Hamilton County Advocate

Women Helping Women•Cincinnati, OH

1d•$18 - $19•Onsite

About The Position

Are you interested in being part of an organization dedicated to preventing gender-based violence and empowering survivors? At Women Helping Women, we believe in the power of survivors to rebuild their lives and are committed to providing the support and resources they need to do so. We operate on the principle that survivors are the experts of their own lives, and our mission is to stand by them on their journey from immediate safety to long-term stability. Our success is rooted in a comprehensive approach that includes a 24/7 hotline, live chat, legal advocacy, hospital support, and support groups. We also provide crucial financial assistance, helping with immediate needs, housing, and the rebuilding of lives. Beyond direct support, we are actively engaged in prevention through community education and campus-based advocacy, working to create a world free of violence. Join us in making a tangible and lasting impact in the lives of individuals and the community. We're looking for a compassionate and dedicated General Advocate to provide direct crisis intervention and support to survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking. This role is crucial to our mission and involves a variety of hands-on responsibilities, from providing immediate crisis intervention and safety planning to offering long-term support through court accompaniment and support group facilitation. As a General Advocate, you'll be a frontline resource for survivors, empowering them by advocating for their needs based on their self-defined goals. You will provide essential services like telephone and one-on-one crisis intervention, information, and referrals to other resources. You'll also be responsible for maintaining accurate client records and participating in the evaluation of our program policies and procedures. This position requires someone who is not only a skilled advocate but also a reliable and empathetic presence for those in a time of need.

Requirements

A Bachelor's degree (BA/BS) in Social Work, Psychology, Mental Health, Human Services, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
Strong computer skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Office, databases, and email
Active Listening: The ability to listen without judgment and understand a survivor's needs and experiences.
Empathy and Compassion : A deep capacity to understand and share the feelings of another person, especially in a time of crisis
Crisis Intervention: The skill to provide immediate, short-term support to individuals in a state of emotional, mental, physical, or behavioral distress.
Advocacy: The ability to speak or write on behalf of a client and champion their rights and goals.
Confidentiality: A strict commitment to protecting a client's private information.
Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication to interact with clients, colleagues, and external partners. This includes explaining complex legal or procedural information clearly
Cultural Competency: The awareness and sensitivity to work with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including different cultures, genders, sexual orientations, and socioeconomic statuses.
Problem-Solving: The capacity to help clients navigate complex and often challenging situations, such as safety planning or legal proceedings.
Record-Keeping: Meticulous attention to detail for maintaining accurate and timely client records and case notes.
Boundary Setting : The ability to maintain professional boundaries to avoid burnout and ensure a healthy working relationship with clients.
Stress Management: The resilience and coping mechanisms to handle emotionally challenging situations and prevent secondary trauma.

Nice To Haves

At least one year of experience in crisis intervention, advocacy, or direct services within the fields of sexual assault or domestic violence.
Experience delivering training and educational programs.

Responsibilities

Provide direct crisis intervention and advocacy to survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence, and stalking.
Assist clients with safety planning and provide resources and referrals.
Offer telephone, one-on-one support and accompaniment to court, or other appointments.
Facilitate support and educational groups for survivors.
Maintain accurate records and documentation, ensuring confidentiality.
Advocate for survivors in alignment with their goals and with their consent.
Develop and maintain effective, professional, and collaborative relationships with others in the community.
Maintains access to reliable transportation and maintain insurance on vehicle(s) used for duties.