2026 BEDS Plus | Community Resource Navigator

2026 BEDS Plus | Community Resource Navigator The Community Resource VISTA will serve with BEDS Plus, Inc. in Summit, IL, from September 2026-2027. BEDS Plus is part of Housing Action Corps, an AmeriCorps VISTA program managed by Housing Action Illinois since 2010. Housing Action Corps members receive custom training, support, and networking opportunities in housing and community development, in addition to the traditional benefits of AmeriCorps VISTA. Learn more: housingactionil.org/americorps. The BEDS Plus mission is to help vulnerable individuals stabilize their lives through housing solutions and supportive services, particularly in the south and southwest suburbs of Chicago. Addressing homelessness and housing insecurity requires coordinated efforts, including housing assistance and robust wraparound services. The Community Resource VISTA will expand access to community-based support for clients by enhancing current relationships and establishing new ones. They will develop a Resource Hub that involves a searchable database of contacts and partners by location and service type. Throughout service they will identify service gaps, perform outreach to connect with new partners, and develop guidance for long-term maintenance of the Hub. Our ideal candidate will demonstrate excellent computer skills (Microsoft Office), written and verbal communication, and organizational skills. They should be able to complete assignments independently, as well as collaborate with team members to approach common goals. This role is a great fit for those interested in launching a career in social services, data analysis, and housing. BEDS Plus offers a $1,342 monthly housing stipend. Further help on this page can be found by clicking here. Member Duties : BEDS Plus collaborates with partners across 112 municipalities, but our current contact lists and referrals are inconsistently organized and updated. Streamlining access to community resources through a searchable database will help case workers find providers faster and improve supportive services. The Community Resource VISTA will systematically organize resources, develop new partnerships, and establish procedures for effective resource management by designing and piloting a new Resource Hub. The VISTA will research and develop a Resource Hub for case managers to identify community-based services. They will analyze data to identify high-need communities that are under-represented in the Hub. Collaborating with the Street Outreach and Community Relations teams, they will design a comprehensive community engagement strategy to connect with new resources and partners. They will also create a manual to maintain and expand use of the Hub. Program Benefits : Training , Childcare assistance if eligible , Living Allowance , Relocation Allowance , Choice of Education Award or End of Service Stipend , Health Coverage* . Terms Car recommended , Permits attendance at school during off hours , Permits working at another job during off hours . Service Areas Housing , Homelessness , Community Outreach . Skills Computers/Technology , Writing/Editing , Communications , Community Organization , Team Work .