Experienced Social Service professional with a proven track record in both nonprofit and government administration industries. Demonstrated expertise in Nonprofit Organizations, Social Media Management, Case Management, Mental Health, Program Development, Volunteer Recruitment, and Healthcare. Committed to making a positive impact in the community through strong community engagement and exceptional social services.
Hi, I’m
Leah Akannam
Human Resources Recruiter
Illinois
Summary
Overview
12
years of professional experience
Work History
One Hope United
Human Resources Recruiter
08.2022 - Current
Job overview
- Develop and implement sourcing strategies, actively sourcing candidates for mental health residential facility positions throughout the state of Illinois.
- Lead the full life cycle recruitment process, including posting positions and conducting assessment/interview processes.
- Utilize creative recruiting techniques to engage passive talent and expand the candidate pool.
- Provide expertise and guidance to hiring managers regarding talent acquisition strategies, market conditions, and industry trends.
State Of Illinois -DCFS
Child Protective Specialist
01.2020 - 08.2022
Job overview
- Assess the immediate safety of children and initiate necessary child protection interventions.
- Establish and maintain working relationships with community and state agencies.
- Provide recommendations and testify in court proceedings regarding investigative outcomes.
- Prepare detailed investigation reports, assess the validity of allegations, and maintain accurate records in the Statewide Automated Child Welfare Information System, ensuring compliance and facilitating effective case management.
Lessie Bates Davis Neighborhood House
Director of Public Relations
07.2018 - 01.2020
Job overview
- Develop and implement comprehensive public relations initiatives for multiple buildings and grant-funded programs, ensuring effective communication and brand visibility.
- Build and maintain business relationships with social services agencies, fostering collaborations to maximize program effectiveness.
- Plan and execute events, ensuring successful implementation and managing event budgets.
- Represent the organization in the community, engaging in networking, public relations activities, and speaking engagements.
Southern Illinois Collegiate Common Market
Life Skills Instructor
12.2017 - 09.2019
Job overview
- Instruct youth in essential life skills including money management, health, education, career planning, housing, personal and community engagement, transportation, parenting, prevention, and self-sufficiency.
- Maintain accurate documentation, including attendance logs, case notes, evaluations, and records of incentives and mileage, to track progress and ensure effective record-keeping.
- Report any attendance or communication issues with clients or foster families to the Grants Administrator for prompt resolution.
State Of Illinois - DHS
Human Services Caseworker
10.2013 - 05.2018
Job overview
- Manage a caseload of public assistance cases, including Aid to Families with Dependent Children, Medical Assistance No Grant (MANG), Food Stamps, TANF, Medicaid, and other programs.
- Effectively handle and oversee a caseload of public assistance cases, ensuring compliance.
- Regularly communicate and exchange information with community agencies to stay updated on new initiatives, changes in services, and eligibility criteria.
- Provide comprehensive assistance to clients, guiding them through the application and recertification processes.
Comprehensive Behavioral Health Center
Therapist I
01.2013 - 11.2013
Job overview
- Provide individual and family counseling, employing evidence-based approaches, to children and adolescents in need of therapeutic support.
- Offer compassionate and effective counseling services to address the emotional and behavioral needs of clients.
- Utilize evidence-based practices and therapeutic techniques tailored to the unique circumstances of each client.
- Foster a safe and supportive environment that encourages open communication and trust.
Places For People
Residential Specialist
01.2012 - 02.2013
Job overview
- Provide hands-on personal care assistance and support to clients with psychiatric disorders, criminal histories, and chemical dependencies.
- Ensure the health, safety, and welfare of clients, prioritizing their overall well-being in daily care and support activities.
- Serve as an advocate for clients, understanding their unique needs and referring them to relevant community agencies to access additional support and resources.
- Assist clients in acquiring, improving, and retaining essential life skills necessary for successful independent living.
Education
Lindenwood UniversitySaint Charles, MO
Master of Arts from School Counseling
12.2024
University Overview
Lindenwood UniversitySaint Charles, MO
Master of Arts from Public Administration
12.2017
University Overview
Southern Illinois University EdwardsvilleEdwardsville, IL
Bachelor of Arts from Psychology
05.2011
University Overview
Skills
Hear and resolve complaints, refer group grievances and/or more serious unresolved complaints as appropriate
Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access software
Develop ways to obtain and sustain relationships with community agencies
Develops appropriate employment opportunities that are aligned with the customers
Maintains awareness and fosters community contacts by maintaining contact with potential employers, placement personnel, or other likely placement resources
Timeline
Human Resources Recruiter
One Hope United
08.2022 - Current
Child Protective Specialist
State Of Illinois -DCFS
01.2020 - 08.2022
Director of Public Relations
Lessie Bates Davis Neighborhood House
07.2018 - 01.2020
Life Skills Instructor
Southern Illinois Collegiate Common Market
12.2017 - 09.2019
Human Services Caseworker
State Of Illinois - DHS
10.2013 - 05.2018
Therapist I
Comprehensive Behavioral Health Center
01.2013 - 11.2013
Residential Specialist
Places For People
01.2012 - 02.2013
Lindenwood University
Master of Arts from School Counseling
Lindenwood University
Master of Arts from Public Administration
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville
Bachelor of Arts from Psychology
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