connection Career Academies
04.2021 - 10.2021
Social Economic and Mobility Manager
Matrix Human Services
05.2019 - 04.2021
Program Director: Michigan Adolescent Pregnancy and Parenting Program (MI-APPP)
Wayne/RESA Pathways Academy
11.2015 - 05.2019
Case Manager
Michigan Adolescent Pregnancy and Parenting Program (MI-APPP)
09.2014 - 11.2015
Supervisor/Life Coach/ Youth Assistance Program Coordinator
Vista Maria
08.2013 - 07.2014
Collage Prep Mentor Coordinator
Vista Maria
12.2011 - 01.2013
Policy Analyst to Kenneth V. Cockrel, Jr.
Detroit City Council
06.2002 - 07.2010
Master of Science - Social Work
Wayne State University
Master of Social Work - Macro Practicum
Wayne State University
Bachelor of Science - Social Work
Wayne State University
Civic Engagement
Advisory Council Member, Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) Hubs, 2025-01-01, Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Policy and Planning Bureau