Family Services Advocate

Agency Description

Haywood County has over a thirty year history of combatting adverse childhood experiences. Noted as the number one county in the state of North Carolina for numerous years, the community became determined to remove this title. Formally established as a nonprofit organization in 1991, key individuals throughout the county worked together to develop a volunteer-based school safety program for elementary school students.

As the school program began to grow and the need for trauma-informed services became more prevalent, the Haywood County Child Abuse Task Force was formed. Utilized to provide a community-coordinated response to child abuse and neglect, the task force looked to ensure open communication between those responding to investigations. At the same time, the children's advocacy center movement was occurring throughout the nation.

As an avid businessman and a visionary in the Waynesville community, Mr. Robert Forga along with his wife, Viola, made a child advocacy center possible in Haywood County. The family's vision and dedication to children led them to provide the space for the KARE House. Formally known as "The Robert Forga Family KARE House", the space has allowed thousands of children and families to receive services in a space resembling a residential structure. The living room, toys, and lack of structured space, provide a warm and relaxing space for families. We are a vital resource to the community that often intercedes on behalf of those who do not have a voice.

This rapidly growing agency is currently made up of eight full-time individuals, and one contract individual who are trained to utilize specialized interventions, have over thirty years combined experience working with children and families, and have multiple national certifications in advocacy. Each role is designed to uniquely ensure the long-term success of the agency, as well as, impact each families life.

VISION STATEMENT

Creating a supportive community where all children can grow and thrive free of abuse, neglect, and exploitation.

MISSION STATEMENT

Facilitating a community response to child abuse, neglect, and exploitation in Haywood County through outreach, advocacy, and specialized interventions.

CORE VALUES

Collaboration – We value open communication and engagement with our team, agency partners, and community.

Growth – We cultivate an environment of growth that includes awareness, learning, and adaptability to ensure we remain mindful of best practices.

Respect – We respect all people, maintaining integrity and professional ethics while providing equitable services.

Advocacy – We aim to dismantle adverse childhood experiences by influencing community engagement and utilizing evidence-based practices.

Dedication – We are dedicated to all children, families, team members, and the community.

Victim advocacy support is essential to the reduction of trauma and improving outcomes for children and families in Haywood County. Support and responsibilities are consistent with victims’ rights legislation in North Carolina

Specifics— Candidates are encouraged to read the whole description.

This position is a full-time, grant funded position. This position is currently an exempt position. Personnel must have access to a vehicle, possess a valid driver’s license, and proof of insurance. Must demonstrate proof of legal ability to work in the United States, and if applicable, demonstrate registration with the Selective Service. Occasional in-state and out-of-state travel is required for training.

Working Hours: 36 hours per week; Monday through Thursday; 8:30am-5:30pm. Hours subject to flexibility due to client needs and emergencies. Limited weekend and evening hours required for special events.

Reports to Victim Services Program Manager

Minimum Education/Experience Required:

Required- This position requires a Bachelor’s Degree in a Human Service field (social work, psychology, criminal justice, or other human services related field), a minimum of 2 years professional experience and familiarity with criminal justice, child welfare, or mental health systems. HOWEVER, those with a combination of education and experience are encouraged to apply.

Preferred- Preference of a minimum of one year’s experience working with children and families, National Advocate Credentialing through National Office for Victim Assistance, and/or certificate of completed training from a National Children’s Alliance approved Victim Advocacy course. Bilingual is highly encouraged with a preference on individuals who speak fluent Spanish.

Highly Successful Candidates will be able to build and maintain rapport quickly and maintain contact with families for an extended period, understanding that needs may change throughout the life of the case. They will have familiarity with adverse childhood experiences, sexual abuse, generational trauma, and knowledge of the criminal justice system. This individual will be able to multi-task, proactively communicate to a variety of team members, work with limited resources and time constraints, and proactively engage in the work environment without being asked.

This position will primarily be working with children, ages 3-18 years old, and their caregivers.

General Qualities Required-

- Proven verbal and written communication skills

- Possess good organizational skills

- Knowledge of Haywood County community organizations

- Knowledge of advocacy, victims’ rights, and the dynamics of abuse

- Knowledge of the North Carolina Victims Compensation program

- Ability to utilize crisis management skills effectively

- Proven ability to deescalate high-stress situations

- Proven capacity for collaboration and relationship building

- Ability to maintain a flexible work schedule

- Ability to learn, work independently with little supervision, and make efficient use of time.

- Ability to ensure that services are ethically and culturally sound.

Description of Duties-

Within the limits of the agencies policies, procedures, Haywood County Memorandum of Understanding, and subject to funding availability, the Family Services Advocate is responsible for the following duties to meet the standards set forth by the National Children’s Alliance. These may be completed in coordination with the Haywood County Multi-disciplinary team but are maintained as the primary responsibility of the Family Services Advocate.

Advocacy duties at KARE, Inc. include but are not limited to-

Case Management/Coordination of Services

- Maintain contact with victim and non-offending family members throughout the investigation and prosecution phases

- On behalf of CAC clients, communicate regularly with referral sources through written reports, phone calls, meetings, etc.

- Utilize professional development opportunities to support families during internet crime based investigations with particular resources.

- Ensure the team is properly informed and trained on survivor responses to child abuse, exploitation, and human trafficking.

- Provides court support and facilitate/supervise family engagement while at the center

- Link CAC clients with concrete services when appropriate, including Victims Compensation, protective orders, and other public assistance

- Provide resource coordination and referrals for medical and mental health treatment

- Complete documentation and reports required for case management

- Develop and maintain appropriate forms and record keeping system for the program

- Maintain data tracking system of services and case outcomes

Team Meetings & Data Collection

- Engage and facilitate a monthly meeting with a variety of professionals who have competing needs and timelines

- Collect and prepare OMS data for Initial, Follow-Up, and Youth Surveys

- Assist the Executive Director in the promotion and completion of the OMS Multi-Disciplinary Team survey, bi-annually.

- Review data obtained upon the request of the Executive Director.

Other-

- Additional duties upon request

Salary-

Range available: $43,000 to $45,000

Due to the position being grant-funded, salary cannot exceed the above range.

Benefits-

Dental and Vision Insurance.

Paid vacation and sick time.

Access to telehealth services and AFLAC.

An IRA is available with 3% match for individuals employed at KARE over a year.

All those interested in applying for this position must submit a cover letter AND resume to Savannah Anders at sanders@karehouse.org. Please be prepared to answer follow up questions.

Expected start date is May 1, 2025.

Resumes will be accepted until 4pm on March 17, 2025. KARE is an equal opportunity employer.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $43,000.00 - $45,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Mileage reimbursement
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Day shift

Experience:

• Human Service: 2 years (Preferred)

Language:

• Another language (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Willingness to travel:

• 25% (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $43,000 - $45,000