Victim Advocate - Barberton Municipal Court

Victim Advocate – Barberton Municipal Court

Victim Assistance Program (VAP) is one of the first victim services agencies in the United States. Founded in 1972, we continue to evolve, advance, and seek innovative ways to assist victims of crime and trauma. If you are passionate about using your skills to help create a world where all victims are supported and healed, we invite you to consider joining our team.

A Part‑Time Victim Advocate provides trauma‑informed services to victims, family members, and communities impacted by crisis, violence, or tragedy. Services are offered via phone, text, chat, or in person to address the aftermath of victimization.

FLSA Status
:
Hourly / Non‑exempt
Job Type
:
Part‑Time
Compensation
: $19.25 per hour
Day Schedule
:
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday
Shift Schedule
: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
On‑Call Requirements
:
No

• Provide clients with support (in person/chat/phone) using VAP’s model of crisis intervention.
• Develop a professional relationship with clients through consistent interaction and follow‑up care based on their level of need, maintaining a caseload.
• Empower victims to make informed decisions by providing options that meet their individual needs.
• Help clients create and pursue self‑initiated goals during the development of a case plan.
• Educate clients on their rights and the application or waiver of those rights as a victim of crime.
• Provide support and education through the judicial process within and outside Barberton Municipal Court and offer to attend hearings or meetings to provide advocacy and support.
• Assist victims in presenting Victim Impact Statements to the court when requested.
• Maintain current knowledge of local resources that benefit clients and refer them to outside entities.
• Assist with protection order paperwork, victim compensation paperwork, or VINE enrollment.
• Liaise with court personnel, first responders, emergency or hospital personnel when warranted.
• Offer clients the ability to evaluate services.
• Participate as a member of the Summit County Crisis Response Team when responding on scene.
• Assist in training and onboarding staff, volunteers, and interns upon request.
• Engage in professional development through required training.
• Attend all required staff meetings.
• Maintain all licenses and certifications held, and advance in NACP when applicable.
• Represent the mission of the agency at all times and in collaborative projects or meetings.

• Bachelor’s degree in a field related to VAP’s mission and services preferred.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle throughout employment.
• Successful criminal background check.
• Competence in administering services to families, adults, youth, and/or children.
• Ability to work effectively and proactively with other providers and local, state, and federal entities.
• Exhibit professional boundaries with professionals and clients.
• Provide culturally competent services and interactions with peers, volunteers, and interns.
• Engage in problem‑solving and critical‑thinking practices.
• Ability to work harmoniously with co‑workers.
• Communicate clearly, effectively, and timely.
• Proficient in online internet searches and email communication.

At VAP, we want prospective employees to be fully aware of this work’s potential physical and psychological impacts. As a Victim Advocate you may be exposed to distressing sights, sounds, and situations such as crime scenes, photos of abuse, and recordings of violent incidents. Some situations may also involve potential physical risks from victims or aggressors.