Advocate , Full-Time

Position Summary

Under the direction and supervision of the Programs Manager, the Advocate is responsible for assisting both shelter-based and community-based survivors with developing safety, stability, and self-sufficiency strategies in the aftermath of domestic and/or sexual violence. The Advocate provides advocacy, support, information, referrals, and accompaniment while helping survivors navigate a variety of systems, including criminal and civil legal systems, social services, healthcare, housing, financial assistance, mental health services, and other community resources.

Primary Responsibilities:

Direct Advocacy & Case Management

• Maintain an active caseload of survivors receiving both LIFE/Court advocacy and recovery-focused support
• Hold regular client meetings to support goal setting, safety planning, budgeting, and resource navigation
• Develop individualized safety plans, follow-up plans, and advocacy checklists

Legal & Systems Advocacy (Court Focus)

• Advocate for survivors within all levels of the civil and criminal legal systems
• Provide accompaniment, transportation, and support for court hearings, legal appointments, and related meetings
• Assist survivors in navigating protective orders, custody matters, criminal proceedings, and other legal processes
• Coordinate referrals and support access to legal resources and victim advocacy services

Substance Use Recovery Support (S.A.R.A. Role)

• Complete SMART Recovery facilitator training
• Provide individualized recovery-focused advocacy sessions upon request
• Support survivors in developing relapse prevention/safety plans and ensuring accessibility to staff when needed
• Assist survivors in identifying coping skills, healing strategies, and recovery goals related to trauma and substance use

General Program Responsibilities:

• Provide intake and exit services as required
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation including progress notes, releases, case files, and statistical reporting
• Ensure confidentiality of all client information in accordance with agency policy and Missouri Revised Statute 455.220
• Provide shelter and hotline coverage as needed
• Serve in on-call rotation as required
• Facilitate support groups as assigned
• Maintain client calendars and ensure follow-up on services and referrals
• Work a varied schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays as needed Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree required; bachelor’s degree preferred
• Relevant experience in advocacy, community outreach, social services or program management may substitute for formal education
• Experience working with survivors of domestic and/or sexual violence, preferably within an emergency domestic violence shelter setting is preferred.
• Ability to work effectively with individuals of diverse backgrounds, including but not limited to varying ethnic, racial, religious, socioeconomic, sexual orientation, and gender identity groups.
• Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
• Valid Missouri Driver’s License and current automobile insurance. Must obtain a Missouri Class E Driver’s License within thirty (30) days of employment if not already held.
• Ability to pass criminal background and child abuse and neglect screenings.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to navigate shelters, offices, and community environments
• Ability to respond to emergencies and crisis situations as needed
• Ability to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds

Work Environment

This position operates in offices, shelter, and community-based settings and may require occasional evening, overnight, or weekend responsibilities related to on-call coverage, emergencies, meetings, or trainings.

Mission Alignment

Turning Point Advocacy Services is committed to empowering survivors and promoting safe, healthy communities through advocacy, shelter, prevention, and support services. The Programs Manager plays a vital role in ensuring compassionate, effective, and survivor-centered programming across the organization.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Turning Point Advocacy Services is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace for staff and clients alike.