Children’s Advocate

Job Title

Children’s Advocate

Senior Children’s Advocate

Non-Exempt

$21.28 per hour

Participates in the activities of a multidisciplinary team engaged in the delivery of residential and non-residential domestic violence program services. Utilizes an empowerment‑based, trauma‑informed, survivor‑centered approach in providing services to child survivors of domestic violence. Participates in the formulation and implementation of individual client goal plans and individualized services to child victims of domestic violence. Supports the agency 24‑hour domestic violence hotline and shelter services as necessary and/or requested.

Works under the supervision of the Senior Children’s Advocate.

• Develops, implements, coordinates and evaluates programs and services that address the unique needs of children.
• Provides individual counseling, group counseling, referrals and advocacy for children.
• Assesses the needs of children, completing intake forms and developing service plans with parent and/or child.
• Communicates with staff on specific needs of children.
• Supports adult survivors in strengthening parent‑child bond and supporting their children’s needs.
• Plans and facilitates recreational and educational activities for children and families.
• Aids in data collection as needed.
• Adheres to funding requirements.
• Attends all staff meetings and participates in all other programs, agency and community meetings and trainings as requested or assigned.
• Maintains a working relationship with staff, clients and community agencies.
• Provides public information and education on topics such as teen dating violence, effects of domestic violence on children, and remedies programs to the community as assigned.
• Frequent written and verbal communications with clients/survivors, referral sources and other employees as appropriate.
• Performs all job functions consistent with confidentiality regulations, ethical practices and agency policies and mission.
• Presents and maintains a professional image in dress, behavior, and work habits.
• Promotes a positive and pleasant attitude conducive to the workplace that enhances and furthers the mission, vision and values statement.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Ability to prepare and maintain effective case files.
• Ability to participate in and successfully complete a comprehensive training program.
• Ability to provide sincere interest necessary to work with client population.
• Ability to engage potential clientele and/or maintain current clients in services by providing support and encouragement.
• Must acquire and apply the skills necessary for empathetic and empowering counseling/advocacy/crisis intervention techniques and methods.
• Possess (sic) high physical and emotional energy needed to handle the array of circumstances that may arise.
• Basic computer skills.
• Demonstrate strong oral and written communication skills.
• Skills in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with survivors, staff, other service providers, and the public.

Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services, Counseling, Social Work or related field required.

• One year full‑time experience providing professional counseling, advocacy, and/or case management preferred.

Completion of the 40‑hour domestic violence training as required by the Illinois Domestic Violence Act (IDVA) from an Illinois Certified Domestic Violence Professional (CDVP) approved training site. This training will be provided by Remedies Renewing Lives to new employees who have not yet completed the training.

All full‑time employees are eligible for insurance on the first of the month after 30 days of employment. Benefits include medical, dental and 401(k) participation. We also offer an accrual of 4 weeks of paid time off per year. There is an annual discretionary bonus given as well after completing 1 year of service. Full‑time employees are also eligible for short/long term disability and term life insurance.