What are the responsibilities and job description for the Outreach Advocate position at Project Celebration Inc?
JOB DESCRIPTION
Job Title: Outreach Advocate
Accountability: Webster Outreach Supervisor
Main Function: As an Outreach Advocate, you play a critical role in providing support, advocacy, and guidance to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other forms of gender-based violence as they navigate the system. This frontline position involves working closely with survivors, attorneys, law enforcement, and court personnel to ensure survivors' rights are upheld, their voices are heard, and their safety and well-being are prioritized. Advocates serve as knowledgeable allies and trusted advocates, helping survivors understand their legal options, access resources, and navigate the complexities of the legal process.
Responsibilities
· Support and Information:
o Provide survivors with accurate and accessible information about their rights, options, and resources related to restraining orders, protective orders, custody, divorce, and other legal matters.
o Explain referral processes, procedures, and terminology in clear and understandable language, empowering survivors to make informed decisions about their legal situations.
· Court Accompaniment and Advocacy:
o Accompany survivors to court hearings, legal appointments, and meetings with attorneys, providing emotional support, advocacy, and assistance navigating the court system.
o Advocate for survivors' needs and safety within the legal system, ensuring their voices are heard and their rights are respected by judges, attorneys, and court personnel.
· Safety Planning and Risk Assessment:
o Collaborate with survivors to develop personalized safety plans that address their immediate safety concerns and long-term safety needs.
o Conduct risk assessments to identify potential safety risks, vulnerabilities, and protective factors, and assist survivors in implementing safety strategies within the legal context.
· Documentation and Evidence Collection:
o Assist survivors in documenting incidents of abuse, gathering evidence, and preparing documentation such as police reports, medical records, photographs, and witness statements to support legal proceedings.
o Ensure that survivors' rights to privacy, confidentiality, and autonomy are respected throughout the documentation process.
· Referrals and Coordination:
o Connect survivors with legal resources and support services, including legal aid organizations, pro bono attorneys, victim/witness assistance programs, and other community-based services.
o Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including attorneys, law enforcement, victim advocates, mental health professionals, and social service agencies, to coordinate services and support for survivors.
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in a related field preferred.
- Previous experience in legal advocacy, victim advocacy, or social services, especially in the context of domestic violence or sexual assault.
- Strong knowledge of community outreach processes, court procedures, and victims' rights laws.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and advocacy skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams and effectively navigate the legal system.
- Flexibility, resilience, and a commitment to promoting justice, safety, and empowerment for survivors.
Pay: $41,000.00 - $52,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $41,000 - $52,000