Advocate

Safe Harbors of the Finger Lakes Inc•Geneva, NY

About The Position

Provides crisis intervention and advocacy services for individuals in Yates, Ontario, and Seneca County who have experienced domestic and family violence, child abuse, and sexual violence. Conducts client needs assessments, makes referrals to other victim services, and connects clients with community resources. Provides trauma-informed advocacy, maintains case documentation, and supports clients with various needs. Educates clients about eligibility for the Office of Victim Services, advocates in family court, and ensures compliance with laws and policies.

Requirements

Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.
Demonstrated ability to effectively present in public forums.
Skilled in addressing and discussing sensitive issues.
Ability to establish and maintain networks of professional relationships.
Strong organizational and time management skills, demonstrating a capacity to effectively prioritize tasks and meet deadlines.
Proficient in multitasking and managing workload efficiently under pressure, while maintaining professionalism and composure.
Ability to demonstrate cultural awareness and sensitivity to other perspectives.
Demonstrated flexibility to adapt to different work and communication styles of colleagues and clients.
Demonstrated ability to solve problems using analytical skills and abilities.
Demonstrated ability to maintain composure and professionalism under stress.
Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
Regularly required to walk, sit, use hands; and reach with hands and arms.
Manual dexterity is required, including the frequent ability to grasp in both hands and continuous use of fine manipulation skills in both hands.
Must occasionally lift and/or move up to 20 pounds.
Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee may be exposed to various weather conditions.
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
Occasional exposure to bodily fluids.

Responsibilities

Conducts comprehensive assessments of client needs during the initial crisis period, provides referrals to other victim services, and facilitates connections with additional community support services for additional assistance.
Manages a caseload and ensures timely and accurate completion of case notes with the Agency database.
Provides trauma-informed advocacy by helping clients with goal planning, offering crisis intervention, developing safety plans, and providing consistent follow-up services to ensure ongoing support.
Educates clients about their eligibility for the Office of Victim Services and guides them through the application processes as necessary.
Provides assistance and support to victims through family and/or criminal court proceedings.
Accompanies and advocates for clients during hospital visits and Forensic Rape Exams ensuring they receive the necessary medical and emotional support.
Offers clear information and direct assistance to clients obtaining Family Court Orders of Protection.
Maintains and cultivates professional relationships with community agencies and attends community meetings to foster collaboration.
Participates in outreach activities and agency awareness events to promote services and increase community engagement.
Covers a 24-hour hotline for approximately four weeks per year offering immediate support and guidance to individuals in crisis.
Performs additional duties as assigned by management.