CRISIS INTERVENTION ADVOCATE

YWCA West Central Michigan•Grand Rapids, MI

2d•Hybrid

About The Position

This position offers critical crisis intervention and emotional support to survivors of intimate partner and sexual violence, while connecting them with vital resources such as housing, legal assistance, and counseling services. It also leads educational workshops, facilitates support groups, and promotes awareness of systemic issues including racism, gender-based issues, and poverty. Through strategic community partnerships and advocacy efforts, this role fosters meaningful change and strengthens support networks for those affected.

Requirements

Active listening and crisis intervention skills.
Experience in crisis intervention and knowledge of group and family dynamics.
Knowledge of community resources and the criminal justice system.
Ability to evaluate and respond to surroundings is required to perform duties.
Ability to communicate with individuals from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Physically able to: reach, pull, lift, grasp, talk, hear, see, and type.
Ability to concentrate for extended periods of time reviewing case materials, official documents, and statistical reports.
Must be able to enter and retrieve data using computer systems, systems applications, and other office equipment.

Nice To Haves

A bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, or a related field is preferred; however, relevant experience may be considered in place of formal education.
Knowledge of the facts and dynamics of sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking and child sexual abuse preferred.
Access to and willingness to use personal transportation for business purposes (mileage reimbursement provided per policy) preferred.
Ability to be an approved driver for the YWCA preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide evening coverage as part of a regularly scheduled rotation to ensure timely response to GRPD referrals and support survivor needs outside regular business hours.
Serve as backup to sexual assault volunteer advocates and act as on-call advocate when a volunteer is unavailable. This includes answering the YWCA Helpline and responding to Nurse Examiner Program (NEP) examinations (up to ten 12-hour shifts per month).
Maintain timely and accurate documentation and case records in compliance with grant and program standards.
Support data management and reporting functions for the Nurse Examiner and Crisis Advocacy programs, as needed.
Maintain collaborative relationships with law enforcement, medical professionals, court personnel, and other community service providers to support client needs and program goals.
Assist with training and consultation for interns and volunteers involved in crisis intervention and support groups, as assigned.
Attend and actively participate in team meetings, case consultations, supervision, and agency-wide staff meetings.
Performs community outreach and engagement that may include training and presentations.
Coordinate transportation to YWCA emergency shelter and meet client to provide a smooth transition when needed.
Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.