Victim Advocate

POSITION DESCRIPTION: VICTIM ADVOCATE
Reports to: Victim Services Coordinator
FLSA Code: Exempt

POSITION SUMMARY:
The Victim Advocate works with an assigned caseload of participants who have been directly or indirectly affected by street violence to provide case management, crisis intervention, support and advocacy. In collaboration with street outreach and other service providers to deliver, connect/refer individuals and families impacted by violence to appropriate services and supports in the community. The response includes visits to crime scenes, a victim’s home, hospitals, and other health care settings to establish connections with the victim.

QUALIFICATIONS:
Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree preferred in a Human services field; must have a minimum of two years case management or related experience; or a combination of related college coursework and related work experience. Candidate must maintain a valid driver’s license along with daily access to a vehicle, proof of vehicle insurance.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provide direct case management and emergency support services to victims of violence and their families in community and in office
• Provide support and advocacy to the victims of violence and their families through home visits, phone calls, criminal justice advocacy, and referrals to other support organizations
• Coordinate and facilitate educational forums, family and group support sessions, trainings and other gatherings
• Develop and maintain relationships with partner organizations and build “warm referral” network for linkage
• Document and maintain client contacts and services provided and assist program manager with data collection and required reporting
• Complete assessments, progress notes and significant program data.
• Be available to provide direct response to shooting incidents 24/7.
• Work closely with outreach professionals to ensure connections and document follow ups.
• Collaborate with hospitals, attorney general offices, funeral homes and social services agencies to provide service to victims of gun violence.
• Provide immediate services to meet the needs of participants such as food, shelter, and clothing.
• Develop and maintain relationships with partner organizations.
• Assist victims in accessing resources such as Victim’s Compensation, Short Term Disability, affordable healthcare, and mental health services
• In conjunction with victims, identify and address safety concerns and create a safety plan for long term safety and well being.

Demonstrated Values:

• Independently follows agency policy and procedures
• Complete any other related tasks and responsibilities as assigned and required
• Follows through with commitments including meeting established timelines
• Identifies and resolves difficult issues
• Works effectively with diverse staff, communities and population served

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge and understanding of victim services, its goals and objectives.
• Ability to relate well to and coordinate with the people being served, solve problems, communicate effectively, gather and analyze data and make concise, accurate reports, and recommendations.
• Must have the ability to use initiative, discretion and independent judgment in making decisions.
• Must be able to develop and manage a team to achieve stated goals
• Must be able to develop and sustain relationships with external stakeholders
• Strong computer skills, including Microsoft Word, Excel, and Powerpoint
• Ability to demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, professionalism, and problem solving ability.
• Promote hospitality through all actions and behaviors
• Project a professional image to all internal and external customers ensuring correct grooming
• Ability to display a warm, supportive attitude toward all people
• Ability to demonstrate initiative and follow through, and be comfortable working in a changing environment.
• Demonstrate willingness to consistently improve work performance through their relationship and guidance.
• Must possess an accurate and informed understanding of cultural and urban realities, especially as related to youth, families, poverty, and community development.

Work Environment:
The typical work environment is in an office located within a transitional housing facility. Noise will be moderate to high depending on activities in the center.

Physical Demands:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations will be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk and hear. The employee is frequently required to sit, stand, stoop, and walk. Must be able to stand for prolonged periods of time. Must adhere to proper handling and lifting techniques.

The employee must occasionally lift and or move up to the 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.

Safety Requirements:
Prior to first day of work, must complete a criminal background and sex offender clearance. Candidate cannot have any pending criminal cases.

Equipment Used:
Employee will generally use general office equipment including but not limited to: telephone, computer, calculator, copier, paper shredder, paper cutter, and filing systems.

Supervision:
Direction received from the Victim Services Coordinator. Does not supervise employees.

Job Type: Full-time