Bilingual Family Advocate/MDT Facilitator Job Description

Tu Casa, Inc. is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization providing comprehensive services to victims and children of domestic violence and sexual assault since 1979.

Job Description:

The Family Advocate organizes and provides services and referrals for the children and families who visit the SLV CAC because of allegations of physical or sexual abuse. This includes providing victim advocacy, information and referrals, accompanying children and families to court, and acting as a liaison between the family and the system at large. These services are provided in both English and Spanish.

Reports to: Executive Director

Key Responsibilities:

The Family Advocate will be responsible for, but not limited to the following duties or assignments:

• Assist families during their initial visit to the SLV CAC
  1. Greet the family when they arrive at the Center, spend time with the family as seems appropriate and welcomed.
  2. After the parents/caregivers have met with investigators, meet with them to share brochures, information about community resources, and information about the Victim Compensation Fund and Victim Rights.
  3. Determine whether the family will be working with DSS or not; provide additional services on third-party or out of area cases where there isn’t a caseworker assigned.
  4. Ensure that referrals are made to mental health providers and to support groups.
• Provide ongoing follow-up with families on an as needed basis
  1. Make follow-up calls to all families within 3 weeks, and continue follow-ups as welcomed.
  2. Determine whether additional services and supports are needed, and make referrals as indicated.
  3. Where needed, assist in securing concrete supports – housing, protective orders, food, transportation, public assistance, emergency awards, etc.
• Participate as a member of the Multidisciplinary Team that includes law enforcement, medical providers, social services, mental health providers, and the District Attorney.
• Enter data and maintain a client tracking system.
• Attend community meetings directly related to family services, such as the Child Protection Team and other meetings for coordination among organizations that serve children and families.
• Participate in training on an ongoing basis.
• Work flexibility with other Tu Casa staff; assist in caring for the facility and grounds; support fundraising special events; aid in reaching out to the community; and generally help to assure Tu Casa’s ongoing viability.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor degree in related field or 3 years of equivalent experience
• Pass a criminal history record check
• Possess a valid Colorado driver’s license and automobile insurance
• Are able to engage and interact with diverse age/background of individuals
• Experience with the prevention, investigation, and treatment of child abuse or related civil and criminal processes preferred
• An understanding of the child protection and legal systems (both civil and criminal) including custody issues and the prosecution of child abuse
• Demonstrated ability to work independently while also working as a member of a team
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with other professionals, agencies, schools, and the public
• Organized, detail oriented, and flexible. Able to identify and respond to shifting priorities
• Proven ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple projects
• Excellent organizational, communication (verbal and written), and problem solving skills in English and Spanish
• Proficient computer skills
• Flexible hours, e.g. some evenings and weekends

Requirements:

• Much successfully complete a minimum of 24 hours of instruction including, but not limited to:

• FA must participate in ongoing education in the field of victim advocacy and child maltreatment consisting of a minimum of 8 contact hours every two years.
• Attend Crime Victims’ Rights and Compensation Training annually
• Travel throughout San Luis Valley and surrounding communities as needed