InVest Advocate

The Spring Of Tampa Bay Inc•Tampa, FL

16h•Hybrid

About The Position

Responsible to InVEST Manager and works cooperatively with law enforcement. Does not supervise other employees. May work with interns or volunteers. Interrelates with all staff members. Provides support and guidance to victims and survivors.

Requirements

Master’s degree in human services (or similar) preferred. Minimum of 2 years domestic violence experience required.
Bachelors degree in human services or similar degree is required with a minimum of 2 years experience working with victims of domestic violence.
Experience in court advocacy and/or negotiation.
Can function calmly in a crisis atmosphere.
Have knowledge of community resources and the ability to maintain a cordial working relationship with other agencies.
Have computer skills and can work in the Windows or above software programs and environments.
Must function independently while working cooperatively as a member of a team.
Must pass all required agency background checks and screenings.
Requires Domestic Violence Core Competency training plus an additional 6 hours of individualized training (30 hours total) to qualify for privilege status; must successfully pass written test
Valid Florida Driver’s License with at least two years driving experience, active automobile insurance and an acceptable Motor Vehicle Report.
Must be able to pass and maintain a Level II background check
Requires on-going 16-hours of DV related training after the first year.
Demonstrated maturity and good judgment.
Ability to handle crisis situations calmly and with expertise.
A self-starter and the ability to perform with a high degree of autonomy and as part of a team.
Ability to exercise independent judgment and decision making.
Excellent organizational, analytical and time management skills.
Excellent verbal and oral communication and presentation skills.
Knowledge of domestic violence and victim issues, including advocacy activities, statutes and impact on children
Maintains professionalism at all times, in all situations.
Reliable transportation required.
Willingness to be flexible with schedule.
Must be able to work with a culturally diverse community with sensitivity and professionalism.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in human services (or similar) preferred.

Responsibilities

Reviews law enforcement reports of domestic violence provided by collaborative law enforcement partners to determine those that are considered high risk. Will maintain documentation of same.
Advocate will attempt to contact the victim within 72 hours of the initial police report.
The advocate will strategize with supervisor to meet all InVEST program deliverables for survivor services.
The advocate will participate in the bi-monthly Domestic Violence Task Force meetings in order to advance the Community Coordinated Response model.
The advocate will provide training to the center’s hotline staff, outreach and shelter staff.
The advocate will attend other trainings on working with domestic violence survivors at high risk of homicide.
The advocate will participate in statewide quarterly meetings of InVEST programs.
Will participate in electronic trainings for technical assistance.
Will work towards completing all deliverables of the program.
Will participate in the quarterly Fatality Review Team meetings and will assist with the preparation for the Fatality Review Team meetings and compiling data for the Team.
Provides service management and/or counseling, or referrals for service management, for the victim/survivor/survivor to enhance prosecution or safety for the victim/survivor and her/his children. Document in participant’s file as appropriate.
Attends court hearings, trials and other events as appropriate.
Assists with monthly statistical reports and other reports that may be required by the agency.
Has a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of domestic violence, service programs, and confidentiality and privilege.
Service management and documentation meets the Florida Department of Children and Families program standards and Florida Statute.
Responsible for overseeing and managing participant service in compliance with organizational policies and procedures, contracts, DCF standards, and applicable laws.
Intercedes as necessary with members of the Clerk of Courts office, State Attorney’s office, law enforcement or judges on behalf of victims and survivors of domestic violence.
Educates victims and survivors on their options within the legal/judicial system.
Assists victims and survivors with completing paperwork that may be required by the judicial system in order to facilitate legal procedures.
Assists victims with filing victim’s compensation claims.
Maintains a good working relationship with all areas of the judicial system and law enforcement.
Obtains police reports from law enforcement partners.
Other duties as assigned.
Makes community education/awareness presentations as appropriate