Deaf Advocate - SERV

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Location: Camden County, NJ

Job Type/Status: Full-Time

Salary: $28 to $30 per hour

The Deaf Advocate plays a critical role in providing support and assistance to Deaf survivors of interpersonal violence. This position is responsible for providing advocacy, support, and resources to Deaf individuals who have experienced interpersonal violence. Offering culturally competent and accessible assistance, helping survivors navigate the legal and healthcare systems, and promoting awareness and education within the Deaf community. This position is also responsible for training, outreach, and awareness presentations to local service providers.

• Advocacy and Support
  • Offer emotional support and crisis intervention to d/Deaf survivors of interpersonal violence.
  • Support survivors in understanding their rights, exploring options, and navigating legal and healthcare systems.
  • Accompany survivors to medical exams, police interviews, court proceedings, and meetings with service providers as needed.
  • Help survivors access available resources, including counseling, support groups, and legal assistance.
• Safety Planning
  • Collaborate with survivors to develop safety plans tailored to their specific situations, addressing immediate safety concerns and prevention strategies for future incidents.
• Community Outreach and Education
  • Conduct outreach efforts within the Deaf community to raise awareness about interpersonal violence, consent, and available support services.
  • Develop and deliver workshops, presentations, and training sessions on these topics, using accessible formats and communication methods.
  • Conduct training and outreach to local service providers to raise awareness about Deaf culture, communication access and services available.
• Documentation and Reporting
  • Maintain accurate records of interactions with survivors and services provided.
  • Compile data and reports as required for grant funding or program evaluation.
• Cultural Competency
  • Stay informed about Deaf culture, language, and community dynamics to ensure culturally competent service delivery.
  • Attend relevant training and professional development opportunities.

The Deaf Advocate must successfully complete 60 hours of the New Jersey State Confidential Sexual Violence Advocacy Training and Domestic Violence Response Team training provided by Services Empowering Rights of Victims (SERV).

This role requires a deep understanding of Deaf culture, communication methods, and the specific challenges faced by d/Deaf individuals who have experienced interpersonal violence.

The ideal candidate is an empathic professional who demonstrates a strong commitment to social justice, cultural humility, and equity. They are a motivated self-starter who can work independently, take initiative, and consistently make progress toward goals.

People of color, Deaf people, people with disabilities, women, and LGBTQ candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. Survivors of sexual violence, domestic violence, and human trafficking are strongly encouraged to apply.

A bachelor's degree in a related field such as social work, psychology, counseling, or a relevant human services discipline is preferred. Experience may substitute for education on a year to year basis.

Fluency in American Sign Language (ASL) is essential.

Deep understanding of Deaf culture, history, and identity.

Knowledge of interpersonal violence issues and trauma-informed care.

Strong communication and advocacy skills.

Ability to maintain confidentiality and work with sensitivity.

Experience in providing support services or advocacy, preferably in the field of interpersonal violence.

Proficient in using communication devices and technology to facilitate communication.

At the Center for Family Services, our employees are our greatest resource, and we are committed to investing in our staff. We offer a competitive benefits package as well as ongoing resources…