Core Advocate Responsibilities (All Programs)
All Advocates, regardless of program assignment, are expected to demonstrate the following core competencies:
Program Support: Effectively support program operations, workflows, and service delivery requirements in alignment with assigned role and agency standards, including cross-training.
Trauma-Informed Practice: Utilize survivor-centered and culturally responsive approaches in all client interactions, prioritizing autonomy, dignity, and choice.
Crisis Intervention: Provide trauma-informed crisis counseling, emotional support, de-escalation, advocacy, safety planning, and referrals to individuals experiencing interpersonal violence.
System Navigation & Advocacy: Assist clients in navigating medical, legal, housing, and social service systems as appropriate to client needs and program scope.
Collaboration: Collaborate with internal teams and community partners to coordinate client care and support continuity of services.
Documentation & Accountability: Maintain clear, timely, and accurate documentation in accordance with agency policies, quality assurance standards, and grant requirements.
Professional Conduct: Maintain professional boundaries, ethical standards, and emotional regulation in high-stress and crisis environments.
Program-Specific Responsibilities
The following outlines examples of responsibilities by department. Duties vary based on program assignment.
Crisis Response Team
Provide crisis intervention, safety planning, advocacy, and referrals through the agency’s 24/7 crisis line.
Respond to in-person walk-in clients seeking immediate support.
Travel in 9-county service area to provide in-person advocacy and support to survivors in hospital and clinical settings.
Coordinate with healthcare providers, law enforcement, and community partners as appropriate.
Complete follow-up support and documentation related to crisis calls, walk-ins, and hospital responses.
Emergency Shelter Team
Provide advocacy, safety planning, case management, transportation assistance, groups, and supportive services to residents in the 24/7 emergency shelter.
Respond to in-person walk-in clients seeking immediate support.
Support residents with daily living needs, conflict resolution, and transition planning.
Coordinating pet care with clients and community partners.
Facilitate or support shelter-based groups and psychoeducational activities.
Coordinate with internal teams and community partners as appropriate.
Complete follow-up support and documentation related to shelter services.
Community Services Team
Provide case management, legal advocacy, group, and referrals to non-residential clients in the 9-county service area (KY: Bullitt, Henry, Jefferson, Oldham, Spencer, Shelby, Trimble; IN: Clark, Floyd).
Deliver mobile advocacy to clients in a setting deemed safe by both the client and advocate in the 9-county service area.
Respond to in-person walk-in clients seeking immediate support.
Coordinate with community partners, social service agencies, law enforcement, and healthcare providers as appropriate.
Complete follow-up support and documentation related to the services listed above.
Travel in 9-county service area on a regular basis using CWF and/or personal vehicle.
Experience and Educational Requirements
Bachelor’s degree preferred.
A minimum of three (3) years of experience in advocacy, crisis response, or human services may substitute for a degree.
Skills & Competencies
Strong interpersonal communication, active listening, and de-escalation skills.
Ability to respond effectively in high-pressure or crisis situations.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and electronic documentation systems.
Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
Other Requirements
Valid driver’s license and driving record that meets agency insurance requirements.
Successful completion of a background check.
Ability to work flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and on-call shifts as required by program role.
Fluency in languages other than English is a plus.
Environment & Physical Demands
Frequent interaction with clients, staff, and community partners.
Work environment varies by program and may include call center, shelter, hospital, or community-based settings.
Requires sitting, standing, walking, and mobility throughout facilities and community locations.
Ability to lift up to 25 lbs independently and up to 70 lbs with assistance.
Ability to work in high-stress environments requiring emotional resilience and adherence to self-care practices.
