Job Information
City of New York Violence Response Senior Advocate in New York, New York
Job Description
The Bronx District Attorney’s Office is seeking a well-qualified staff whose diverse backgrounds reflect an ability to serve the 1.4 million members of the Bronx County community and pursue a safer Bronx through fair justice. The Crime Victims Assistance Unit is seeking Violence Response Senior Advocate to provide crime victims with trauma-informed counseling and support services. Services are not contingent upon an arrest; crisis and supportive services are provided, nonetheless.
Job Responsibilities
Provide over site of Violence Response Team in absence of Violence Response Supervisor which may include on call on evening and weekends
Engaging with victims/families/witnesses of non-fatal shootings and other violent crimes as first responders, at the earliest practical stage after the incident occurs, when supportive needs are greatest.
Providing immediate emotional support and offering concrete services and referrals, such as providing psychological first aid on the field, safety planning and crisis resolution.
Meeting with victims/families/witnesses at hospitals/precincts/homes.
Coordinating with NYPD and ON CALL Assistant District Attorneys in making connections with victims/families/witnesses.
Regular follow up and check-ins with these clients, with continual assessment of their needs.
Attending meetings, trainings, and organizing educational presentations to staff and community on topics related to understanding the needs of the Bronx community who are victims of violent crimes and providing information and resources.
Attending precinct roll call meetings to offer sensitivity training and act as a bridge between the community and law enforcement.
Partnering and collaborating with other programs that address gun violence and violent crimes.
Developing a plan to offer sustainable remedy to enable clients to resume a level of normalcy to their lives with the goal of promoting a healthier and safer lifestyle
Providing information about the criminal justice system and court accompaniment.
Assessing safely needs and working collaboratively with the Witness Security Program to provide short term safer housing option.
Working with the Relocation Advocate to develop long term safer and affordable housing options. Intake of victims/families/witnesses of all crime types to determine safety and resource needs.
Explaining the Criminal Justice process.
Assisting clients with the completion of and filing of victim compensation claims with NYS OVS.
Preparing letters and forms to assist with other entitlements, such as housing.
Referring to city partners, including public and private agencies, to provide supportive and concrete services.
Connect clients to onsite therapy through CVAU when needed.
Conferring and collaborating with the assigned ADAs on cases.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree required, degree may be substituted for 3 years Victim Advocacy.
Bi-lingual (Spanish/English) preferred.
In depth knowledge of Bronx Neighborhoods.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
Experience working with victims/survivors.
Ability to use and navigate public transportation.
Excellent interpersonal skills.
Able to multi-task.
Qualifications
A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college and two years of experience in community work or community centered activities in an area related to the duties described above; or
High school graduation or equivalent and six years of experience in community work or community centered activities in an area related to the duties as described above; or
Education and/or experience which is equivalent to "1" or "2" above. However, all candidates must have at least one year of experience as described in "1" above.
Additional Information
The City of New York is an inclusive equal opportunity employer committed to recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce and providing a work environment that is free from discrimination and harassment based upon any legally protected status or protected characteristic, including but not limited to an individual's sex, race, color, ethnicity, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, gender identity, or pregnancy.