Victim Advocate

Y W C A of the Mohawk Valley • City of Utica, NY

7d

About The Position

The YWCA Mohawk Valley is dedicated to its mission of eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.

Job Summary:

Provide crisis intervention and supportive counseling to victims/survivors of domestic and sexual violence.

Requirements

• Associates’ degree in human services; criminal justice; social work or related field preferred or 2 years’ experience in the field of domestic and sexual violence.
• Acceptance and support of the YWCA Mission
• Ability to interact with staff, residents and/or agencies while maintaining confidentiality
• Well organized and Flexible
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently with little or no supervision
• Ability to work with and interact with diverse populations
• Must have reliable transportation and the ability to travel
• Knowledge of Microsoft computer software.
• Supports the organizations mission, vision and values by exhibiting the following: Integrity Respect Commitment Compassion Credibility Expertise Teamwork

Responsibilities

• Support victims/survivors in decision-making by providing correct information and available options regarding information and referrals; court, law enforcement, medical and social services advocacy/accompaniment.
• Advocating that the rights of the victims/survivors of domestic and sexual violence are being met.
• Gather information and data pertaining to victims/survivors of domestic and sexual violence.
• Advocate/accompany victims/survivors as they navigate court, law enforcement, medical and social services systems.
• Inform victims/survivors of all Crisis Services programming including shelter, groups, counseling and 24-hour hotline.
• Follow up with victims/survivors through court hearings; police intervention and hospital accompaniment and status of case.
• Assist victims/survivors file crime victims compensation application/follow up.
• Maintain current information on laws; policy and procedures regarding domestic and sexual violence.
• Maintain positive working relationships with community agencies, courts, law enforcement, and medical professionals.
• Make child abuse mandated reports to registry as appropriate.
• All other duties as assigned.
• Available “on call” weeknights and weekends as scheduled.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree