Bilingual Children’s Advocate

Bilingual Children’s Advocate

• Schedule: Tuesday through Saturday, 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• Full Time/Non-Exempt: 36-hours a week
• $37,440 annually

Description

The Bridge is seeking a Bilingual Children’s Advocate works to address the specialized needs of child and youth survivors of domestic violence and child abuse. The Bilingual Children’s Advocate works in partnership with the family to ensure a comprehensive, timely response that addresses all areas of the young survivor’s safety and survival. The Bilingual Children’s Advocate also works closely with the Counseling Services and case management staff, as well as outside agencies to respond effectively to families living in a 100-bed emergency shelter setting. Plans and facilitates children’s programs by coordinating educational and recreational opportunities for children and youth; maintain schedule of events; makes appropriate and timely referrals to Parent Educator.

Encourages children’s participation by initiating and demonstrating interactive activities. Prepares and orients children and families to the program by providing information regarding the impact of domestic violence, minimizing psychological trauma, helping children and families to maintain normal routines. Acts as liaison between school district and clients attending the schools to ensure district compliance with the McKinney-Vento Act, providing educational advocacy regarding special education services and addressing behavioral issues with children. Provide transportation for children to school, field trips, etc.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Knowledge of the dynamics of domestic/sexual violence and the impact on children of all ages.
• Ability to quickly establish rapport and communicate effectively with diverse populations.
• Must be able to work flexible schedule; primarily Sunday through Thursday or Tuesday through Saturday, with occasional evening and weekend hours as needed to meet program needs.
• Basic understanding of childhood development.
• Ability to document in a clear and concise manner.
• A High School Diploma/GED required, plus two-three years’ experience working in child advocacy arena.
• Bilingual English/Spanish required.
• Good communication skills; both verbal and written.

Preferred, but not required

Bachelor’s/ Associate’s Degree in Child Development.

Other Requirements

• Must pass criminal background investigation check
• Must be authorized to work in the U.S
• Must provide and maintain current auto liability insurance
• Must provide and maintain clean driving record and annually update driving record
• Must pass drug screen
• Must be able to lift/carry (40) lbs, and ascend/descend stairs in emergency shelter setting.
• Must provide and maintain current TX Driver’s License