CVI Victim Advocate

$40,000 - $45,000/Yr

Joliet Township Government - Joliet, IL

Full-time - Entry Level

Joliet, IL

About the position

The Victim Service Advocate for the Community Violence Intervention program plays a crucial role in supporting eligible participants and their families by providing immediate, compassionate, and in-person advocacy following incidents of community violence. This position involves responding swiftly to incidents, offering essential support such as accompanying victims to hospital visits, assisting with funeral planning, providing crisis counseling, and facilitating communication with law enforcement and other agencies regarding their cases.

Responsibilities

• Engage with victims and families promptly to assess needs and provide appropriate resources and referrals.
• Offer crisis counseling and emotional support to victims and their families during challenging times.
• Foster trust and rapport with victims and families, empowering them with the skills and knowledge necessary to advocate for themselves.
• Work closely with law enforcement, healthcare providers, and community organizations to ensure comprehensive support.
• Assist families in accessing necessary services, including medical, legal, and financial assistance.
• Respond promptly to incidents of community violence within designated community areas.
• Maintain consistent attendance and punctuality as a key member of the rapid response team.
• Follow up within one hour of incident notification, engaging with participants through in-person interactions or phone calls, available 24/7.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date records for a caseload of up to 25 participants.
• Facilitate supportive interactions between victims or family members and relevant entities.
• Conduct regular weekly support groups for victims and families.
• Provide in-person, video, and telephonic outreach and care coordination to participants and families.
• Actively plan, schedule, and track project timelines and milestones.
• Develop, maintain, and deliver detailed case logs and program reports.
• Work closely with outreach workers, case managers, and other departments.
• Participate in staff training meetings, conferences, and other professional development events.
• Assist in annual site evaluations and contribute to community impact programs.
• Utilize the IRIS system to provide referrals for wraparound service provisions.
• Uphold high ethical standards and demonstrate integrity in all interactions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Social Work, or a related field (preferred).
• Relevant work experience utilizing effective, trauma-informed interventions.
• Exceptional expressive and receptive communication skills.
• Proven adeptness in managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Strong computer literacy, including proficiency in word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation software.
• Valid driver's license, proof of insurance, and reliable transportation.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in crisis intervention and support services.
• Familiarity with community resources and services available to victims of violence.
• Cultural competence in working with diverse populations.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• 401(k)
• Vision insurance
• Life insurance