Victim Advocate jobs in the United States

Job Summary
The Victim Advocate plays a crucial role in supporting individuals who have experienced trauma, particularly in cases involving domestic issues. This position involves providing emotional support, crisis intervention, and guidance through the legal and social services systems. The Victim Advocate collaborates with various agencies to ensure that victims receive the necessary resources and assistance to navigate their circumstances effectively.

Qualifications:

•Experience working with victims or witnesses of crime is helpful, but not required; training will be provided for entry level candidates.

•Ability to maintain trauma-informed interactions with victims and witnesses

•Ability to maintain client confidentiality

•Clear verbal and written communication skills

•Within 6 months of being hired to the position, the new hiree must successfully complete the Pennsylvania Victim Services Foundational Academy

•Complete 10 hours of provided training annually, after first year of employment

•Pennsylvania Child Abuse Clearance and Criminal Background Clearances

•Resume & cover letter required for all applicants (email to Office@nevs.org)

Responsibilities:

•STATUS: Full-Time (5 days per week – 40 hours a week)

•Contact identified crime victims and offer services

Staff Preliminary hearings within assigned Courtrooms at the Criminal Justice Center, when necessary

•Provide direct services to victims/survivors and their families, including but not restricted to the following: crisis response, supportive counseling, needs assessment, individual goal setting, advocacy, accompaniment to court procedures at Criminal Justice Center

•Develop and provides supportive service plans, which include safety plans

•Refer victims/survivors for group or individual counseling when requested and as appropriate

•Provide appropriate referrals to community resources as needed

•Collaborate with the Philadelphia DA’s Office to assist victims/survivors

•Input client information into the ETO Management System and other agency databases as needed

•Work with Police Districts primarily in the Northeast region of Philadelphia to serve victims of crime

•Conduct community presentations

•Maintain accurate and legible records; monthly, quarterly reports

•Adhere to the policies and procedures of NEVS, which support the goals and mission of the agency and meet funding requirements

•Assist with record keeping and reporting systems

•Act as liaison to other systems and agencies

•Disseminate information explaining NEVS’s services, Victims’ Compensation Assistance Program (VCAP), and other information as needed at local community events

•Prepare periodic reports to the Executive Director and Office Administrator

•Other duties as assigned by the Executive Director, within the scope of position expectations

*Paid training

*Generous PTO

Duties
- Provide emotional support and crisis intervention to victims of crime and trauma.
- Assist clients in understanding their rights and options within the legal system.
- Develop safety plans tailored to individual needs and circumstances.
- Collaborate with law enforcement, social services, and other community resources to facilitate comprehensive support for victims.
- Conduct assessments to identify the needs of victims and connect them with appropriate services.
- Maintain accurate records of interactions with clients while ensuring confidentiality.
- Educate clients about available resources, including counseling, legal aid, and healthcare services.
- Participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about victim advocacy services.

Skills
- Proficiency in social work principles and practices.
- Strong crisis management skills to effectively respond to urgent situations.
- Knowledge of policies and procedures.
- Familiarity with law as it pertains to victim advocacy.
- Experience in crisis intervention techniques.
- Background in or experience working with victims or witnesses is beneficial.
- Understanding of behavioral health issues affecting victims.
- Excellent conflict management skills to navigate sensitive situations.
- Knowledge of relevant protocols.

This role requires a compassionate individual who is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those affected by crime and trauma.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $41,332.00 - $42,434.00 per year

Expected hours: 40 per week

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Ability to Relocate:

• Philadelphia, PA 19152: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Willingness to travel:

• 25% (Required)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Philadelphia, PA 19152