Social Services Re-entry Advocate

Defender Association of Philadelphia • Philadelphia, PA

1d • $59,000 - $61,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

As a Social Services Re-Entry Advocate at the Defender Association, you will be on the front lines to help reduce recidivism. This unique role bridges the gap between incarceration and re-entering the community, providing essential support to help reduce recidivism and help our client reclaim their lives. This role will be uniquely positioned to impact and improve client outcomes through direct services work and light case management. The Re-Entry Advocate role will be hybrid – serving both clients recently released from custody through the Philadelphia Department of Prisons re-entry trailer and clients in the community through the Defender Office at the Criminal Justice Center. This role will work alongside dedicated attorneys to provide high-impact direct services, navigating the complexities of the criminal justice system to ensure every client has a fighting chance at a fresh start

Requirements

• MSW, LSW, Certified Peer Specialist or any equivalent combination of acceptable education and experience
• Minimum two years’ experience working with clients in criminal justice proceedings and/or experience with high-risk/high-needs populations, preferred
• Possesses a comprehensive understanding of the social services delivery systems, including mental health, substance abuse, community-based resources, and re-entry supports (strongly preferred)
• Proficiency and/or familiarity with motivational interviewing, trauma informed approaches, cognitive behavioral approaches, and a strengths-based focus therapy is highly desired
• Ability to engage effectively with both participants and colleagues through verbal and written communication
• Skilled in documenting computer-based participant records in an accurate and timely manner
• Good interpersonal, problem-solving, and analytical skills
• Organized with attention to detail.
• Ability to interact effectively and collaboratively with attorneys, clients, office and court personnel, oftentimes under considerable pressure
• Proficient in Google Drive, Microsoft Office Suite or similar software and computer literacy including the ability to learn multiple internal and external computer systems
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, multitask, and use sound judgment.
• Ability to travel to City courtrooms, prisons and community placements, as needed
• Staff the trailer outside of Curran-Fromhold Correctional Facility as needed

Responsibilities

• Staff the Philadelphia Department of Prisons Re-entry Trailer to connect with defendants being released from custody
• Conduct needs-based assessments for released individuals
• Provide basic information related to global legal picture, including next court date, where to report, and basic “next steps” or expectations
• Identify clients who will benefit from comprehensive re-entry planning and connection to service providers
• Make referrals for post-release services and conduct follow-up with clients upon release
• Work collaboratively to address hurdles and make changes to improve client outcomes
• Contact and interview clients, when applicable, both pre-release and post-release
• Answer calls and questions from clients on supervision, family members, and service providers
• Communicate with clients through different platforms: letters, phone calls, video conferencing, in person, etc.
• Update client files and input information pertaining to hearings into client management system
• Staff the Defender Association office at the Criminal Justice Center to assist with clients on bail to connect with resources and provide necessary follow-up
• Assist with other department duties as needed

Benefits

• Generous and rich benefits plan including choice of affordable medical plans, and employer paid: dental, vision, life insurance, long term disability insurance and professional liability insurance
• Substantial paid time off- close to 35 days off plus all federal holidays
• Retirement Savings Employer Match
• Paid parental leave
• Free Septa Anywhere Key Card
• Public Loan Forgiveness Eligible Employer
• Meaningful Work
• Wellness Benefits
• Ongoing Training and Development of You

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level