Victim Advocate Specialist

Empowerment Through Advocacy. Healing Through Support. The YMCA is now hiring Victim Advocate Specialists!

The Victim Advocate Specialist is responsible for providing critical support to victims of violence, particularly youth, in the East and West Garfield Park community. This position offers direct services to individuals who have experienced trauma as a result of violence, ensuring that they have access to the resources, advocacy, and emotional support needed for recovery and empowerment. The Victim Advocate Specialist will play a key role in creating a safe environment for victims, assisting in navigating legal, medical, and social services, and working closely with community partners.

Provide a 24/7 on call service for response for emergency call responses.

Salary starts at $24.03 per hour with full-time benefits and opportunities to grow within the organization

• Competitive salaries reflecting your skills and experience.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for eligible employees, plus wellness programs, mental health resources, and a family gym membership.
• Generous PTO and paid holidays, with flexible work hours for work-life balance.
• 403(b) plan with company contributions for eligible employees after 2 years of service.
• Continuous learning opportunities through workshops and training programs.
• Supportive work environment valuing diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Discounts on programs
  , employee assistance programs, and company-sponsored events.

• Provide one-on-one support to victims of violence, including crisis intervention, safety planning, and emotional support.
• Offer trauma-informed counseling and guidance to victims, empowering them to navigate their recovery process.
• Assist victims in accessing services such as medical care, mental health support, legal assistance, and housing resources.
• Serve as a liaison between victims and law enforcement, ensuring that the victim’s needs are understood and addressed during the investigative and judicial process.
• Engage with the community to raise awareness about victim services and resources.
• Lead or participate in community events, workshops, and support groups to educate the public about victimization, trauma, and available support services.
• Provide education on victims' rights, confidentiality, and the importance of seeking support in the aftermath of violence.

• Develop and maintain relationships with community partners, community organizations including local law enforcement, hospitals, legal professionals, and mental health providers.
• Coordinate with other service providers to ensure comprehensive support and follow-up for victims of violence.

• Maintain accurate, confidential, and up-to-date case files for each victim, documenting interactions, progress, and services provided.
• Develop and implement individualized service plans for victims based on their unique needs and circumstances.
• Track and report case progress, challenges, and outcomes as required by funders, the organization, or partner agencies.
• Support a caseload of 15-20 Clients.

• Be available to respond to crises or emergencies involving victims of violence, offering immediate emotional support and safety assistance.
• Assist victims in identifying and addressing immediate safety concerns, including arranging emergency shelter, if necessary.
• Provide a 24/7 on call service for response for emergency call responses known as CPIC Alerts.

• Advocate for victims within the legal system, ensuring that their rights are upheld throughout the legal process.
• Provide victims with information on available restitution programs, protective orders, and other legal remedies available to them.
• Empower victims to make informed decisions regarding their safety, legal options, and support networks.

• Track and…