Crisis Hotline and Intake Advocate

Safe Berks•Reading, PA

13h•Onsite

About The Position

Safe Berks provides a safe haven and support for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault through education, advocacy, and a relentless commitment to prevent abuse. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where individuals can be their true selves and feel empowered to stand up to all forms of oppression. The Crisis Hotline and Intake Advocate will answer phone calls and text messages on a 24/7 hotline/text line service for survivors of domestic and sexual violence. This role involves conducting phone screens, intake interviews, and assessments to identify survivors’ immediate needs, including seeking emergency shelter. The advocate will provide options of counseling, information on protection orders, and referrals to appropriate Safe Berks services and community resources. This position is considered essential and requires onsite work during inclement weather, outages, emergencies, and/or authorized administrative office closures to ensure continued 24/7 operations.

Requirements

1 – 3 years’ experience working in the Human Services field or performing advocacy work
High school diploma or equivalent degree required
Completion of a background check request; FBI, State Police, and Child Abuse Clearances obtained within required timeframe under Act 153 through agency vendor
Successful completion of required Advocate Training provided by agency
Valid driver's license, current vehicle registration, acceptable driving record, and PA Minimum Liability insurance coverage of $15,000 Bodily Injury per person / $30,000 Bodily Injury per accident and $5,000 Property Damage, or $35,000 Combined Single Limit, if your position requires operating a personal or organization owned vehicle.
1 – 2 years of experience in the social or human services field
Prior experience working with individuals experiencing crisis required
Completion of 66-hour Sexual and Domestic Violence Training provided by agency
Valid driver’s license and insurance are required to travel to client sites

Nice To Haves

Associate's degree in human services or related field preferred. A degree can be substituted for equivalent and relevant employment experience.

Responsibilities

Answer phone calls and text messages on a 24/7 hotline/text line service for survivors of domestic and sexual violence.
Conduct phone screens, intake interviews, and assessments to identify survivors’ immediate needs, including seeking emergency shelter.
Provide options of counseling, information on protection orders, and referrals to appropriate Safe Berks services and community resources.
Work closely with Case Managers and Residential Services Advocates to coordinate entry/exit of Safe House residents.
Provide in-person medical advocacy, response, support and referrals to victims and survivors at local healthcare facilities as needed.
Cross-train with Rapid Response advocate to provide support, and advocacy to victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault at the Berks County Courthouse, including specific information about the process of filing an emergency petition and/or temporary petition for Protection from Abuse Order (PFA), Sexual Violence Protection Order (SVPO), and Protection from Intimidation Order.
Crosstrain with Residential Services Advocates to provide trauma informed support to Safe House residents and their children by assisting in maintaining a welcoming, safe, and supportive community living environment.
Conduct safety/security rounds in the building during assigned shift; complete necessary verbal and written reports; complete logs as required; follow up on safety-related issues and concerns; and contact medical, law enforcement, and fire personnel in the event of an emergency.
Utilize language access services to effectively communicate with LEP individuals.
Maintain records in accordance with agency standards and complete and submit required documents as assigned.
Arrange transportation for clients when appropriate.
All other duties as determined by the Department Director.