Child Advocate

Helping Hands, Inc.; Aiken (SC); On-site; USD 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

CPR and First Aid certification

Valid driver's license in good standing

Job summary

Helping Hands, Inc. in Aiken, South Carolina is seeking a dedicated professional for client advocacy and case management. The role involves assessing client needs, implementing service plans, and collaborating with multiple partners to ensure effective support.

Ideal candidates should hold a Bachelor's degree in social work or a related field and possess 1-2 years of relevant experience. The position requires strong assessment, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in social work, human services, psychology, or related field preferred.
• 1-2 years of related experience and/or training or equivalent education.
• Ability to perform basic calculations and track client progress.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive client assessments.
• Develop and implement individualized service plans.
• Provide trauma-informed support to children and families.
• Maintain accurate documentation and monitor client progress.
• Collaborate with internal staff and community partners.

Skills

Assessment and Critical Thinking

Problem Solving

Client Service

Communication and Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in social work or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office applications

Electronic documentation systems

Job description

Department: Residential Services

Reports To: Lead Child Advocate

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Summary Provides assessment, advocacy, and case management for clients and families. Develops service plans, coordinates resources, and supports clients in improving functioning and achieving personal goals. Requires participation in on-call rotation. Maintains a caseload of up to 12 clients.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive client assessments to identify needs related to safety, mental health, family dynamics, education, housing, and overall well-being.
• Develop, implement, and regularly update individualized service plans in collaboration with clients and interdisciplinary teams.
• Provide trauma-informed support, crisis intervention, and ongoing guidance to children and families.
• Facilitate individual, family, and group sessions to build coping skills, resilience, and problem-solving abilities.
• Coordinate and connect clients to community-based resources, including medical, educational, housing, and social services.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and compliant documentation, including case notes, assessments, and service reports.
• Monitor client progress, evaluate outcomes, and adjust service plans to ensure effectiveness and goal achievement.
• Collaborate with internal staff, schools, healthcare providers, and community partners to support coordinated care.
• Gather and review supporting documentation (e.g., medical, school, employment records) to inform case planning.
• Assess and support eligibility for financial assistance and other benefit programs.
• Ensure compliance with agency policies, ethical standards, and confidentiality requirements.

Competencies

• Assessment and Critical Thinking: Collects relevant information, recognizes client needs and risks, and uses sound judgment to support effective service planning.
• Problem Solving: Identifies issues, evaluates options, collaborates with others, and supports practical solutions in a timely and professional manner.
• Professional Growth: Pursues training and development opportunities, applies feedback, and continuously builds job-related knowledge and skills.
• Client Service: Responds respectfully and promptly to client needs, maintains appropriate boundaries, follows through on commitments, and supports a positive service experience.
• Communication and Collaboration: Listens actively, communicates clearly, maintains confidentiality, works effectively with clients, families, coworkers, and community partners, and contributes to a positive team environment.
• Documentation: Prepares clear, accurate, timely, and professional written records, reports, correspondence, and service documentation.
• Ethics and Confidentiality: Demonstrates integrity, protects confidential information, treats all individuals with dignity and respect, and upholds agency values and policies.
• Planning and Organization: Prioritizes work, manages time effectively, meets deadlines, follows procedures, and adjusts to changing needs and schedules.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in social work, human services, psychology, education, counseling, or a related field preferred.
• One to two years of related experience and/or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Mathematical and Data Skills

Ability to perform basic calculations, review service-related data, track client progress, and complete required forms and reports accurately.

Technology Skills

• Use Microsoft Office applications, electronic documentation systems, email, calendars, and database or case management software.
• Learn and use agency-approved technology in accordance with confidentiality and data security expectations.

Certificates, Licenses, and Registrations

• Current CPR and First Aid certification.
• Valid driver's license in good standing.
• Any additional credentials required by the agency, funders, or applicable regulations.

Ability to successfully complete a criminal background check