Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Advocate
DOMESTIC VIOLENCE/SEXUAL ASSAULT ADVOCATE
POSITION OVERVIEW
The Domestic Violence/Sexual Assault Advocate provides support, advocacy, options and referrals to victims of domestic and sexual violence.
GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES
- Provide crisis intervention, follow-up, support, advocacy, information and referrals, in-person and over the phone, to survivors in residential and non-residential programs.
- Provide on-call support and emergency coverage. Serve as an emergency responder to support victims in crisis through referrals from law enforcement and hospitals coordinated and dispatched through the Crisis Line.
- Advocate on behalf of survivors working with community-based systems such as law enforcement, courts, social services, mental health providers, and substance abuse services.
- Develop and enhance positive working relationships with community partners to improve services and referrals provided to survivors.
- Conduct check-ins with clients and provide necessary follow-up advocacy.
- Document activities in agency database and ensure accuracy and timeliness of client files.
- Facilitate assigned support groups and info sessions.
- Provide assistant with direct service programs as needed.
- Participate in quality assurance monitoring, program planning and evaluation. Recommend changes in policies, procedures and programs to improve services provided.
- Attend community affairs as a representative of the organization.
- Must adhere to all safety and security policies, identify, and correct security breaches to assure a safe place for clients and co-worker.
- Maintain confidential files and keep confidentiality of crime victims.
- Keep up-to-date on domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking and human slavery issues, laws and community resources.
- Allow flexibility in scheduling and job function.
- All other duties as assigned by supervisor.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE/SKILLS
- Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology or Human Services preferred.
- Experience working with survivors of domestic violence and ability to respond supportively to persons in crisis. Must understand and respect confidentiality.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office and ability to learn agency database.
- Able to work as a team and with families of diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds.
- Able to work flexible hours in a fast-paced environment.
- Must have reliable transportation, insurance, a valid Michigan Driver’s License and a good driving record, with no restrictions. Must pass a criminal background check as a condition of employment and annually thereafter.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
None
SUPERVISOR
Advocacy Manager
POSITION TYPE/HOURS OF WORK
Full-Time, Professional. Flexible schedule based on agency need including some evenings and weekends.