Bi-lingual Family Advocate

This Bilingual (English/Spanish) position provides information, advocacy, referrals and case management services to children and their non-offending care givers referred to the Multidisciplinary Investigative Team (MDT) and Child Advocacy Center (CAC). Referrals to the MDT/CAC are in response to abuse allegations reported to law enforcement and/or the Department of Children and Families., Program

• Meets with non-offending guardian(s) at time of forensic interview to address their questions and/or concerns, explain and educate guardian(s) regarding the legal process, supply verbal and written information on victims' rights, provide education on child abuse, forensic medical exams and mental health resources.
• Refers children and families to appropriate social services, medical agencies, and mental health providers. Completes all referral paperwork and ensures all information regarding referrals are added to client files and reported in database (s).
• Works collaboratively with the CAC Clinician to facilitate mental health assessments and referrals.
• Attends court to support child and non-offending guardian(s) and/or to monitor cases as needed.
• Provides ongoing follow-up with non-offending guardian(s) including information about civil and criminal legal proceedings.
• Assists CAC Director with scheduling forensic interviews with assigned MDT team members and non-offending guardian(s). Follows client's case from initial assault to conclusion and monitors cases through prosecution.
• Participates in semi-monthly team meetings for the purpose of case review, planning and coordination. Provides MDT members with accurate and updated verbal reports regarding case management, client advocacy and other information.
• Informs and acts as a consultant to team members regarding MDT/Child Advocacy Center (CAC) best practices, policies and procedures.
• Consistent and timely data entry of cases using NCATrak and other case tracking systems.
• Assists CAC Director with Child Abuse Prevention Month event planning.
• Assists the CAC Director with maintaining documentation in order to provide funders/potential funders with appropriate program outlines (i.e. monthly reports, program descriptions, standards, etc.)
• Provides narratives for the Connecticut Children's Alliances quarterly reports and other reports as necessary.
• Implements evaluations to parents and youth through the Outcome Measurement System.
• Perform montly outreach activities and provides community education regarding child abuse and related topics.
• Participate in statewide advocate meetings and trainings

Agency

• Attends assigned HSC meetings.
• Special projects as assigned.
• Participate in and assist in the planning of all agency events.

Do you have a valid Driver's License license?, Do you have experience in Written communication?, Do you have a Bachelor's degree?, * Bachelor's degree in social work, criminal justice, psychology or related field and 3-5 years of experience working with victims of sexual abuse/violence and their families.

• Fluent Bilingual language skills (Spanish and English).
• Understanding of child development including healthy sexual development as well as knowledge of trauma informed services.
• Knowledge of Department of Children and Families response to child abuse.
• Knowledge of law enforcement response to child sexual abuse victims.
• Ability to work with diverse populations including child victims of severe physical and/or sexual abuse.
• Strong commitment to Agency's mission.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational skills and an ability to work independently.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Satisfactory completion of CAC Advocate Training program
• Daily access to a car with a valid CT driver's license.
• Flexible Schedule with occasional evening availability to meet client's needs

Preferred

• Computer literacy, including data entry experience, utilization of software packages, Microsoft word and internet/e-mail.

• Note: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to the classification. They reflect the essential elements and general responsibilities of the position but are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel so classified. The performance of all essential functions listed is subject to reasonable accommodation in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.