Family Advocate

Job Summary: The Family Advocate, under the direct supervision of the Durant Center's Program Director, shall be responsible for the provision of advocacy services for child and adolescent victims of abuse and their families in the designated counties or judicial circuit. This is a grant funded position. 

 General Responsibilities:

 1.         Complete intake and application of Crime Victim's Compensation.

2.         Ensure that all relevant reports are collected from law enforcement and/or Social Services to become part of the case file.

3.         Review each case file and conduct ongoing follow-up services.

4.         Provide crisis intervention, support, and education regarding the investigation, prosecution and treatment to children and non-offending caregivers throughout the criminal Justice process.

5.         Be knowledgeable of local resources for children and their families and maintain a comprehensive up-to-date resource guide of services.

6.         Provide each family with information on the rights of crime victims and ensure that local services are available as needed.

7.         Provide linkage to the law enforcement victim advocate and facilitate coordinated service provision.

8.         Provide each family with notification of Crime Victims' Compensation and assist with application process if needed.

9.         Assess ongoing needs of the child and non-offending caregivers and/or siblings and assist families in procuring additional support as needed.

10.        Provide information and referrals for additional services both within the Coalition and to its outside network.

11.        Provide court preparation as needed and accompany child and caregiver to all hearings, trials, and meetings as appropriate.

12.        Serve on all multidisciplinary teams and advocate for each child's well­being as appropriate.

13.        Monitor case progress through the criminal justice and social service system and keep victim and caregiver informed of case status.

14.        Document all services in a timely manner and complete necessary reports as scheduled.

15.        Provide community education to faith-based, social, and civic organizations on the issue of child abuse and the needs of abused children and their families.

16.        Assist in other activities as deemed necessary to the provision of comprehensive services to children, their families, and the community.

  Other Responsibilities:

1.       Adhere to PDC’s vision, mission, and philosophy

2.       Attend appropriate training workshops and conferences. Share relevant information with other team members and possibly other members of the staff.

3.       Must participate in community events that may occur during evenings, or weekends.

4.       Provide presentations on child abuse and other topics at community events.

5.       Participate in monthly staff meetings and other meetings upon request.

6.       Abide by and meet all applicable grant requirements and objectives.

7.       Maintain confidentiality and privacy of all employees.

8.       Maintain confidentiality of shelter location, personnel, and financial information.

9.       Experience working with children having experienced child abuse, and knowledge of child abuse and maltreatment.

       10.   Computer literate and knowledge of essential office equipment and operations

Requirements:

1.       Minimum of three years as a successful administrative assistant

2.       Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work or related field.

3.       Experience collaborating with the Department of DSS and Law Enforcement personnel 

.4.       Ability to work well with diverse populations and systems’ personnel.

5.       Excellent written and verbal communication skills, and experience in public speaking.

6.  Strong organization and time management skills 

7.      Willing to work after-hours and on some Saturdays when needed for community events 

8.     Excellent Customer service and case management experience. 

9.       Valid SC Driver’s License, SC SLED Criminal Records, Sex Offender Registry, and DSS Central Registry clearance.

10.  Comfortable working with the public and coordinating events when needed.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

1.       Fundamental knowledge of family violence, sexual assault, and child abuse.

2.       Excellent oral and written communication skills.

3.       Have a good driving record (verified by DMV reports at the time of hire), a reliable vehicle, and proof of liability insurance.

4.       Ability to analyze information and recognize problems or errors.

5.       Excellent people skills for utilization with staff, volunteers, and individuals outside the organization.

Competency Profile / Core Values Alignment:

1.       Highly motivated and able to work independently

2.       Resourceful, creative, and with strong problem-solving skills

3.       Self-confident, flexible, and adaptable

4.       Able to work collaboratively with a variety of people

5.       Effective relationship builder

6.       Demonstrated ability to establish and sustain positive professional relationships and actively contribute to creating a highly cooperative work environment.

7.       Demonstrated commitment to learning and continual improvement

8.       Demonstrated ability to manage multiple responsibilities and deadlines within a complex and changing environment.

9.       Demonstrated commitment to the issues addressed by the Coalition.

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