Victim Services Advocate (11770)

Date: Sep 11, 2023

Location: Washington, DC, US, 20016

Company: American University

Get to Know American University

At American University we value open and honest inquiry, servant leadership, and the affirmation of the human dignity of all. We envision a thriving AU community where individuals of all identities and experiences are understood, appreciated, and fully included, and where equitable treatment, opportunities, and outcomes prevail. 

 

Our diverse community of students, faculty, and staff represent every state and more than 150 countries. Our internationally recognized faculty are today's thought leaders in the areas of public policy, law, the arts, communications, international development, and more. Our staff are innovative, service-oriented, and dedicated to moving the university towards achieving its strategic goals. We are committed to an excellent experience for all of our students, faculty and staff and share a passion for creating change through our knowledge and our work. 

 

Learn more about American University by clicking here.  

Summary/Objective

Under the supervision of the Director of Clinical Services, the Victim Services Advocate (VSA) will serve as a confidential victim advocate for students, providing confidential, survivor-focused services and resources to students seeking support and information in response to experiences involving sexual, gender-based and intimate partner violence, sexual harassment, and stalking. The VSA will provide advocacy and support services in accordance with federal and local laws, and university policies.

Essential Functions

  1. Confidential Victim Advocacy: In accordance with Center policies and procedures, provide confidential and survivor-focused services, including post-crisis management and discussing options for counseling and advocacy referrals both on and off campus, to AU students who experience any form of sexual, gender-based and intimate partner violence, sexual harassment, or stalking. Work closely with campus partners, such as Title IX, Dean of Students, and AUPD to provide seamless referrals, collaborate on improving processes, update policies, and more all to maintain high standards of care for student survivors. Maintain up-to-date and accurate records in a secure electronic system of services and referrals to ensure comprehensive quality care for clients. Manage accurate statistical data that reflect victim/survivor service provision and compliance. Adhere to confidentiality standards when working with clients.
  2. Prevention Education: Collaborate with the Sexual Assault Prevention Coordinator to help with the following: Review and modify training and workshop materials to be used in campus-wide student trainings around sexual and intimate partner violence and related matters, Create trainings for specific community constituencies, as needed (faculty, staff, and students), with learning objectives for each group, and Ensure trainings are culturally sensitive and provide information on how to work with traditionally underserved communities, including students of color, LGBTQ students, international students, and graduate students.
  3. Administrative Responsibilities: Stay abreast of current developments in the college sexual assault field by participating in professional online forums and reviewing current literature and research. Keep informed of related policy directives and legislation including Title IX, the Violence Against Women Act, the Clery Act, and other legislation/resources that may emerge.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

  • Full Time, 35 hours/week.
  • Exempt.
  • 12 months basis.
  • Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the department.
  • Some evening and weekend hours required.
  • Some travel possible.

Salary Range

  • Commensurate with experience.

Required Education and Experience

  • Master's degree in social work, or equivalent degree that allows for independent practice as an advocate.
  • 1-3 years of relevant full-time experience.
  • Credentials from a national advocate credentialing program or similar entity (or eligibility to gain credentials within 6 months of hire) is required.

Preferred Education and Experience

  • 2-4 years of relevant full-time experience in the field of victim services and a knowledge and understanding of the dynamics of interpersonal and sexual violence and related issues on a college campus is preferred.
  • Familiarity with local Washington, D.C. area resources for survivor support is strongly preferred.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

  • Commitment to equity, inclusion, social justice, and cultural competence and the ability to work in a multicultural environment.
  • Demonstrated skills in a variety of educational methods including presentations, workshops, trainings, individual behavior change sessions, and small group discussion/facilitation.
  • Flexibility to work in structured and unstructured learning environments and to interact as a team member with professional and administrative staff members.
  • Sensitivity to the confidential nature of health-related information.
  • Strong interpersonal communication skills, demonstrated ability to provide leadership among peers.
  • Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously, manage time efficiently, and prioritize tasks.

Benefits

AU offers a competitive benefits package including a 200% matching retirement plan, tuition benefits for full-time staff and their families, several leadership development certificates, and has been recognized by the American Heart Association as a fit-friendly worksite. Click here to learn about American University's unique benefit options.

 

Other Details

  • Hiring offers for this position are contingent on successful completion of a background check.
  • Employees in staff positions at American University must deliver their services to the university from either the District of Columbia, Maryland, or Virginia, or perform work on-site at the university.
  • Please note this job announcement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

 

Current American University Employees

If you are a current employee at American University, please log into AsuccessfulU through the myAU portal. Once in AsuccessfulU, please select the Careers tile which will take you to our internal career page. 

 

Contact Us

For more information or assistance with the American University careers site, email theworkline@american.edu.

 

American University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action institution that operates in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The university does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex (including pregnancy), age, sexual orientation, disability, marital status, personal appearance, gender identity and expression, family responsibilities, political affiliation, source of income, veteran status, an individual’s genetic information or any other bases under federal or local laws (collectively "Protected Bases") in its programs and activities.


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