To apply: Email Resume and Cover Letter to [email protected], Attn: Human Resources
Job Classification: Volunteer, unpaid
Department: Rape Crisis Program
Reporting Manager: Rape Crisis Program Manager/LGBTQ+ Program Manager
Location of Job: Safe Harbor locations (Ventura, Simi Valley), and other approved locations
Summary of Position:
Rape Crisis Community Advocates provide in-person advocacy to survivors of sexual violence at our Safe Harbors or other approved locations in Ventura County. Advocates will work closely with forensic nurses, law enforcement, the District Attorney’s Office, and other community partners. A Rape Crisis Advocate has strong advocacy skills that embrace understanding, compassion, survivor-centered practices, and have experience working with vulnerable communities.
Volunteer Requirements
- Provide in-person advocacy to victims of sexual violence in need of support with forensic exams, crisis counseling, interviews, filing police reports, or other types of advocacy. Advocate must respond to calls within ONE hour of receiving notice of the accompaniment.
- Provide referrals, assessments, crisis intervention, advocacy, and follow-up services for victims of sexual violence; follow-up must happen within 72 hours.
- Complete and collect all required forms from survivors, and submit them to the SART Coordinator. Submit monthly volunteer time logs.
- May volunteer to participate in outreach opportunities with community partners, which may include resource fairs, or presentations to bring awareness to our services.
Schedule
- One weekend shift per month commitment for one year: 3pm – 11pm, Saturday or Sunday
- Monthly on-call volunteer shifts are available
- Being available for the complete 8-hour shift is required
Required Training (Provided by the Coalition)
- Must obtain Sexual Assault Counselor certification that meets the requirements under California Evidence Code 1305.2
- Optional to obtain Domestic Violence Counselor certification that meets the requirements under California Evidence Code 1037.1
- Must complete our LGBTQ+ 101 Training within 6 months of hire date.
Knowledge Base/Skills
- Must demonstrate advocacy and crisis counseling skills.
- Must have strong communication skills both written and verbal.
Mental/Social Requirements
- Demonstrate working effectively with and showing respect to all survivors of violence, including those from diverse ethnic, cultural, religious, socioeconomic, sexual orientations, gender/gender expression, and political backgrounds.
- Demonstrate ability to navigate crisis and problem solve independently, using best judgment and protocols in place for the Rape Crisis Program.
- Maintain a positive, friendly, and welcoming attitude with staff and clients within the organization.
- Utilize assertiveness, professionalism and non-violent communication when speaking with clients, staff, or community partners.
Physical Requirements
- English proficiency required, bilingual in English and Spanish desired.
- Must have the ability to drive a motor vehicle, have a California Class C driver’s license, proof of car insurance, and a reliable mode of transportation. Position will require Advocate to drive personal vehicle to various sites within Ventura County to provide services.
- Locations of client exams and interviews may vary but include Safe Harbor West in Ventura and Safe Harbor East in Simi Valley.
- Must have the ability to communicate with clientele over phone, electronically, and in-person.
- May be required to stand, sit, bend, and lift/move up to 20 lbs.
- Coalition for Family Harmony may accommodate these physical requirements upon request.
Other Information
- Must pass a Live Scan background check.
- Travel by car is required for this position. Valid Driver’s License, auto-insurance, a clear driving record and reliable transportation is required.
- Position is eligible for a monthly charity mileage reimbursement of 14 cents per mile (IRS rate).
- Upon completion of 1 year of volunteer service, volunteers receive a California State Sexual Assault Counselor Certification from the Coalition.
EEO: Coalition for Family Harmony is proud to be an equal employment opportunity employer;
all applicants will be given full consideration under state, local, and federal law.