Child Advocate - SERV (4426)

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Location: Gloucester County

Job Type: Full Time

Salary: $22 to $25 per hour

Position Summary: The Child Advocate is responsible for providing specialized support and advocacy services to children and families who have experienced domestic violence. The role involves creating a safe and nurturing environment within the shelter, facilitating age‑appropriate interventions, and collaborating with shelter staff to ensure the overall well‑being of residents. This position reports to the Residential Supervisor.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the shelter team to develop and implement safety plans for children and their families.
• Conduct individual counseling sessions with children to address trauma and emotional challenges.
• Facilitate support groups and activities that promote healing, resilience, and positive coping mechanisms.
• Work closely with other shelter staff, including advocates, counselors, and case managers, to ensure a coordinated and holistic approach to supporting families.
• Collaborate with external agencies, schools, and community organizations to access additional resources and support for children.
• Provide educational workshops for parents on understanding and addressing the impact of domestic violence on children.
• Conduct outreach and awareness campaigns within the community to promote understanding of the unique needs of children in domestic violence situations.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of all interactions with children and families.
• Prepare regular reports on the progress and outcomes of child advocacy services.
• Stay informed about best practices in child advocacy, trauma‑informed care, and domestic violence intervention.
• Participate in ongoing training and professional development opportunities to enhance skills and knowledge.
• Provide phone assistance to the Residential Advocate as needed.
• Assist with duties to ensure the success of the program.

Requirements:

• Successfully complete 60 hours of the New Jersey State Confidential Sexual Violence Advocacy Training and Domestic Violence Response Team training provided by Services Empowering Rights of Victims (SERV).
• Previous experience working with children who have experienced trauma, preferably in a domestic violence or crisis intervention setting.
• Knowledge of child development, trauma‑informed care, and the dynamics of domestic violence.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively within a team and with external partners.
• Empathic professional who demonstrates a strong commitment to social justice, cultural humility, and equity.
• People of color, people with disabilities, women, and LGBTQ candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Survivors of sexual violence, domestic violence, and human trafficking are strongly encouraged to apply.
• A bachelor's degree in a related field such as social work, psychology, counseling, or a relevant human services discipline is preferred. Experience may substitute for education on a year‑to‑year basis.

Working Conditions: The Child Advocate may be required to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to accommodate the needs of shelter residents. The position may involve exposure to emotionally challenging situations.

Benefits: Excellent paid time off (PTO) program, including vacation, sick, personal, and holiday; 401(k) Plan; Medical insurance plan options; Prescription Insurance; Life Insurance; Flexible Spending Accounts; Ongoing Training.