Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Child Advocate

Susan B. Anthony Project•Torrington, CT

3d•$23 - $25•Onsite

About The Position

To support and facilitate the healing of victims and survivors of domestic and sexual violence and their families, by providing counseling, resources and legal, medical and other social service advocacy.

Requirements

Education and experience that may have been gained through relevant training, employment, or volunteer experience
Certification as a DV/SA counselor per statute
Knowledge of counseling and social services
Ability to understand and incorporate the dynamics of domestic and sexual violence into work
Excellent problem solving and follow up skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Platform, and/or other programs
Ability to participate as a member of a team to enhance agency communication and operation
Use of positive communications and proactive conflict resolution
Ability to work with other agencies, systems, board and volunteers
Daily access to a car with a valid CT driver’s license
Ability to lift and move 25 pounds
Patience and a sense of humor
Employees who are required to be certified to provide direct service to clients under the CGS 52-146K and the managers to these employees, are considered essential personnel. Their classification as essential personnel requires coverage of critical crisis services and residential presence during all shifts; daytime, nights, overnights, weekends, holidays, storms and other emergency situations

Responsibilities

Coordinate with other staff to provide crisis line coverage 24/7/365 and be available for after-hours shifts as required, including nights, weekends and holidays
Provide support counseling, advocacy, referral and follow-up for sheltered and non-sheltered clients using empowerment approach to enhance confidence and self-esteem
Complete shelter screenings and intakes (within 24 hours) per established intake guidelines
Welcome and orient new residents
Support residents in establishing and achieving short and long-term goals
Conduct case management meetings
Coordinate and facilitate client house meetings for shelter and TLP
Assist residents leaving shelter in transition to another living situation (including referrals, furniture, security deposits, applications)
Provide necessary cleaning of resident rooms upon exit. Prepare rooms for new resident arrival
Work to create a safe and clean-living environment by participating in cleaning the shelter
Accompany adult victims/survivors to a hospital or private physician, police and/or court when requested. To provide advocacy and/or emotional support upon victim's/survivor’s request.
Stay informed of all services, referral resources, legislation, and policies regarding victims/survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault
Maintain regular contact with community organizations/service providers to ensure effective referrals
Co-facilitate support groups and make every effort to provide childcare, if necessary
Assist with community education and provide in-services as requested
Provide information, application assistance and support for Victim Compensation funds
Maintain and provide service data/statistics as required
Complete age-appropriate intake for each child and accompanying care provider upon entering residential programs and explaining residential life to children using one-on-one counseling and other materials
Plan/coordinate outings and activities, to promote self-esteem and healing, provide fun and therapeutic opportunities for children. Make contacts with agencies and businesses to ensure affordable/free activities for children i.e. bowling and YWCA
Meet regularly with each mother/care provider to provide support and information, assess needs and make referrals for the children
Facilitate parenting groups for residents weekly and arrange for other professionals to provide information to residents (i.e. nutritional, personal safety)
Offer children's group (residential and non-residential children) as needed
Provide individual counseling sessions and advocacy for non-residential children as needed
Keep playroom at advocacy and counseling center, as well as play yard, in clean, orderly and safe place for children and keep all children's equipment/supplies clean, in working order, inventoried and stored properly
Maintain awareness of ways in which the program/shelter meets the needs of children including health and safety issues and social and emotional needs
Serve as an ambassador for Susan B. Anthony Project. Participate in events, programs and promotions of awareness and advocacy
Other duties as assigned to further the mission of the agency