Domestic Violence Advocate - Community Based

Behavioral Health Network, Inc.; Ware (MA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 36,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits

Great place to work

Job summary

Behavioral Health Network, Inc. is seeking a dedicated Part-Time Outreach Worker to support survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault in Western Massachusetts.

You will conduct community outreach, develop safety plans, coordinate with service providers, and help clients access shelter, financial aid, and other resources. Responsibilities include maintaining accurate records, providing education about abuse dynamics, and linking clients with counseling, legal services, and supporting

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent and/or at least two years of experience working with survivors of Domestic Violence (required).
• Bachelor's Degree in human services, social work, or related field (preferred).
• Completion of at least 20-30 hours of training in domestic violence and sexual assault (required).
• Ability to navigate and handle complicated situations.
• Demonstrated ability in exercising good judgement and taking initiative.
• Respect for others' experiences and desire to empower families from diverse cultures and backgrounds and to work with multi-ethnic survivors.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Valid driver's license & car available for work purposes (required).

Responsibilities

• Conduct domestic violence and sexual assault community outreach and education through support, advocacy, transportation, and referrals.
• Work with survivors to create, implement, and update individual safety plans and case management.
• Assist survivors in emergency situations to obtain shelter, financial assistance, and other basic needs.
• Network with other providers to help survivors access community resources.
• Maintain accurate & timely files, including progress notes, reports, and paperwork to meet contract requirements.
• Offer educational support about the dynamics of abuse.
• Draw out reluctant victims and provide them with information on their rights and the resources available to them.
• Coordinate with appropriate follow-up services and resources including counseling, group support, legal services, and District Attorney Victim Witness Advocates.
• Through BHN's Domestic Violence programs, offer supportive individual and group services to help those who feel unsafe in their relationships.

Skills

Strong communication

Judgement & initiative

Empathy

Problem solving

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Bachelor's degree preferred

Job description

What We Offer:

• Purpose-Driven Work - Make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals, families, and communities throughout Western Massachusetts.
• Professional Growth - Access ongoing training, mentorship, career development, and advancement opportunities across one of the region's largest behavioral health organizations.
• Supportive Team Culture - Join a collaborative workplace guided by our HEART values: Humanity, Empowerment, Accountability, Respect, and Teamwork.
• Stability & Opportunity - Build your career with a well-established organization serving Western Massachusetts since 1938.
• Comprehensive Benefits - Generous PTO, 403(b), educational assistance, medical, dental, vision, employee assistance programs, and more.
• Certified Great Place to Work - Work for an organization recognized for creating a positive and engaging employee experience.

What You Will Do:

• Conducting domestic violence and sexual assault community outreach and education through support, advocacy, transportation, and referrals.
• Working with survivors to create, implement, and update individual safety plans and case management.
• Assisting survivors in emergency situations to obtain shelter, financial assistance, and other basic needs.
• Networking with other providers to help survivors access community resources.
• Maintaining accurate & timely files, including progress notes, reports, and paperwork to meet contract requirements.
• Offering educational support about the dynamics of abuse.
• Drawing out reluctant victims and providing them with information on their rights and the resources available to them.
• Coordinating with appropriate follow-up services and resources including counseling, group support, legal services, and District Attorney Victim Witness Advocates.
• Through BHN's variety of Domestic Violence programs, we offer supportive individual and group services to help those who feel unsafe in their intimate partnerships or are questioning the health of their dating or partner relationships.

Who You Are:

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent and/or at least two years of experience working with survivors of Domestic Violence (required).
• Bachelor's Degree in human services, social work, or related field (preferred).
• Completion of at least 20-30 hours of training in domestic violence and sexual assault (required).
• Ability to navigate and handle complicated situations.
• Demonstrated ability in exercising good judgement and taking initiative.
• Respect for others' experiences and desire to empower families from diverse cultures and backgrounds and to work with multi-ethnic survivors.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Valid driver's license & car available for work purposes (required).

We Hire for HEART! Since 1938, BHN has delivered high-quality, culturally responsive behavioral health care, building deep roots in Western Massachusetts while expanding its impact in communities throughout the state. Our core values-Humanity, Empowerment, Accountability, Respect, and Teamwork-guide how we lead, serve, and support one another.

BHN maintains its commitment to social justice and diversity and strongly encourages diverse candidates to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Available Schedules: Part Time (22 hours/wk): Monday-Friday, approximately 4 hour morning shiftPay Rate/Range: $23.75/hr