Domestic Violence Advocate - STRIVE
JOB CLASSIFICATION: Regular/Full time/Flexible/Exempt
LOCATION: This opportunity is based in Westchester County, New York
JOB OVERVIEW: The Domestic Violence Advocate - STRIVE will serve as a critical frontline member of the Westchester County STRIVE Initiative, working to provide trauma-informed, survivor-centered advocacy to individuals experiencing intimate partner violence (IPV) in Yonkers. This position will work closely with law enforcement, the District Attorney’s Office, Hope’s Door, probation officers, and other key community partners to enhance victim safety, coordinate services, ensure high-risk case follow-up, and support survivors navigating both the criminal and civil justice systems. This role reports directly to the Senior DV Advocate.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Victim Advocacy and Support
- Provide immediate and ongoing advocacy, crisis intervention, safety planning, and resource referrals to survivors of intimate partner violence, with an emphasis on high-risk cases.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for survivors throughout the criminal and/or family court processes.
- Assist victims in understanding their legal rights, protective orders, and available services, including shelter and counseling.
- Attend court proceedings when necessary to support victims, coordinate communication with prosecutors, and ensure survivor concerns are addressed.
- Maintain a trauma-informed, culturally competent, and survivor-centered approach at all times.
Case Coordination and Follow-Up
- Conduct thorough intake assessments for IPV survivors, focusing on safety needs, history of abuse, and risk of lethality.
- Collaborate with Yonkers police officers, probation officers, WCDAO prosecutors, and community-based advocates to ensure comprehensive and coordinated responses to IPV cases.
- Participate actively in High-Risk Team (DVHRT) meetings and case conferences, contributing insights on victim needs and safety strategies.
- Monitor and follow-up with high-risk cases to ensure compliance with court orders and victim safety plans.
Community Engagement and Outreach
- Assist with victim-centered outreach initiatives in Yonkers and Mount Vernon, helping to build trust with the community and increase access to services.
- Collaborate with Hope’s Door, and other STRIVE partners on public awareness campaigns and education initiatives around IPV.
Data Collection and Reporting
- Track services provided and maintain confidential, accurate case documentation in compliance with STRIVE and agency policies.
- Work with the STRIVE Crime Analyst to identify trends, service gaps, and improve victim support strategies.
- Provide timely updates and reports to the STRIVE Program Coordinator and participate in ongoing grant compliance activities.
Professional Development
- Attend ongoing training in trauma-informed care, lethality assessment (LAP), high-risk case management, procedural justice, and cultural competency.
- Stay current on best practices in IPV intervention, crisis response, and victim services.
YOU MUST HAVE:
- Bachelor’s degree in social work, criminal justice, psychology, human services, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
- At least 2 years of experience working directly with victims of domestic violence or related populations.
- Strong understanding of intimate partner violence dynamics, trauma-informed care, and risk assessment strategies (knowledge of LAP and DVHRT models preferred).
- Excellent crisis intervention, advocacy, and safety planning skills.
- Ability to work collaboratively across systems (law enforcement, prosecution, probation, and community agencies).
- Strong organizational skills, with the ability to manage a demanding caseload and maintain detailed records.
- Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to professional ethics.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
- Ability to travel between Yonkers and Mount Vernon as required (reliable transportation needed).
- Bilingual (English/Spanish) strongly preferred.
ORGANIZATIONAL OVERVIEW: At MSP, we strongly believe that integrating a world-changing approach into all areas of our work is essential to ending domestic violence and human trafficking. Our dynamic and diverse team of compassionate advocates is working to create a world in which every individual has the basic human right to be free from gender-based violence and to engage in relationships that embrace the principles of respect, equality, and safety.
MSP is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, responding to domestic violence and human trafficking in Westchester County, New York, by providing multi-lingual, trauma-informed legal and supportive services. We bolster our work with clients by engaging in extensive outreach and community education, strengthening the systemic response to all forms of gender-based violence.
GREAT BENEFITS AND PTO PACKAGE: MSP employees enjoy a generous health benefits package that includes dental and vision care. Our Financial Savings Plain reflects a commitment to the future well-being of our employees. PTO and self-care are important to us, and we offer a PTO plan that includes vacation, sick time, and personal days.
SALARY: $58,000
Application Instructions: No Phone Calls Please. Please submit a cover letter, resume, and salary requirements to Winnifred Wilson at wwilson@mspny.org.
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MSP values you, your growth and your contributions. My Sisters’ Place believes that an effective, broad-based movement for social transformation must be rooted in anti-oppression principles as we work towards a more just and equitable society. People of color, people with disabilities, and members of the LGBTQIA+ Community are encouraged to apply. MSP values you, your growth and your contributions. MSP policy prohibits discrimination due to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, and national origin in employment and delivery of services.