Trauma‑Informed Victim Services Advocate

City of Lincoln; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

UCAN Chicago seeks a Victim Services Advocate to support youth and adults affected by gun and street violence through crisis intervention, case management, and advocacy in community, hospital, and office settings.

Using trauma-informed practice and Positive Youth Development, you will provide individualized support, connect participants to resources, and collaborate with VIPS and UCAN teams to promote safety and healing.

Qualifications

• BSW or BA/BS in a human service field or relevant experience.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience working with victims of crime, preferably gun violence or trauma survivors.
• Must have a valid driver’s license, valid auto insurance, and a registered vehicle.
• Certification in crisis response and/or victim advocacy.
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal resources for crime victims.
• Knowledge of local community resources (services providers, programs).

Responsibilities

• Demonstrates supportive behavior and role models positive appropriate interactions.
• Maintains in-person contact with each active participant on a weekly basis, at minimum.
• Provide direct case management and emergency support services to participants and their families in community, hospitals, and in office.
• Provide support and advocacy to the participant and their families through home visits, hospital visits, phone calls, criminal justice advocacy, and referrals to other community organizations.
• Assist participants in accessing resources, such as Victim’s Compensation, Short Term Disability, affordable healthcare, and mental health services.
• Required to participate in team meetings and required trainings.
• Actively participates in committees (AIC, Diversity) and agency events.
• Engage with partner agencies to create network of support for individuals and their families affected by violence.
• Works interdepartmentally to foster UCAN continuum of care and suggest improvements from participant’s perspective.
• Coordinates and facilitates activities for workshops and groups for program participants.

Skills

Trauma-informed care

Crisis intervention

Positive Youth Development

Advocacy

Education

BSW or BA/BS in a human service field

High school diploma

Certification in crisis response/victim advocacy

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

UCAN Chicago seeks a Victim Services Advocate to support youth and adults affected by gun and street violence through crisis intervention, case management, and advocacy in community, hospital, and office settings.

Using trauma-informed practice and Positive Youth Development, you will provide individualized support, connect participants to resources, and collaborate with VIPS and UCAN teams to promote safety and healing.