Holistic Defender Advocate - AmeriCorps Public Service

Missouri State Public Defender; Carthage (MO); On-site; USD 26,000 - 31,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Living allowance

Segal AmeriCorps education award

Student loan deferment

Scholarships and waivers

Job summary

Missouri State Public Defender (MSPD) seeks Holistic Advocates to join the Holistic Defense Services Program in collaboration with AmeriCorps Missouri. You will connect clients to essential resources and document their journeys, supported by experienced attorneys and a statewide team.

The role emphasizes building trust across diverse communities, facilitating access to services, and contributing to evidence-based improvements in Missouri’s criminal legal system. Training is provided.

Qualifications

• Empathetic, resourceful, non-judgmental, organized with a passion for public service.
• Ability to build rapport and trust with people from diverse backgrounds.
• Strong writing and advocacy skills are beneficial for the role.

Responsibilities

• Connect clients to a wide range of resources (housing, mental health, substance use treatment, transportation).
• Help clients obtain IDs and health insurance to reduce barriers.
• Uncover clients’ stories through interviews to provide a holistic perspective.
• Rally community support and collect letters of support to amplify clients’ voices.
• Build relationships with community partners to ensure access to needed services.
• Contribute to data-driven impact by tracking outcomes of the work.

Skills

Empathy

Resourcefulness

Non-judgmental attitude

Organizational skills

Strong writing skills

Advocacy skills

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Bachelor's degree preferred

Specialization in social work/psychology/sociology or related field preferred

Job description

Missouri State Public Defender (MSPD) seeks Holistic Advocates to join the Holistic Defense Services Program in collaboration with AmeriCorps Missouri. You will connect clients to essential resources and document their journeys, supported by experienced attorneys and a statewide team.

The role emphasizes building trust across diverse communities, facilitating access to services, and contributing to evidence-based improvements in Missouri’s criminal legal system. Training is provided.