Domestic Violence Advocate

Advocates play a crucial role in supporting individuals and families affected by domestic violence. This position involves providing crisis intervention, emotional support, and resources to survivors while advocating for their rights and needs.

At HOPE, we live by our core values: Integrity, Advocacy, Commitment, Compassion, and Respect. Our mission is to empower individuals affected by domestic violence through resources, education, advocacy, and a safe space for healing. If you’re empathetic, reliable, and aligned with our mission, we’d love to meet you!

Email Resume & Cover Letter to: kheffernan@hopedv.org

Expected Hours: This is a permanent part-time position designated for 23 hours per week.

Pay: $19.23 per hour

Work location: Rochelle, IL 61068

Reports to: Shelter Coordinator

Direct Service Responsibilities

• Provide voluntary, non-discriminatory, ethical, and accessible services for all clients. Work with a variety of individuals and groups in a constructive manner while appreciating the unique contributions of individuals from varied cultures, race, creed, color, national origin, age, sex, disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity.
• Provide crisis line response.
• Oversee and maintain shelter safety.
• Document direct service to clients and maintain client records in a timely and accurate manner.
• Provide domestic abuse support and education to clients and others who contact the agency.
• Provide information and referrals.
• Provide explanation of shelter policies.
• Act as a liaison between HOPE of Ogle County and hospital/medical systems and collaborate with social workers and community agencies.
• Provide life skills activities and a variety of adult, child, and family activities for clients as needed.
• Enter and orient current shelter clients.
• Provide transportation in accordance with HOPE’s Personnel Policies to assist clients with access to resources.
• Offer emotional support and safety planning tailored to the unique needs of victims and their children.
• Foster a respectful, empathetic environment that encourages trust and open communication for victims seeking refuge.

Staff Responsibilities

• Maintain confidentiality of all clients and uphold duties as a mandated reporter of child abuse.
• Participate in continuing education, training, and follow developments in the field of domestic violence (a minimum of 2 hours per month).
• Participate in advocate meetings, staff meetings, case management, and in-service trainings.
• Assist with providing training to new staff and volunteers who are completing their 40-hour domestic violence training.
• Provide time sheet documentation, PAR, and daily logs for all funding sources related to the position.
• Maintain an understanding of HOPE of Ogle County Policies and Procedures.
• Maintain the condition of the shelter, including, but not limited to, cleaning after a client exits shelter, picking up toys in the yard, cleaning appliances, and sorting through donations.
• Flexibility to work on holidays, fill advocate shifts during vacations, absences, and emergency absences as requested.
• Notify the Shelter Coordinator of changes to the schedule in a timely manner, one month in advance for vacation time and within a timely manner when due to illness.
• Must be accessible by phone to respond to emergency call off coverage.
• Effectively communicate client case information to other staff.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Shelter Coordinator and/or the Executive Director.

Qualifications

• High School Education or related experience required.
• Entry level experience with crisis services, social work, or related fields preferred.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to set limits and priorities.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Outlook and an ability to learn how to use other Microsoft Office software, as well as Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace apps and features.
• Strong conflict management skills combined with the ability to handle sensitive situations calmly and effectively.
• Bilingual in English and Spanish is a plus.

Requirements

• Willingness to submit to a LEADS Criminal Background Check with specifications and a CANTS (DCFS) background check.
• Maintain confidentiality in accordance with the Illinois Domestic Violence Act (IDVA).
• Completion of (or willingness to complete) the 40-Hour Domestic Violence Training.
• Ability to drive a car and maintain auto insurance.
• Ability to use a computer, standard phone equipment, and electronic office equipment.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: $19.23 per hour

Expected hours: 23.0 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Mileage reimbursement
• Paid time off

Application Question(s):

• Are you available to work on Sundays as part of your regular weekly schedule?
• Please list 2-3 dates and time ranges that you could do an interview.
• Which shifts are you available to work? (Morning-Afternoon, Afternoon-Evening?)

Education:

• High school or equivalent (Required)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)
• Illinois 40-Hour DV Training Certificate? (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $19