What are the responsibilities and job description for the Domestic Violence Services Housing Advocate position at Children & Families of Iowa?
Description
This position reports to the Director of Outreach Services for our Domestic Violence Services Program and is responsible for providing housing advocacy and transitional housing services to clients.
Benefits Include:
80 hours of paid vacation after 90 days of employment and up to 160 hours with service
80 hours of paid sick time within the first year of employment and accrue up to 480 hours
8 paid holidays
5 days of bereavement
401k retirement plan with company matching funds
Health and dental Insurance
Life insurance
Sample Job Duties:
1. Provide Transitional and Rapid Rehousing advocacy and services for clients of Children and Families of Iowa Domestic Violence Services, including assessments, information, and referrals to support self-sufficiency in the community. Interactions may occur in person, via crisis lines, or in group settings. Conduct comprehensive assessments to determine clients’ housing needs and eligibility for services.
2. Develop individualized service plans that outline goals and available resources for clients during their Transitional and Rapid Rehousing experience. Case management meetings will be conducted in their homes.
3. Network with landlords, housing authorities, and other community resources to facilitate client access to safe and stable housing.
4. Offer continuous support during clients’ transition to new housing to ensure successful stabilization. Conduct groups and classes that assist clients in transitioning to independent living.
5. Provide guidance and resources for clients seeking rapid rehousing options, ensuring quick access to permanent housing. Assist clients with navigating the application processes for rapid rehousing programs and financial assistance.
6. Coordinate support services, such as counseling, job training, and financial literacy programs, to help clients achieve stability.
7. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of domestic violence to effectively serve clients, educate the community, and ensure compliance with certification standards.
8. Actively participate in advocate and All Staff Team meetings to communicate and serve clients effectively and to obtain information related to the job. Keep continued communication with DVS Outreach Staff to assist exiting clients to become knowledgeable of Outreach Services.
9. Work as a team member with all DVS staff as needed. Provide shelter and outreach staffing support when needed. When needed or required, consult with the on-call supervisor for assistance and guidance.
10. Weekly Outreach office hours, answering crisis line, and assessing individuals for services.
Requirements
Associate's degree in psychology, sociology, social work, or human service-related field. Two years' experience of working in the field of domestic violence and/or closely related human services field required. Knowledge of housing issues and resources as pertaining to victims of domestic violence preferred. Knowledge of crisis intervention, women's issues, and victim advocacy also preferred. Valid driver's license and ability to provide own transportation for job duties. Ability and willingness to obtain a Certified Domestic Abuse Advocate certification within the required time frame.
Candidates who are bi-lingual are encouraged to apply.
Children & Families of Iowa does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, identity, genetic information, marital status, sexual orientation, age, religion, veteran status, political belief, physical or mental disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.
