Advocate

General Position Information:
This specific job description covers the basics functions, qualifications, requirements, working conditions and skills necessary, but not limited to for successful fulfillment of this position in accordance to the standards of the company.

Position Summary:
The Advocate is responsible for providing case management for survivors of domestic violence, which includes providing information about crime victims' rights, crisis stabilization, safety planning, law enforcement and victim advocacy, assisting in securing stable housing, assisting in identifying and securing employment, and service planning in support of recovery and self-sufficiency. This position will also facilitate support groups and provide referrals.

Job Specifications/Qualifications: (Min. knowledge, skills, and abilities required) .
Education/Training (or equivalent): H.S. Degree College Degree* Certification/License*
*A combination of education and experience may be considered
- Bachelor's Degree in Social Work or related field preferred
- Core Competency certification preferred
Experience (Type of work experience, min. number of years):
- 2+ years of experience in domestic violence field preferred

Technical or Administrative Knowledge:
- Knowledge of Microsoft Office Productivity Tools (MS Word, Excel, outlook, Powerpoint)

Special Skills and Abilities:
- Ability to work independently
- Ability to work with people in crisis and deescalate situations using verbal and nonverbal communication skills
- Excellent public speaking skills and ability to provide training in formal and informal settings
- Must possess a valid Florida Driver's License and have reliable transportation

Job Functions, Unique Duties, and Responsibilities:
Essential Functions include, but are not limited to, the following:
General
• Follow the administrative guidelines and policies established by HVA.
• Maintain a community image consistent with the HVA mission.
• Engage in a relationship with The Haven of HVA Program Team which is proactive, mutually beneficial, fosters teamwork, and advances the mission of HVA.
• Exercise due care and stewardship of resources which are given to HVA including equipment, food, money, volunteer and staff time.

Advocacy and Case Management
• Provide comprehensive case management, which includes providing information about crime victims' rights, crisis stabilization, safety planning, law enforcement and victim advocacy, assisting in securing stable housing, assisting in identifying and securing employment, and service planning in support of recovery and self-sufficiency.
• Provide referrals to local community partner agencies.
• Facilitate support groups to empower survivors of domestic violence to obtain their goals, such as employment and securing affordable housing.
• Collaborate with community agencies including, but not limited to, local literacy programs, career centers, Job Links, Dress for Success programs and local libraries.
Program Support
• Regularly update team members regarding resource listings and the status of participants receiving or soon to be receiving services.
• Update participant files weekly.
• Collect, organize, and enter data into appropriate formats for the WS database and other funders' databases weekly.
• Develop self-knowledge of issues domestic violence, laws, policies, and case histories.
• Participate in training opportunities including: the mandatory 24 hour Core Training and 6 shadowing hours to be registered for confidentiality and privilege; maintain 17 hours of domestic violence training per year.
• Attend staff meetings and local community meetings.

Other
• Assist with other duties as assigned.