Child and Family Advocate

About the role

As a recognized leader in our field, The Guidance Center provides a broad range of services that have helped children, adults and families unlock potential and build better lives since 1958. With 25 programs we offer treatment, prevention, growth and education services to more than 14,200 people annually. Together we: Nurture development. Foster resilience. Cultivate well-being. We have an exciting opportunity for a Child and Family Advocate to join our team of talented professionals. As a Child and Family Advocate in the Kids‑TALK Program, you will provide direct services to children and families seen at the Kids‑TALK Children’s Advocacy Center, contributing to the mission of the Children's Advocacy Center by providing advocacy, crisis support and referral services to child victims of abuse and neglect and their non‑offending families and caretakers.

Responsibilities

• Provide direct services to children and families seen at the Kids‑TALK Children’s Advocacy Center.
• Contribute to the mission of the Children's Advocacy Center by providing advocacy, crisis support and referral services to child victims of abuse and neglect and their non‑offending families and caretakers.
• Ensure all aspects of the Kids‑TALK program meet the program’s mission while staying in compliance with required reporting agencies.
• Monitor that referrals are handled in a timely manner and that all required data is submitted accurately and timely.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in human services related field required.
• One (1) year of experience working with abused/neglected children and their families is highly preferred, with priority given to candidates with additional experience.
• A working knowledge of the dynamics of child maltreatment, trauma, and child development is required.
• Knowledge of the criminal justice system, Children’s Protective Services/Foster Care Services and/or the courts is required.
• The ability to engage children 17 and under and their families from diverse ethnic, racial, and socio‑economic backgrounds is essential.
• The preferred candidate will also have training and experience in working with multidisciplinary teams consisting of law enforcement, human service professionals and the court system.
• Candidates should be able to demonstrate excellent interpersonal communication skills, a strong commitment to customer service, the ability to work in a cooperative manner with diverse professional groups, and the ability to develop and maintain a strong resource network.
• Must have MDHHS Central Registry and background check clearance.
• Valid driver’s license and favorable driving record is required.
• Additional requirements include: a nonjudgmental approach that reflects cultural competency and sensitivity to the unique needs and diverse experiences of children and their families; the ability to develop collaborative relationships with other providers; the ability to assess and intervene within complex family and community systems; and a willingness to be flexible, patient, and creative.
• Must have the ability to appropriately handle crisis situations, be computer proficient, and travel frequently between Kids‑TALK Children's Advocacy Center sites.

Benefits

• Affordable medical plans
• Employer‑paid dental, vision, and long‑term disability
• 401(K) with employer contribution
• Flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent
• Paid time off
• 11 paid holidays

Pay

Market‑based compensation structure; salary grade 105; hourly rates start at $23.82 (actual pay varies based on transferable work experience and qualifications).