Paid Advocate

Your Safe Haven Inc; Bedford (Bedford County); Hybrid; USD 3,099 - 24,796; Part time

Job summary

Your Safe Haven Inc is seeking a Paid Advocate to provide trauma-informed crisis response and victim advocacy services for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. This role ensures 24/7 support, responding to hotline calls and in-person requests from hospitals and law enforcement. Minimum qualifications include a high school diploma and strong interpersonal skills. Compensation includes a stipend and hourly pay for direct services provided. Training and on-call requirements are also included in the role.

Qualifications

• Experience in victim services, social services, healthcare, or a related field preferred.
• Ability to complete required training and certification for victim advocacy.
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

Responsibilities

• Respond to hotline calls during assigned on-call shifts.
• Provide immediate crisis intervention and emotional support.
• Complete timely, accurate documentation of all client interactions.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Crisis intervention

Communication skills

Advocacy knowledge

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Associate's or Bachelor's degree

Job description

Position Summary

The Paid Advocate is a trained, on-call professional responsible for providing immediate, trauma-informed crisis response and victim advocacy services to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and related crimes.

This role is a critical extension of Your Safe Haven's direct service team, ensuring 24/7/365 coverage for survivors seeking support. Paid Advocates respond to hotline calls and in-person requests from hospitals, law enforcement, and community partners. This position is part of a broader agency strategy to stabilize staffing capacity, reduce burnout, and ensure consistent survivor-centered care.

Core Responsibilities

Crisis Response & Direct Advocacy

• Respond to hotline calls during assigned on-call shifts
• Provide immediate crisis intervention, safety planning, and emotional support
• Respond in-person (as required) to hospitals (e.g., SANE exams), law enforcement requests, and emergency shelters or safe locations
• Support survivors in understanding their rights and available options

Survivor Support & Navigation

• Provide information and referrals to community resources
• Assist with safety planning and next steps following crisis intervention
• Maintain a survivor-centered, empowerment-based approach at all times
• Uphold strict confidentiality in accordance with agency policy and law

Documentation & Communication

• Complete timely, accurate documentation of all client interactions
• Enter required data into agency systems (as applicable)
• Communicate with staff regarding follow-up needs and case transitions
• Participate in case handoffs to full-time advocacy staff

Professional Conduct & Boundaries

• Maintain clear professional boundaries with clients and partners
• Represent Your Safe Haven professionally in all interactions
• Adhere to agency policies, including Code of Conduct and confidentiality standards

Training & Professional Development

• Successfully complete 80 hours of required advocate training prior to independent response
• Participate in required continuing education and annual professional development
• Attend periodic team meetings, debriefs, and skill-building sessions (as required)

Other Duties

This job description is not designed to cover all activities, duties, or responsibilities required of the employee. Duties may change as organizational needs evolve.

On-Call & Compensation

Immediate Supervisor: Victim Services Manager
Team Placement: Direct Services
Work Location: Remote / On-Site - for training/meetings
Effective Date: 4.15.26

Compensation: On-call advocates will receive a stipend of $2.25 per hour for all scheduled on-call hours, including evenings and weekends. On-call hours worked during designated organizational holidays will be compensated at a rate of $3.00 per hour. In addition to the on-call stipend, advocates will be compensated for actual time worked providing direct services to clients. This includes time spent responding to crisis calls by phone and providing in-person support, such as hospital accompaniment or emergency response. All direct service time will be paid at a rate of $18.00 per hour.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; Associate's or Bachelor's preferred
• Experience in victim services, social services, healthcare, or related field preferred
• Ability to complete required training and certification for victim advocacy
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to remain calm and responsive in crisis situations
• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation
• Act 33/34 Child Abuse Clearances (upon hire)
• Pennsylvania State Police Criminal History (upon hire)
• FBI Clearance (upon hire)

Preferred Qualifications

• Prior experience in domestic violence or sexual assault advocacy
• Experience working with law enforcement, hospitals, or court systems
• Bilingual or multilingual abilities