Victim Advocate

About the role

Victim Advocates provide services to prevent domestic abuse and sexual assault through advocacy, education, training, and awareness programs educating Soldiers, Family members, and Army civilians under the Army Family Advocacy Program (FAP).

Responsibilities

• Communicate understanding, sensitivity, and empathy for victims and non-abusing parent/guardian when handling victim cases.
• Effectively communicate with victims, develop trusting helping relationships.
• Work effectively with individuals and families from diverse racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Intervene in crisis situations exercising careful judgement, applying flexibility and innovative problem solving, and taking appropriate precautions to protect the welfare of those to whom they provide services under the guiding principle of "do no harm."
• Work independently to assess risk, develop, implement, and evaluate safety and intervention plans to meet victim needs.
• Operate within guidelines of the U.S. Army's Family Advocacy Program, Domestic Abuse Victim Advocate Program.
• Conduct briefings to small and large groups of civilians, Soldiers, and Commanders.
• Work cooperatively with Army Community Services and Family Advocacy Program staff, military, and civilian medical, social service, law enforcement, and legal personnel on behalf of victims.
• Educate installation personnel on the most effective responses and resources for domestic abuse on behalf of victims and at-risk family members.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from an accredited school in social work, psychology, marriage, family and child counseling, counseling or behavioral science, education, community health or public health, or criminal justice.
• Minimum of two years' experience providing comprehensive assistance and support to victims of domestic abuse.
• Minimum of two years' experience in working with a military or civilian social service agency serving military families.
• Certification by the National Advocate Credentialing Program at the time of hire or within one year of hire.
• Thorough knowledge of family violence dynamics, trauma-informed advocacy services, environmental stressors, safety planning, risk assessments, local community resources, and federal and state laws pertaining to domestic abuse, family law, and the Victim Rights Bill.
• Knowledge of military personnel automation systems and PC; good analytical skills, time management, and ability to work independently.
• Prior military experience or experience with military programs.
• Familiarity with U.S. Army rank structure and military culture.
• Ability to effectively communicate and interact with others, both in person and by telephone.
• Travel will be required as needed.
• Experience with Microsoft Suite programs.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States and able to pass a background check.
• Able to read, write, and communicate fluently in English.
• Strong listening and organizational skills.
• Current and valid driver's license.