Paid Advocate

Position Summary

The Paid Advocate is a trained, on-call professional responsible for providing immediate, trauma-informed crisis response and victim advocacy services to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and related crimes. This role is a critical extension of Your Safe Haven's direct service team, ensuring 24/7/365 coverage for survivors seeking support.

This position is part of a broader agency strategy to stabilize staffing capacity, reduce burnout, and ensure consistent survivor-centered care.

Core Responsibilities

• Crisis Response & Direct Advocacy
• Respond to hotline calls during assigned on-call shifts
• Provide immediate crisis intervention, safety planning, and emotional support
• Respond in-person (as required) to: Hospitals (e.g., SANE exams), Law enforcement requests, Emergency shelter or safe locations
• Support survivors in understanding their rights and available options
• Survivor Support & Navigation
• Provide information and referrals to community resources
• Aid in safety planning and next steps following crisis intervention
• Maintain a survivor-centered, empowerment-based approach at all times
• Uphold strict confidentiality in accordance with agency policy and law
• Documentation & Communication
• Complete timely, accurate documentation of all client interactions
• Enter required data into agency systems (as applicable)
• Communicate with staff regarding follow-up needs and case transitions
• Participate in case handoffs to full-time advocacy staff
• Professional Conduct & Boundaries
• Maintain clear professional boundaries with clients and partners
• Represent Your Safe Haven professionally in all interactions
• Adhere to agency policies, including Code of Conduct and confidentiality standards
• Training & Professional Development
• Successfully complete 80 hours of required advocate training prior to independent response
• Participate in required continuing education and annual professional development
• Attend periodic team meetings, debriefs, and skill-building sessions (as required)

On-Call Expectations

• Serve scheduled on-call shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
• Maintain reliable access to phone and transportation during shifts
• Meet required response times for hotline and in-person requests
• Be prepared to travel within the service area as needed

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate's or Bachelor's preferred
• Experience in victim services, social services, healthcare, or related field preferred
• Ability to complete required training and certification for victim advocacy
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to remain calm and responsive in crisis situations
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
• Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History (upon hire)
• FBI Clearance (upon hire)

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in domestic violence or sexual assault advocacy
• Experience working with law enforcement, hospitals, or court systems
• Bilingual or multilingual abilities