East Coast Advocate

ZOE International • Lancaster, PA

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Advocate builds trauma-informed, strengths-based mentoring relationships with youth in Lancaster and Berks counties who have been identified as victims of Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children (CSEC) or as high risk for child sex trafficking. Advocates maintain positive working relationships with partnering community entities, such as social service agencies, youth programs, and county task forces, to facilitate an appropriate continuum of care and prevention education programming related to digital and relational safety and other anti-trafficking concepts. The Advocate also supports county anti-trafficking task force objectives by providing victim crisis advocacy during and after sting operations.

Requirements

• 2 or more years of experience in youth and/or victim services
• Ability to work non-traditional hours
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to take initiative on tasks and projects and maintain appropriate documentation
• Valid PA driver’s license and reliable transportation
• Current mandated reporter certification and state and FBI criminal clearances
• Ability to sign ZOE International’s statement of faith

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with child protective services and juvenile probation systems preferred
• Trauma-informed care knowledge and/or certifications preferred
• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in psychology, human services, counseling, social work, or similar field preferred

Responsibilities

• Maintain mentorship caseload of up to 15 youth in Lancaster and Berks counties (70%)
• Facilitate prevention programs and office hours at identified community agencies (20%)
• Maintain advocacy caseload of up to 5 adults in Lancaster and Berks counties (5%)
• Provide crisis intervention, advocacy, and/or accompaniment for victims of trafficking as directed during sting operations and task force investigations (5%)
• Maintain strong working knowledge of community resources
• Implement trauma-informed care principles with children and adults
• Coordinate services in collaboration with child advocacy centers, child protective services, law enforcement, probation, and other community partners
• Pursue ongoing professional development in the field of child sex trafficking

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree