CVI Victim Advocate / Peer Recovery Specialist

Position: Victim Advocate and Peer Recovery Specialist

Department: Community Violence Intervention

Reports: Participant Services Supervisor

Position Summary

The Victim Advocate and Peer Recovery Specialist for the Greater Illinois Reimagine Violence Prevention Services program plays a critical role in addressing the complex needs of individuals and families impacted by community violence. This role blends trauma-informed advocacy, peer-based recovery support, and facilitation of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) group sessions for individuals at high risk of violence. The Specialist provides immediate, compassionate assistance, empowers participants through culturally responsive care, and fosters healing by addressing the root causes of trauma and enhancing coping mechanisms.

 Key Responsibilities:

• Victim Advocacy and Crisis Response
• Provide trauma-informed, in-person crisis intervention immediately following incidents of community violence.
• Support victims and families during critical moments, such as hospital visits, court appearances, and interactions with law enforcement.
• Assist with funeral planning, victim compensation claims, and other essential post-crisis needs.
• Develop safety plans and offer emotional de-escalation to help participants regain stability.
• Peer Recovery Support
• Build trust with participants by leveraging lived experience and providing peer-based coaching grounded in shared understanding.
• Guide participants through structured CBT-based interventions, empowering them to process trauma, develop emotional regulation skills, and make positive choices.
• Facilitate weekly peer support groups focused on recovery, community building, and emotional healing.
• CBT Group Facilitation
• Lead trauma-informed CBT group sessions for high-risk individuals, using culturally relevant approaches to help participants address trauma, improve decision-making, and reduce risk factors.
• Create a safe, inclusive environment for participants to share experiences, practice CBT techniques, and build resilience.
• Tailor group content to reflect participants' unique cultural and socioeconomic experiences, promoting meaningful engagement and empowerment.
• Case Management and Service Coordination
• Manage a caseload of up to 25 participants, providing regular follow-ups, progress assessments, and referrals to wraparound services.
• Coordinate access to critical services such as mental health support, housing assistance, employment opportunities, and legal aid.
• Document all interactions in detailed case logs and program reports, tracking outcomes and progress.
• Collaboration and Community Engagement
• Work closely with healthcare providers, and community-based organizations to deliver holistic, coordinated care.
• Serve as a liaison between participants and community resources, ensuring services are accessible and effective.
• Administrative Responsibilities
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of participant interactions, group sessions, and program milestones.
• Utilize tools such as the IRIS system to track referrals and report monthly outcomes.
• Contribute to initiatives that enhance community impact.
• Additional Responsibilities: Perform other related tasks as required or assigned to support program objectives and community needs.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Communication Skills: Exceptional expressive and receptive communication skills, including the ability to articulate thoughts clearly in both written and verbal formats.
• Multitasking Ability: Proven adeptness in managing multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail and quality of work.
• Technical Proficiency: Strong computer literacy, including proficiency in word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation software, along with effective keyboarding skills.
• Cultural Competence: Open and respectful of the diverse cultural and socioeconomic characteristics of clients; committed to working effectively with a varied client population.

Education and Experience:

• Educational Background: Bachelor’s Social Work, Workforce Development, or a related field is preferred, along with relevant work experience utilizing effective, trauma-informed interventions. Verifiable references are required.
• 1 years of experience in victim advocacy, peer recovery support, trauma-informed services, or violence prevention.
• Demonstrated experience working with underserved or high-risk populations, including formerly incarcerated individuals, survivors of violence, or those experiencing systemic barriers to employment.
• Bilingual (Spanish) is strongly preferred to serve diverse communities effectively.
• Experience in data-driven program implementation, case management, and performance tracking to ensure outcomes are met.
• Certification in Peer Recovery or CBT group facilitation (or willingness to obtain certification within six months of hire) is highly preferred.
• Licensure and Transportation: A valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, and reliable transportation are mandatory.
• Technical Skills: Strong computer skills are essential for effective job performance.

Work Conditions:

• This position may require flexibility in scheduling, including work on weekends, evenings, and nights to meet the needs of participants.

Salary:

• Salary is commensurate with education and experience.
• GRANT-FUNDED PROGRAM
• INTERNAL PREFERRED

Joliet Township Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $40,000.00 - $45,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday
• Weekends as needed

People with a criminal record are encouraged to apply

Work Location: In person

Salary : $40,000 - $45,000