Child Advocate

YWCA of St. Joseph•Saint Joseph, MO

61d•Onsite

About The Position

Provide information, activities, support, and assistance to children and their parents who are survivors of domestic and/or sexual violence, while they are receiving services through YWCA programs. This role involves serving as the primary Case Manager for children and families in shelter, and supporting advocacy, programming, and service coordination for children in community programs like Bridges and Bliss.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in human services field or equivalent education and/or experience.
Prior experience working with children.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to maintain confidentiality.
Ability to effectively engage and build relationships with diverse populations.
Ability to work flexible hours, which may include evenings and weekends.
Access to private transportation, valid driver's license with insurance complying with minimum agency standards.
Must be able to pass State Child Abuse/Neglect screening & Criminal Background Check.

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of domestic & sexual violence dynamics preferred.
Knowledge of community resources preferred.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary Case Manager for children and families residing in shelter.
Support advocacy, programming, and service coordination for children participating in Community Survivor Services, including Bridges and Bliss programs.
Provide developmental, recreational, and educational opportunities/activities for children.
Safety plan with children.
Provide the child’s mother with non-violent options for discipline.
Provide or assist the child’s mother with accessing childcare options for internal groups and external employment.
Assist in arranging transportation for the child to attend school.
Assist in children’s food program implementation and documentation.
Facilitate evening child support/educational groups.
Maintain confidentiality of all service recipients in compliance with state and federal law and YWCA policy.
Provide information and assistance to victims in filing for Crime Victims Compensation.
Maintain knowledge of Missouri Child Abuse and Neglect Mandated Reported requirements and promptly report suspected abuse and neglect in accordance with state law.
Attend staff meetings and trainings as required and/or assigned.
Commitment to the YWCA mission of Eliminating Racism and Empowering Women.
Other related duties as required and/or assigned.