What are the responsibilities and job description for the Family Advocate position at Children's Advocacy Network?
Position: Family Advocate
Job Summary:
The mission of Children's Advocacy Network (CAN) is to help heal and champion abused and neglected children in Central Louisiana. The Family Advocate provides crisis intervention, advocacy, support, and case management to children and families served by the CAN’s Children’s Advocacy Center program. As a member of the multidisciplinary team (MDT), the Family Advocate works closely with Child Protective Services, law enforcement, prosecutors, medical providers, forensic interviewers, and mental health professionals to ensure children and their non-offending caregivers receive coordinated, trauma-informed services throughout the investigative, prosecution, and healing process.
Primary Responsibilities:
- Provide crisis intervention, emotional support, accompaniment, and advocacy to child victims and their non-offending caregivers.
- Maintain ongoing communication with caregivers throughout the investigation and service process.
- Coordinate referrals for counseling and other community resources.
- Educate families about the multidisciplinary team process, victims' rights, and available services.
- Prepare children and caregivers for court proceedings using developmentally appropriate practices.
- Maintain accurate documentation and data entry in accordance with grant, accreditation, and agency requirements.
- Attend community outreach and education events.
- Attend relevant training to improve and uphold skills.
- Perform any other duties assigned by supervisors.
Job Qualifications & Skills
- Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, Criminal Justice, or a related field; or equivalent professional work experience.
- Experience working with child abuse victims, crime victims, or vulnerable populations.
- Knowledge of trauma-informed care.
- Bilingual applicants encouraged to apply (if applicable).
- Excellent organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to prioritize multiple cases.
- Strong written documentation skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
- Ability to interact positively with the public, volunteers, board members, court and state personnel.
- Ability to communicate clearly and efficiently.
- Ability to maintain professional boundaries, manage a demanding caseload, and respond effectively in emotionally challenging situations.
- Commitment to upholding confidentiality laws and standards.
- Competent in maintaining accurate client files, case documentation, and electronic records.
- Possess a valid driver's license and be able to pass an extensive background check.
Benefits:
- Health insurance reimbursement (up to $350/month)
- Basic life insurance coverage, with option to purchase additional coverage
- Supplemental dental, vision, critical illness coverage available
- SIMPLE IRA retirement plan with employer match (up to 3%)
- Paid vacation and sick leave
- Paid holidays
- Bereavement leave
- Professional development and training opportunities
Job Type: Full-time
Schedule: Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person
This position is based out of our Children's Advocacy Center program in Alexandria, LA. Some travel may be required for direct advocacy, meetings, or training.
If you are passionate about supporting children and families impacted by abuse and believe every child deserves safety, hope, and healing, we encourage you to apply. At Children's Advocacy Network, you'll join a dedicated team committed to collaboration, professional growth, and making a lasting difference in the lives of children throughout Central Louisiana..
Children's Advocacy Network is an equal opportunity employer and seeks a diverse applicant pool.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
Work Location: In person