Victim Advocate

Description The YWCA Mohawk Valley is dedicated to its mission of eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. Job Summary: Provide crisis intervention and supportive counseling to victims/survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Support victims/survivors in decision-making by providing correct information and available options regarding information and referrals; court, law enforcement, medical and social services advocacy/accompaniment. Advocating that the rights of the victims/survivors of domestic and sexual violence are being met. Gather information and data pertaining to victims/survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Advocate/accompany victims/survivors as they navigate court, law enforcement, medical and social services systems. Inform victims/survivors of all Crisis Services programming including shelter, groups, counseling and 24-hour hotline. Follow up with victims/survivors through court hearings; police intervention and hospital accompaniment and status of case. Assist victims/survivors file crime victims compensation application/follow up. Maintain current information on laws; policy and procedures regarding domestic and sexual violence. Maintain positive working relationships with community agencies, courts, law enforcement, and medical professionals. Make child abuse mandated reports to registry as appropriate. All other duties as assigned. Available “on call” weeknights and weekends as scheduled. Requirements Position Specifications: Education: Associates’ degree in human services; criminal justice; social work or related field preferred or 2 years’ experience in the field of domestic and sexual violence. Required, Specialized, or Technical Knowledge: Acceptance and support of the YWCA Mission Ability to interact with staff, residents and/or agencies while maintaining confidentiality Well organized and Flexible Strong written and verbal communication skills Ability to work independently with little or no supervision Ability to work with and interact with diverse populations Must have reliable transportation and the ability to travel Knowledge of Microsoft computer software. Expectation for all Employees: Supports the organizations mission, vision and values by exhibiting the following: Integrity Respect Commitment Compassion Credibility Expertise Teamwork Physical Requirements: Equipment Used: Computer, fax, adding machine, telephone, voice mail, copier. Must hold a valid driver’s license and insurance and be able to travel as necessary. Physical Activities: Climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, walking, grasping, talking, hearing. Physical Demands: Sedentary work exerting up to 25 pounds of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. Visual Acuity Required: Heavy acuity is required in this position. Work Conditions: There is no substantial exposure to adverse environmental conditions with the exception of weather-related travel conditions. #J-18808-Ljbffr Ywca Mv