
Cailin Benitez
@cailinbenitez
I build youth-led governance and engagement systems within homelessness response programs.
What I'm looking for
At All Chicago Making Homelessness History, I lead initiatives that strengthen the Chicago Youth Action Board’s governance, leadership pathways, and accountability structures. I designed its first formal engagement request process and built systems for onboarding, technology access, stipend administration, and long-term sustainability.
I bring experience connecting youth voice to systems change through Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program implementation, Continuous Quality Improvement activities, recruitment, and cross-functional planning. Previously at the University of Illinois Chicago, I coordinated orientation and student engagement programs, supported UIC Connection, and developed marketing and engagement strategies.
My foundation in crisis intervention and case management comes from supporting young people experiencing homelessness and youth involved in the juvenile justice system at Youth Outreach Services. I’ve coordinated shelter and community-resource connections, maintained compliant records, and created safety plans and life-skills materials for young adults.
Experience
Work history, roles, and key accomplishments
Project Lead
All Chicago Making Homelessness History
Jan 2025 - Present (1 year 8 months)
Led revision of the Chicago Youth Action Board Charter and designed its first formal engagement request process. Developed organizational systems for onboarding, technology access, stipend administration, and program sustainability.
Graduate Assistant - New Student and Family Programs
University of Illinois at Chicago
Jan 2024 - Jan 2025 (1 year)
Coordinated planning and logistics for UIC Orientation and non-orientation programming, including the re-imagination of the New Student Convocation. Developed marketing campaigns and managed social media communications to increase engagement.
Graduate Assistant - Student Engagement
University of Illinois at Chicago
Jan 2023 - Jan 2024 (1 year)
Supported implementation and operations of the Student Success Initiatives Incentive Program through project coordination and stakeholder engagement. Provided training and technical support for the UIC Connection platform and assisted with assessment and marketing strategies.
Assistant Program Aid - Center for Student Involvement
University of Illinois at Chicago
Jan 2022 - Jan 2023 (1 year)
Supported planning and execution of campus events, conferences, and engagement initiatives serving over 1,000 students. Managed recruitment, registration, and participant intake processes, and developed marketing materials to increase participation.
Homeless Youth Case Manager
Youth Outreach Services
Jan 2021 - Jan 2023 (2 years)
Managed cases of 10+ young adults experiencing homelessness, conducted assessments, and created individualized safety plans. Collaborated with YHDP and community partners to connect youth with housing and supportive services, and maintained documentation in HMIS and Credible.
Crisis Intervention Counselor
Youth Outreach Services
Jan 2021 - Jan 2023 (2 years)
Provided 24-hour crisis counseling and intervention through phone, face-to-face, and community-based support. Conducted assessments, coordinated emergency shelter placements, and maintained documentation while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams.
Juvenile Justice Case Manager
Youth Outreach Services
Jan 2021 - Dec 2021 (11 months)
Provided intervention and case management for at-risk youth involved in the juvenile justice system. Conducted assessments, developed safety plans, facilitated access to services, and managed case files with accurate documentation.
Education
Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework
University of Illinois Chicago
Master of Education (M.Ed.), Urban Higher Education (Educational Policy Studies)
2023 - 2025
Pursued a Master of Education in Urban Higher Education with a focus on Educational Policy Studies.
University of Illinois Chicago
Bachelor of Education (BA), Human Development & Learning
2018 - 2021
Earned a Bachelor of Education in Human Development & Learning.
Tech stack
Software and tools used professionally
Availability
Location
Authorized to work in
Salary expectations
Skills
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