Victim Advocate

Sexual Assault Victim Advocate
Sexual Assault Advocate - VOCA

Overview:

The Sexual Assault Advocate is responsible for providing intervention and support to victim/survivors of sexual assault who access our services whether through the Sexual Assault Response team, law enforcement or those that request service on their own. They will respond to the 24 hour hotline and providing direct services to victim/survivors of sexual assault, their caregivers and family. The Advocate must be knowledgeable about the dynamics of sexual violence and be able to provide team oriented survivor-centered supportive services under the agency empowerment philosophy.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Provide individualized support, crisis intervention, safety planning, sexual assault services education, personal advocacy, and appropriate referrals for service recipients, caregivers and family.
• Respond to calls to the agency 24 hour crisis/information line
• Assist in developing survivor-centered action plans with survivor, Helping them identify their needs and referring them to the appropriate resource when request.
• Provide advocacy to survivors which includes assisting victims in securing rights, remedies and services from other agencies, securing medical intervention, locating emergency financial assistance, intervening with police, employers and or landlords to ensure safe, sensitive and effective response. This could mean assisting with working on policies and procedures relative to sexual violence with appropriate members of the community. Provide feedback in regard to the development of educational and informational resources for clients and the community
• Provide transportation for client necessary appointments regarding victimization and court proceedings/meetings with law enforcement.

Other Responsibilities:

• Complete data entry into agency service collection software

· Maintain client records including completion of all agency forms and documentations

· Maintain client files that ensure confidentiality.

· Complete tasks as assigned by supervisor within the time frame established.

· Provide timely and accurate report of monthly activities

· Attend and actively participate in staff meetings, case review, and supervision

· Attend community affairs as a representative of the agency

· Assist with planning for sexual assault/stalking/dating violence public awareness activities and education.

• Ensure cleanliness of office areas and assist with client needs.
• Ensure all facilities and equipment are maintained in good working order
• Identify and address any health or safety issues regarding agency facilities

· Seek out and participate in skill-building and training opportunities

· Perform other duties as requested by the Services Director or Executive Director

Minimum Qualifications or Special Requirements:

• Minimum of a high school diploma. College Degree in Human Services, Liberal Arts, Psychology, or related field preferred.
• Must be self-initiating person who can work independently.
• Familiarity with issues of sexual assault, and child abuse helpful
• Computer proficiency
• Outcome of criminal history background checks meets agency guidelines
• Valid driver’s license, access to a reliable vehicle for transportation and proof of auto insurance, and ability to transport clients daily or as needed.
• Ability to work varied shifts including daytime, evening, weekends and holidays as needed
• Ability to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds
• Excellent interpersonal and active listening skills
• Demonstrated communication skills

Personal Qualities:

• Interact in a professional, cooperative manner with other staff and volunteers
• Be empathetic while providing services and working toward an empowerment philosophy
• Be non-judgmental
• Be able to meet the client where they are in their survivorship.
• Be able to work in the family dynamic.

Classification: Non exempt

Hours and Days Expected: 40 hours per week including daytime, evening, weekend and holidays as needed including on call.

Salary Range: $17.00 - $22.00 per hour

Supervisor: SART Coordinator, Executive Director
Related keywords: criminal justice, victim advocate, social services, social work, psychology

Pay: $17.00 - $22.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person