Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Illinois Probation Officer Award
Timeline
Generic

Wendy Wesolek

Wonder Lake,IL

Summary

Retired Probation Officer with a proven track record at McHenry County Probation and Court Services. Excelled in offender supervision and fostering client relationships, significantly enhancing caseload efficiency and interdepartmental collaboration. Skilled in risk assessments and crisis intervention, I was known for exceptional communication and problem-solving expertise, driving positive outcomes in community corrections and mental health services.

Equipped with strong problem-solving abilities, willingness to learn, and excellent communication skills. Poised to contribute to team success and achieve positive results. Ready to tackle new challenges and advance organizational objectives with dedication and enthusiasm.

Overview

34
34
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Court Program Assistant

McHenry County College Traffic Safety School
09.2023 - Current
  • Assist in the development of program schedules, ensuring smooth operation and timely completion.
  • Coordinate with team members to facilitate program activities and enhance overall efficiency.
  • Manage program documentation to maintain accuracy and accessibility.

Probation Officer

McHenry County Court Services
02.1991 - 09.2023
  • Maintained compliance with all legal statutes, policies and procedures.
  • Determined appropriate supervision levels by conducting risk and needs assessments.
  • Established productive relationships with local law enforcement agencies, enhancing information sharing and cooperation.
  • Increased efficiency in caseload management through the use of advanced technology tools such as electronic monitoring devices and case management software systems.
  • Maintained organized offender records and documentation in compliance with department and legal standards.
  • Wrote progress reports and testified under oath at court hearings.
  • Ensured compliance with court-ordered sanctions by closely monitoring probationers'' adherence to conditions of release.
  • Evaluated people on probation to determine best course of rehabilitation.
  • Participated in ongoing professional development opportunities to stay current on best practices in the field of community corrections.
  • Conducted investigations into violations and other allegations.
  • Adhered to legal requirements by performing office, home, and employment visits.
  • Supervised offenders to reduce risk to community.

Case Worker

Ecker Mental Health Center
08.1990 - 02.1991
  • Assessed needs of each client and recommended appropriate services and resources.
  • Monitored case progress for timely completion and compliance with applicable regulations.
  • Established trusting relationships with clients, fostering open communication and rapport building.
  • Assessed and evaluated clients' needs, determined eligibility for services, and developed individualized plans.
  • Maintained up-to-date records on all clients, enabling accurate monitoring of progress and appropriate case planning adjustments.
  • Maintained high level of client confidentiality, following strict guidelines, and recommendations.
  • Collaborated with multidisciplinary teams for improved client outcomes and coordinated care.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice

Southern Illinois University, Carbondale
Carbondale, IL
05-1990

Skills

  • Documentation
  • Case planning
  • Offender supervision
  • Report writing
  • Risk and needs assessments
  • Adult probation
  • Interdepartmental collaboration
  • Exceptional communicator
  • Public speaking
  • Court procedures
  • Presentence investigation reports (PSI)
  • Intake procedures
  • Courtroom testimony
  • Court filings
  • Crisis intervention techniques
  • Court testimony
  • Verbal and written communication
  • Interviews
  • Problem solving expertise
  • Presentence investigations
  • Court report documentation
  • Juvenile probation
  • Cognitive behavioral training
  • Juvenile diversion programs
  • Electronic monitoring
  • DNA indexing
  • Drug testing
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Problem-solving
  • Time management

Certification

  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Techniques for Corrections Professionals – Various training providers.
  • Mental Health First Aid Certification - National Council for Behavioral Health.
  • Motivational Interviewing Certificate Program – Various training providers.

Illinois Probation Officer Award

I received two separate distinguished probation officer awards in my career.

Timeline

Court Program Assistant

McHenry County College Traffic Safety School
09.2023 - Current

Probation Officer

McHenry County Court Services
02.1991 - 09.2023

Case Worker

Ecker Mental Health Center
08.1990 - 02.1991
  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy Techniques for Corrections Professionals – Various training providers.
  • Mental Health First Aid Certification - National Council for Behavioral Health.
  • Motivational Interviewing Certificate Program – Various training providers.

Bachelor of Arts - Criminal Justice

Southern Illinois University, Carbondale
Wendy Wesolek