Safe Advocate

Safe Berks•Reading, PA

12d•Onsite

About The Position

Safe Berks provides a safe haven and support for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault through education, advocacy and a relentless commitment to prevent abuse. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment where individuals can be their true selves and feel empowered to stand up to all forms of oppression. This position is considered essential. To ensure continued 24/7 operations this position is required to work onsite during inclement weather, outages, emergencies, and/or authorized administrative office closures.

Requirements

1 – 2 years of experience in social or human services field
High school diploma or equivalent degree required
Completion of a background check request; FBI, State Police, and Child Abuse Clearances obtained within required timeframe under Act 153 through agency vendor
Successful completion of required Advocate Training provided by agency
Valid driver's license, current vehicle registration, acceptable driving record, and PA Minimum Liability insurance coverage of $15,000 Bodily Injury per person / $30,000 Bodily Injury per accident and $5,000 Property Damage, or $35,000 Combined Single Limit, if your position requires operating a personal or organization owned vehicle.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with children and their parents preferred

Responsibilities

Provide trauma informed support to residents and their children and assist in maintaining a welcoming, safe, and supportive community living environment.
Assist with the orientation process and respond to immediate needs of new residents while maintaining professionalism, sensitivity, and confidentiality at all times.
Conduct safety/security rounds in the building during assigned shift; complete necessary verbal and written reports. Complete logs as required; follow up on safety-related issues; contact medical, police and fire personnel in the event of an emergency.
Assist with intake and discharge of residents.
Assist with meal preparation and distribution when necessary and perform general housekeeping duties regularly.
Receive, sort, and distribute resident mail.
Answer the 24/7 hotline and text line, conduct assessments for shelter, respond to MAPP calls, assess survivor’s immediate needs and make all appropriate referrals.
Assist the department directors in the orientation and training of new staff/volunteers.
Work closely with Case Managers to coordinate entry/exit of Safe House residents.
Provide in-person medical advocacy, response, support and referrals to victims and survivors at local healthcare facilities as needed.
Cross-train with Rapid Response advocates to provide support, and advocacy to victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault at the Berks County Courthouse, including specific information about the process of filing an emergency petition and/or temporary petition for Protection from Abuse Order (PFA), Sexual Violence Protection Order (SVPO), and Protection from Intimidation Order.
Utilize language access services to effectively communicate with LEP individuals.
Maintain records in accordance with agency standards and complete/submit required documents as assigned.
Arrange transportation for clients when appropriate.
Provide coverage for open shifts and holidays as needed.
Attend staff, team, program, and agency meetings as required.
All other duties as determined by department supervisors.