Domestic Violence Advocate

Summary

Reporting to the Legal Advocacy Program Supervisor, the Domestic Violence Advocate (DVA) works in the community to provide domestic violence intervention services. This includes responding to law enforcement calls (ride-a-longs) to provide crisis intervention, screenings, intakes, and resource referrals for survivors seeking emergency shelter. The DVA spends a significant amount of time partnering with law enforcement to respond to domestic violence emergency calls. The DVA works closely with Residential and Community Based Services staff to ensure that all services and programs provided by Human Options operate under the guidelines of trauma-informed care and voluntary services.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Responsible for working with law enforcement in the community to ensure victims of domestic violence are aware of services available.
• The DVA will conduct on-site assessments and follow up on domestic violence incidents to explore the victim’s needs for legal and other supportive services, including but not limited to emergency housing, medical aid, and counseling services.
• Conduct on-scene emergency shelter screenings, as needed, following domestic violence situations, and when necessary, facilitate the process of linking victims (and family members) to emergency shelter housing.
• Carefully assess domestic violence situations for safety and take necessary precautions.
• Provide individual crisis intervention and support, as needed.
• Conduct routine follow-up with the potential clients impacted during the domestic violence intervention to make sure needs are met.