TAMARA BLACKWELL
South Holland,IL
Summary
Dedicated care coordination and case management professional with deep expertise in supporting Medicare and Medicaid clients, including older adults and individuals with behavioral health needs. Proficient in document verification, information validation, service needs assessment, and care plan development. Strong background in facilitating access to Home and Community-Based Services and navigating community resources within Illinois state systems.
Overview
1
1
Certification
4
4
years of post-secondary education
20
20
years of professional experience
Work History
Mental Health Coordinator
Midwest Family Community Resource Center
Hazel Crest, IL
02.2023 - Current
- Gathered client information through interviews, observations, and assessments to identify needs and tailor appropriate support services.
- Provided individual and group support, assisting clients in developing strategies for managing challenges and facilitating connections to outside resources.
- Supported clients with dependency-related concerns, adjustment challenges, and behavioral changes to enhance their mental well-being.
- Maintain accurate, confidential treatment records and safeguard client information in accordance with HIPAA privacy expectations.
Senior Care Coordinator / Case Manager
Catholic Charities
Matteson, Illinois
09.2022 - Current
- Facilitated access to community-based services and supports for older adults and Medicare/Medicaid clients, enhancing their quality of life.
- Reviewed participant information and supporting documents for completeness and accuracy as part of the care coordination process; followed up on missing information or documentation.
- Coordinate referrals to community resources and services for participants and families, including support related to physical and mental health needs.
- Coordinated referrals to essential community resources and services addressing participants' physical and mental health needs, ensuring comprehensive support for families.
- Provide case management in accordance with Illinois Department on Aging requirements and help ensure home safety standards are addressed.
- Review participant information and supporting documents for completeness and accuracy as part of the care coordination process; follow up when information or documentation is needed.
- Use Illinois state systems, including PSS, to monitor participant status and maintain current participant information.
- Delivered case management per Illinois Department on Aging guidelines, ensuring compliance with home safety standards and enhancing participant well-being.
Substitute Teacher
ECUEA
East Chicago, IN
05.2022 - 08.2023
- Provided classroom instruction and facilitated discussions in accordance with teachers' lesson plans.
- Maintained attendance, assignment, and classroom records, ensuring accurate tracking of student progress in a safe, structured learning environment.
- Fostered an environment of mutual respect to enhance student engagement., participation, and student self-discipline.
Field Supervisor / Trainer
Transit 4 You
Homewood, IL
08.2020 - 02.2022
- Led a team of 15 employees in delivering supportive services to children and families within the child welfare system.
- Supervised a team of 15 employees providing services to children and families involved with the child welfare system.
- Supervised parent-child visits involving children from 6 weeks to 18 years old; documented observations, interactions, behaviors, and recommendations.
- Coordinated communication among DCFS caseworkers, foster parents, and staff to address concerns and ensure fulfillment of children's needs.
- Supported children with special needs, including autism, ADHD, and learning disabilities, through structured procedures and redirection.
Assistant Teacher
Bottle 2 Books
Calumet City, IL
07.2017 - 03.2018
- Maintained safe, supportive classroom environment while communicating regularly with parents and teachers to foster collaboration.
- Monitored and documented children's behaviors to enhance engagement in daily classroom activities.
- Assisted in organizing and facilitating classroom activities to promote student engagement. at Bottle 2 Books through reading and learning support.
- Assisted lead teacher with lesson setup, materials, and daily classroom routines.
- Supported classroom activities at Bottle 2 Books through reading and learning support.
Security Professional / Supervisor
Securitas Security Services
Chicago, IL
09.2006 - 12.2016
- Trained security staff on performance, safety, and operational procedures to enhance team readiness and response effectiveness.
- Monitored entrances, exits, and employee safety; conducted patrols and operated CCTV systems to ensure a secure environment.
- Prepared incident reports and maintained accurate records to support investigations and improve safety protocols.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Chicago State University
Chicago, IL 08.2017 - 05.2021
Skills
- Care coordination
- Needs assessment
- Medicaid support
- HCBS support
- Resource referrals
- Care planning
- Document verification
- Record validation
- Electronic health records
- HIPAA compliance
- Illinois state systems
- Crisis intervention techniques
- Interviewing skills
- Behavioral support
- Family education
Certification
- Certified Senior Care Coordinator, Illinois Department on Aging | 2022
- Certified Teacher Assistant, State of Indiana | 2022
Timeline
Mental Health Coordinator
Midwest Family Community Resource Center
02.2023 - Current
Senior Care Coordinator / Case Manager
Catholic Charities
09.2022 - Current
Substitute Teacher
ECUEA
05.2022 - 08.2023
Field Supervisor / Trainer
Transit 4 You
08.2020 - 02.2022
Bachelor of Arts - Psychology
Chicago State University
08.2017 - 05.2021
Assistant Teacher
Bottle 2 Books
07.2017 - 03.2018
Security Professional / Supervisor
Securitas Security Services
09.2006 - 12.2016