MSPD Holistic Advocates

Do you want to help make a difference in the lives of people involved in the criminal legal system? The Missouri State Public Defender’s Holistic Defense Services Program has teamed up with Ameri Corps Missouri to pioneer a groundbreaking holistic approach to public defense. This approach tackles the root causes of our clients’ involvement in the criminal legal system and helps to break the cycle of criminalization.

As a Holistic Advocate, you will play a vital role in growing MSPD’s Holistic Defense Services Program, helping to shape the future of Missouri’s criminal legal system. Your dedication and passion will drive the transformation of a system that values compassion, fairness, and the inherent worth of every individual.

Holistic Advocates will step into Missouri communities and engage with local service providers to connect clients to essential resources and services – which can help us get clients out of jail and back to their families and communities. Advocates will also collaborate closely with attorneys to help share their clients’ meaningful and powerful stories in their cases.

MSPD has 33 trial offices across the state of Missouri. The placement of the Holistic Advocate is flexible and will be decided upon after discussion between the candidate and the Holistic Defense Services Leader. We currently have Holistic Advocates serving in West Plains, Springfield, Fulton, St. Charles, Carthage, St. Joseph, Harrisonville, and Jackson. Other potential locations include Maryville, Nevada, Monett, Sedalia, Chillicothe, Hannibal, Ava, Portageville, Union, Farmington, Lebanon, Bolivar, and Jefferson City.

Maximum allowed Ameri Corps living allowance provided.

Are you ready to make an impact? Apply to join our dynamic team of Holistic Advocates today! These positions will remain open until filled.

• Connecting clients to a wide range of vital resources, from housing and mental health care to substance use treatment and transportation.
• Helping clients obtain essential documents and services, like IDs and health insurance, to help eliminate barriers and create more stability.
• Uncovering the untold stories of clients through in-depth interviews, delving into their backgrounds to provide a holistic perspective that truly represents their journey.
• Rallying support from their loved ones and community by engaging with family, friends, and support systems, while collecting impactful letters of support that amplify our clients’ voices.
• Building relationships with community partners to break down barriers and ensure that clients have access to the support that they need.

• Childcare assistance if eligible
• Health Coverage
• Training
• Education award upon successful completion of service
• Living Allowance

• Car recommended
• Permits working at another job during off hours
• Permits attendance at school during off hours

• Health
• Hunger
• Housing
• Community and Economic Development
• Public Safety
• Community Outreach
• Veterans
• Ex-Offender Reentry
• Homelessness

• Counseling
• Team Work
• Law
• Social Services
• Writing/Editing