Resource & Information Advocate

About Us

At Metropolitan Family Services (MFS), community is at the heart of all we do—both internally and through the services we provide. Since 1857, MFS has empowered families to learn, earn, heal, and thrive as mentors, motivators, and advocates. We drive change that helps families reach their greatest potential and positively impact their communities.

About the Role

We are seeking a Resource and Information Advocate to join our team at the Midway office. This role focuses on supporting survivors of domestic violence by providing crisis intervention, court advocacy, and resource referrals.

Responsibilities

• Greet survivors seeking assistance at the Centralized Domestic Violence Courthouse of Cook County and assess their immediate needs.
• Provide crisis intervention, emotional support, and brief assistance in preparing Orders of Protection, Stalking No-Contact Orders, and Civil No Contact Orders.
• Offer guidance, information, and referrals, including court options, interventions, and resources both within and outside the courthouse.
• Develop and maintain knowledge of MFS programs and community-based resources; facilitate linkages to services.
• Attend mandatory group supervision, program, and agency meetings.
• Collaborate with departmental staff and other programs to provide comprehensive client services.
• Complete paperwork and data entry in a timely manner, including client information sheets and documentation.
• Work within contract, grant, and program expectations, including meeting timelines and reporting requirements.
• Stay updated on developments in the domestic violence field through workshops and conferences.
• Represent MFS and the domestic violence program professionally in the community.
• Provide services in accordance with the Illinois Certified Domestic Violence Professionals’ code of ethics.
• Engage in brief interactions with 8-10 individuals daily, including court navigation, order explanations, and referrals with accurate documentation.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School diploma or GED equivalent plus 4+ years of work experience, or an Associate’s degree plus 2+ years of work experience (preferably in gender-based violence, legal systems, or social services).
• Knowledge of community resources, advocacy, crisis intervention, trauma, and legal systems is beneficial.
• Interest in domestic violence prevention/intervention and professional growth in the field.
• Empathic, non-judgmental, and service-oriented attitude.
• Ability to multi-task, respond to varied situations, and work with minimal supervision.
• Strong organizational, record-keeping, and communication skills (verbal and written).
• Ability to problem-solve independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Effectiveness in working with diverse cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Flexibility in work schedule, including occasional evenings and/or weekends.
• Basic computer knowledge and ability to operate general office equipment.

Physical Demands

• Sustained periods of sitting and standing; frequent talking, hearing, and use of hands/fingers.
• Occasional standing, bending, stretching, stooping, kneeling, or crouching.
• Close visual acuity for data analysis, transcription, and computer work.
• Occasional lifting/moving of up to 30 pounds.

Pay

The average starting salary for this position ranges from $40,116 to $44,338 annually, based on skill and experience level.

Benefits

• Medical, dental (Guardian), and vision (VSP) coverage.
• Employer contributions of $2,000 (individual) or $4,000 (family) to HSA accounts, pro-rated to start date.
• Free General Medicine and Behavioral Health Teladoc services for all team members.
• Ascensus 401K plan with a 4% employer match, vested at 100% on day one of eligibility.
• Additional benefits available (some apply to part-time/temporary workers; inquire upon hire).