Victim Advocate

Victim Advocate – $40,000

Location: Joliet, IllinoisEmployment Type: Full-Time

About the RoleA Victim Advocate provides direct support, information, and resources to individuals who have experienced crime, trauma, or crisis. This role is on the front lines of community safety and recovery — you'll work alongside law enforcement, legal teams, and social service agencies to make sure victims don't navigate the system alone.

What you'll do- Meet with victims of crime to assess immediate needs and provide crisis intervention- Help clients understand their rights and navigate the criminal justice process- Connect individuals with community resources: housing, counseling, financial assistance, legal aid- Accompany clients to court hearings, law enforcement interviews, and other proceedings when needed- Maintain accurate case files and document services provided- Collaborate with prosecutors, law enforcement, and social service providers- Participate in community outreach and education efforts

About you- Bachelor's degree in social work, criminal justice, psychology, counseling, or a related field- Strong communication skills — written and verbal- Ability to stay calm and clear-headed in high-stress situations- Genuine empathy and a non-judgmental approach to working with people in crisis- Familiarity with trauma-informed practices is a plus- Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred but not required

What we offer- $40,000 annual salary- Meaningful work with measurable community impact- Supportive team environment- Opportunities for professional development and training in victim services