Lead Advocate (TUC - Strength United)

California State University, Northridge•Northridge, CA

21h•$20 - $22

About The Position

About The University Corporation: The University Corporation is a non-profit auxiliary corporation providing commercial and administrative services to California State University, Northridge. Our mission is to provide services and solutions that address the needs of California State University, Northridge; to support the academic, research, and creative endeavors of its students, faculty, and staff; and to enhance the quality of campus life. Mission: Strength United is committed to transforming trauma and violence into empowerment, advancing systemic healing, and developing leaders for lasting change. Overview: Reporting directly to the Clinical Program Manager, the Lead Advocate plays a pivotal role in providing comprehensive support services to clients in need. This position requires a proactive approach in client advocacy, crisis intervention, and multi-disciplinary collaboration.

Requirements

Must pass a Criminal Clearance
Must possess strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Must have excellent computer skills, including the ability to use both Mac and PC platforms and use Microsoft office and database programs
Must demonstrate the ability to use communication skills that successfully convey and obtain accurate and complete information in a respectful and caring manner.
Have a basic knowledge of body language and non-verbal communication.
Understand and demonstrate active listening skills.
Must be a critical thinker, reasoning, organizing and analyzing information so that problems are accurately understood and solutions are congruent with client’s capacities and outcome orientated.
Capacity to negotiate and collaboration to ensure the client’s successful receipt of services.
Demonstrate the skill of advocating for the needs and rights of people.
Must show a passion and sensitivity for trauma work.
Demonstrated experience to maintain cooperative working relationships with others; be team oriented; coordinate/collaborate with professionals from multiple agencies whilst maintaining appropriate boundaries and client confidentiality.
Must demonstrate an acceptance and respect for cultural diversity in all its forms, including ethnicity, sexual orientation, abilities, and religious backgrounds and an ability to work collaboratively in an ethnically linguistically, and culturally diverse environment.
Access to a reliable vehicle, valid California Driver’s license and proof of automobile insurance
Must Maintain personal cell phone

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree is a plus.
Bilingual English/Spanish is required.
Experience working with sexual assault survivors as a part of a Sexual Assault Response Team is strongly desired.
If the selected candidate is not already certified by the state of California as a Sexual Assault Counselor advocate the candidate will have to attend the requisite training to obtain the certification.
Past teaching experience will be helpful in assisting clients improve and develop necessary skills to promote well-being.

Responsibilities

Maintain trauma-informed care and confidentiality
Adhere to legal reporting requirements
Conduct intake documentation and ensure client needs are met promptly
Supervise and participate in hotline operations, including nights and weekends
Provide crisis intervention and emotional support
Provide case management and linkages to resources
Accompany survivors to medical and court/legal proceedings
Coordinate with onsite service providers and assist in obtaining restraining orders
Ensure timely follow-up and expedited access to counseling services
Maintain accurate activity tracking forms and client records
Document all client interactions and referrals in timely manner
Advocate for clients with onsite partners
Act as a liaison between clients, law enforcement, medical professionals and other professionals to ensure clients’ needs are effectively addressed
Support filing applications with the Victim Assistance Program
Enhance the Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) through assessment, implementation, and evaluation
Engage existing MDT members and recruit new members strategically
Coordinate client referrals across agency programs
Provide cross-training to partner agencies and Sexual Assault Response Team members
Participate in volunteer recruitment and training initiatives
Supervise and support other advocates as needed
Increase awareness of advocacy resources and materials