Forensic Service Advocate

This position contributes to the mission and work of the Valencia Shelter Services Child Advocacy Center and SANE Unit by providing advocacy, crisis support, and case management services to child and adult victims of sexual abuse, domestic violence, and child abuse as well as their non-offending/protective parents and caretakers in a culturally appropriate manner.

Qualifications:

· BA in Human Service field and/or any combination of education and training with the target population or 2 years relevant experience in human service-related field with some experience in working with adults and children. Bilingual strongly preferred.

· Experience working with diverse populations.

· Must be 21 years of age or older.

· Must have the ability to communicate effectively, orally and in writing.

· Ability to perform in crisis situation.

· Strong organizational skills.

· Ability to interact with residents in a caring manner while maintaining boundaries.

· Be part of a team with shelter and program staff.

· Must have specific training in the following areas within one year of employment with training documented (when possible) in personnel file:

· Must be able to complete all required NMCSAP/NMCADV/NMCSVANW/CVRC/CYFD/NCA training before assisting survivors.

· Maintains good physical and emotional well being.

· Demonstrates personal qualities such as good judgment, responsibility, and an ability to relate effectively with clients and family members.

· Must be able to pass a background check

Primary responsibilities include:

· Provide trauma informed and client centered advocacy for clients in the forensic services programs. This may include crisis intervention, emotional support, personal advocacy, and/or legal advocacy.

· Abide by confidentiality.

· Accompany clients in SANE Exams.

· Completing requited paperwork and maintaining client files.

· Participate in client staffing.

· Responsible for completing requited paperwork for funding sources and accreditation requirements.

· Turn in monthly paperwork by the 3rd of the month for the preceding month.

· Responsible for providing agency referrals and necessary information regarding resources to clients.

· Assist clients in obtaining resources when appropriate.

· Communicate with other professionals involved with the client/case as necessary.

· Retrieve and log all referrals upon receipt, including any clients who may have been formerly seen and are returning for services.

· Make appropriate referrals for follow-up services.

· Screen referrals to ensure they are in accordance with the mission of the agency.

· Conduct intake interviews with non-offending family and/or caretakers.

· Maintain client contact log and turn in report weekly to supervisor.

· Attending weekly forensic services meeting.

· Attend weekly meetings with Director of Forensic Services for reflective supervision.

· Assist in criminal and civil case tracking with MDT Specialist.

· Provide information and case management to victims of crime and their families, including assistance in applying for Victim Compensation.

· Attending multidisciplinary team meetings and other community partner meetings.

· Assist in tracking Sexual Assault Evidence Kits (SAEK’s) in the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) System.

· Keep families informed about the status of criminal proceedings and provide support as needed.

· Provide, or arrange for, court preparation services for children having to testify in court.

· Represent the agency in community events providing materials and education as well as conducting training in the community and to MDT’s.

· Be cross-trained and assist in the agencies and other support services when necessary.

· Other duties to be assigned as needed.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $20.00 per hour

Expected hours: No more than 40 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Patient demographics:

• Adults
• Children
• Older adults

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift

Application Question(s):

• Do you have a valid driver's license?
• Are you authorized to work in the United States?

Experience:

• human service: 2 years (Required)

Work Location: In person