Katherine Wilkens

I am a passionate Licensed Social Worker with a deep enthusiasm for connecting the goals of stakeholders to the needs of the community. With a Master of Social Work concentrated in Community Practice for Social Change from the Jack, Joseph, and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences, I’ve developed a strong foundation in organizational effectiveness, community building, and person-centered approaches.

I have gained experience within the field through my current position, internships, and volunteer opportunities where I honed in on skills of grant administration, relationship building, communication, program development, and data analysis. I am particularly proud of developing a manual for a new Housing Navigation Program to help guide new hires through the process of housing navigation and smooth out impending bumps within the program.

I am eager to apply my skills in community building, program development, and data analysis as I continue to learn and grow in a professional setting. My strong work ethic, adaptability, and enthusiasm for learning will allow me to contribute effectively and take on new challenges as I continue my professional career.

Grant Administrator

Department of Community Development, City of Cleveland 

(April 2024- Present)

• Administer grants totaling over $14 million to local non-profits funding home repairs, pre-construction, and more in compliance with both Federal and Local guidelines
• Build, fix, and maintain relationships with local organizations who contract with the City to ensure clear communication, accountability, and effective use of resources
• Collect and analyze data within multiple software sites (Neighborly, PowerApps, Microsoft Suites) to develop reports and keep track of accomplishments for 10+ contracts

Financial Mobility Graduate Intern 

CHN Housing Partners

(August 2022-May 2023)

• Developed a training manual for a new Housing Navigation Program and position that included process for the program, technology assistance, and troubleshooting possible problems that will likely arise
• Completed intake process, explanation of program expectations, and documented paperwork with hundreds of clients with various tax needs for VITA tax site
• Became proficient in Microsoft Outlook, Teams, and Salesforce through consistent utilization and communication

Dream Coordinator

Believe in Dreams

(August 2021-May 2022)

• Created unique dream packages for 50+ dreamers with attention to detail for their specific visions, research on new topics, and creating a budget plan for each individual
• Conducted meetings, maintained consistent contact, and administer needs assessments with dreamers, families, and nominators
• Collaborated with staff, nominators, and community partners to brainstorm ideas, plan experiences, and connect families to resources based off their listed needs

Master of Social Work with a Concentration in Community Practice for Social Change 

Jack, Joseph and Morton Mandel School of Applied Social Sciences (Case Western Reserve University)

Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Criminology with Minors in Peace, Justice, and Human Rights; & Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies

John Carroll University