Job Description
Job DescriptionJob SummaryResponsible for providing crisis intervention, information and referrals, medical advocacy, and institutional advocacy on behalf of sexual assault survivors at hospitals in the Carbondale/Marion area.This position requires the advocate to attend 5-6 meetings per month at the Carbondale office (meetings last 1-2 hours and are held between 8am-12pm), to be on-call overnights 5 days per week (9pm-9am) and for one 24-hour shift once per week (Saturday or Sunday). While on-call, the advocate will be responsible for answering any SA related crisis hotline calls that come in, and going to local hospitals to provide support when a survivor comes in for treatment related to SA. There is a base pay while on-call, additional pay during every hotline call or hospital visit, and travel reimbursement. Advocates will have frequent interactions with survivors of SA, SEC staff, hospital staff, and law enforcement officers. Advocates must have their own vehicle and valid driver's license, registration and auto insurance.Essential Functions Provides emotional, technical support, and individual advocacy to survivors of sexual assault and non-offending significant others during their interactions with the criminal justice and medical systems. Provides institutional advocacy with the medical institutions on behalf of the sexual assault victims. Responsible for all needed SAS program crisis intervention, in person or telephonically, by self or volunteers, 12-24 hours a day on assigned days. Serves as a liaison with law enforcement and State's Attorney's offices concerning the status of clients' sexual assault cases and documents this information, including results of legal action, and inform survivors. Documents all contacts with clients and provides this documentation to the Program Manager. Develops advocacy training materials and programs. Attends regular scheduled staff meetings. Attends ICASA training and other professional training as requested by the SAS Program Manager.Serves on task forces, committees, etc., as requested by the SAS Program Manager. Compiles statistical information monthly and reports it to appropriate staff for inclusion in ICASA report. Performs other related duties as assigned by management. Returns all medical paperwork to Program Manager within 48 hours of go-out.Requirements High School Diploma or equivalent experience and previous volunteer experience in social services preferred. Knowledge of sexual assault/domestic violence issues and previous training on those issues preferred. Strong people and organizational skills with the ability to set priorities and give attention to detail. Ability to communicate orally in conversation both in person and by telephone. Ability to work well with people from a variety of racial, ethnic, socioeconomic, sexual orientation, and age groups, and with individuals who are differently-abled. Ability to deal with stress-related situations.Ability to interact with others and remain focused while dealing with multiple objectives and timelines. Ability to maintain confidentiality. Ability to work in a team setting and embrace the concept of teamwork. Must be able to work independently. A demonstrated commitment to women and non-violence through previous volunteer work or employment preferred. Must be willing to be on-call 24 hours, certain number of days per week. Must be willing to carry a cell phone and to cover on-call/volunteer time when necessary. Willingness to complete the required 40-hour Sexual Assault training for the position within 3 months of employment. Must have current driver's license, car with current automobile insurance, and a willingness to travel.