Child Advocacy Specialist

CASA of Travis County • Austin, TX

1d • $50,000 • Onsite

About The Position

We are looking for a Child Advocacy Specialist (CAS) who can supervise volunteers as they advocate for the most vulnerable children in Travis County.
CASA of Travis County believes every child who's experienced abuse or neglect deserves to have a dedicated advocate speaking up for their best interest in court, at school, and in our community. To accomplish this, the team at CASA educates and empowers community volunteers who ensure each child's needs remain a priority in an overburdened child welfare system. Through honorable and respectful involvement with families, courts and all parties, CASA makes independent and educated recommendations that prioritize children’s safety and, wherever possible, preserve connections to their families.
As a CAS, you will guide and supervise a team of volunteer advocates by providing guidance, coaching and feedback as they advocate for the best interest of the children to whom they are assigned. Advocacy occurs in a variety of settings including courtrooms, classrooms, medical and therapy settings. You will be expected to work effectively with families and legal parties with varying experiences and perspectives, as well as exhibit an understanding of child and family advocacy issues as it relates to the child welfare system.
At the end of your first year, success would mean managing a team of 18-20 volunteers with a full caseload with a clear understanding of CASA’s, trauma-informed care principles, and CASA's role within the child welfare system. The CAS is a critical role to move CASA of Travis County towards meeting our vision of quality advocacy, a safe home and a promising future for every child in Travis County. Use the following link to apply:

Requirements

• A Bachelor’s degree is required however, in lieu of a degree, significant professional relevant experience may be considered.
• Spanish fluency preferred.
• Experience in providing staff or volunteer supervision and ability to manage people.
• Demonstrated ability to concisely and clearly convey and interpret information to and from others, orally and in writing.
• Demonstrated ability to work under time constraints, be goal-oriented and maintain productive and effective performance and interaction with Volunteer Advocates and clients.
• Demonstrated ability to work respectfully with others, regardless of differing perspectives.

Nice To Haves

• Demonstrated understanding of child and family advocacy issues related to the child welfare system.
• Demonstrated resilience, flexibility and self-awareness.

Responsibilities

• Supervises volunteer advocates in their role as “Court Appointed Special Advocates” (CASA) and Guardians ad Litem for the children to whom CASA of Travis County is appointed.
• Provides informed and consistent guidance, coaching and feedback to volunteer Advocates as well as encouragement and praise.
• Ensures the high standard of performance of services of CASA of Travis County

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level