Economic Empowerment Advocate

Economic Empowerment Advocate (Part-Time)

YWCA Greater Lafayette – Lafayette, IN

Looking for work that actually matters?

At YWCA Greater Lafayette, we don’t just talk about empowerment, we help people rebuild their lives. This role sits at the intersection of advocacy, employment, and real-world stability. You’ll work directly with survivors to help them move forward through economic independence, job readiness, and access to opportunity.

If you’re someone who can meet people where they are, build trust, and help them take the next step, keep reading.

What You’ll Do

This is a hands-on, people-focused role. You’ll work one-on-one and in small groups to help survivors build stability and move toward employment and long-term independence.

• Support survivors with employment readiness, job search, and career planning
• Facilitate or co-facilitate groups and workshops focused on financial stability, workplace readiness, and healthy independence
• Collaborate with internal teams (advocates, case managers, housing, legal) to align services and goals
• Build and maintain relationships with local employers, training programs, and community partners
• Help connect survivors to job opportunities, training, and resources that support long-term stability
• Maintain timely and accurate documentation for services, case notes, and grant reporting
• Participate in team meetings, training, and ongoing development in trauma-informed care and victim services
• Support program needs, including workwear or resource coordination and other related duties

This role is about progress, not perfection. Some days are structured, some are not. You need to be comfortable adjusting and staying focused on the outcome.

What We’re Looking For

We’re not looking for perfect resumes. We’re looking for the right mindset and skillset.

• Associate’s degree in social work, human services, criminal justice, education, or related field required
  • Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience preferred
• Experience working with survivors, victims of violence, or vulnerable populations strongly preferred
• Understanding of trauma-informed care and victim advocacy principles
• Interest or experience in workforce development, employment readiness, or career coaching
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and keep things moving
• Ability to communicate clearly and build trust with individuals from diverse backgrounds
• Comfortable working both independently and as part of a team
• Basic computer skills and willingness to learn systems and databases
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) is a plus, but not required 

What to Expect

• Part-time position (up to 29 hours/week)
• Typical schedule is Monday–Friday, with occasional evenings or weekends for groups or events 
• Mix of office work and active, hands-on support (including light lifting up to 25–30 lbs when needed) 
• Exposure to difficult situations and stories. We support our staff, but this work requires resilience and healthy boundaries

Why This Role Matters

Economic stability is one of the biggest factors in whether someone can safely move forward after experiencing violence. This role directly impacts that path.

You’re not just helping someone find a job.
You’re helping them build a future.

Additional Information

• Background and fingerprint checks required
• YWCA Greater Lafayette is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace