Direct Service Advocate

Ford's Hometown Services; Littleton (NH); On-site; USD 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

Ford's Hometown Services is seeking a Direct Service Advocate in Littleton, New Hampshire. This role involves providing trauma-informed and survivor-centered support to individuals affected by domestic and sexual violence. Responsibilities include crisis intervention, advocacy, and collaborating with community partners.

The ideal candidate will have an associate degree or relevant experience, with required training upon hire. The position demands flexibility for on-call shifts and a commitment to maintaining confidentiality while providing emotional support in challenging situations.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in human services, criminal justice, psychology, or a related field; or two years of relevant experience.
• Completion of the 30-hour Response Training Program required upon hire.
• Understanding of domestic and sexual violence; advocacy or crisis intervention experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide in-person and phone-based advocacy for individuals impacted by domestic and sexual violence.
• Build collaborative relationships with local partners.
• Serve as scheduled staff backup on the 24/7 support line.

Skills

Crisis intervention

Emotional support

Safety planning

Advocacy

Education

Associate degree in human services or related field

Job description

Position Summary

The Direct Service Advocate provides trauma‑informed, survivor‑centered support to individuals impacted by domestic and sexual violence and stalking. Support includes crisis intervention, emotional support, safety planning, court and medical advocacy, and connection to resources.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Direct Advocacy Services

• Provide in‑person and phone‑based advocacy for individuals impacted by domestic and sexual violence and stalking.
• Offer crisis intervention, emotional support, safety planning, peer support, and referrals.
• Facilitate and/or support survivor support groups, as assigned.
• Accompany clients to hospitals, police departments, Child Advocacy Centers (CACs), and court proceedings as needed.
• Assist with shelter intake and follow‑up support when appropriate.
• Maintain accurate, timely, and appropriate data entries in the client services database.

On‑Call Coverage

• Serve as scheduled staff backup on the 24/7 support line rotation, including nights and weekends.
• Participate in other on‑call shifts as assigned, such as weekday daytime coverage.
• Provide support to on‑call volunteers during shifts as needed.

Community Collaboration & Communication

• Build collaborative relationships with local partners such as law enforcement, healthcare, legal, and social services.
• Participate in local community meetings, multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings, and case reviews as assigned.
• Participate in outreach and awareness events to promote services and community engagement.
• Attend regular staff meetings, supervision, and staff development opportunities.
• Communicate effectively with team members regarding coverage, client needs, and service delivery.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate degree in human services, criminal justice, psychology, or a related field; or a minimum of two years of relevant experience.
• Completion of the 30‑hour Response Training Program (required upon hire) to ensure understanding of confidentiality, privilege, and program standards.
• Maintain a minimum of 6 hours of annual training relevant to advocacy and trauma‑informed care.
• Understanding of domestic and sexual violence; advocacy or crisis intervention experience preferred.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and act with professionalism and empathy in client interactions.

Other Requirements

• Valid NH driver’s license, reliable transportation, and adequate insurance coverage.
• Willingness and ability to work outside of regular business hours, including evenings and weekends.
• Ability to work in emotionally demanding environments; strong self‑care and boundary‑setting skills recommended.
• Flexibility to adapt to a dynamic work pace and shifting priorities.

Working Conditions & Physical Demands

• Office based with regular local travel required.
• Requires sitting for extended periods and occasional lifting (up to 25 lbs).
• Frequent interaction with individuals in crisis or distress; emotionally demanding at times.