Positions Title: RISE Plus Community Advocate
Program/Department: RISE Plus
Reports to: RISE Plus Program Manager
Status: Full-time, Exempt
Salary: $66,000 – $70,000
About the Role
We are searching for a Community Advocate to join our RISE Plus Program team. As a RISE Plus Community Advocate, you will report to the RISE Plus Program Manager and play a vital role in providing intensive case management services to clients in the RISE Plus Transitional Housing and Rapid Rehousing Program. This role involves working with clients residing in scattered-site units in the District of Columbia.
In this role, you will be at the forefront of direct support and intervention, working to empower clients on their journey towards safety, stability, and independence. Central to your responsibilities is the delivery of in-person case management sessions, ensuring that clients are supported with the utmost care and empathy. Meeting with clients at least twice a month, you will collaborate closely with them to create detailed service plans and monthly financial budgets. By conducting comprehensive assessments, you will identify the unique strengths and needs of each individual or family and make appropriate referrals to address social, environmental, medical, and emotional challenges.
This is a community-based hybrid position. The employee is expected to be in the office 1-2 times per week, with the majority of their time spent traveling within the community to meet with clients.
About My Sister’s Place
My Sister’s Place is a community of staff, volunteers, and advocates committed to eradicating domestic violence. As DC’s oldest domestic violence shelter, we have served as a cornerstone of the district’s response to this pressing public health issue since 1979. MSP is unique in offering a continuum of care from emergency shelter through transitional-to-permanent housing. Our experienced team of case managers and residential counselors provide clinical counseling, case management, and comprehensive services to empower survivors to recover and thrive. MSP also provides training, case consultation, and advocacy to engage communities to prevent violence and abuse.
What You’ll Be Doing
Case Management
o Twice-monthly in-person visits with clients, supplemented by additional interactions via email, text, or phone as needed.
o Intensive case management services to individuals and families affected by domestic violence and other crimes
o Create detailed service plans, safety plans, and financial budgets with each client and review monthly.
o Establish and enhance relationships with partners and stakeholders including landlords.
o Identify strengths and needs of individuals and families as they relate to the overall plan of intervention.
o Make appropriate referrals to address social, environmental, medical, and emotional challenges.
o Collaborate with area service providers in addressing individual client needs.
o Support in crisis situations and intervene to resolve immediate problems.
o Provide clients assistance in seeking housing, mental health, employment, financial assistance, and other needed services;
Data and Reporting
o Maintain up-to-date records by documenting case activity, including electronic case management data entry, within 48 hours of each interaction.
o Prepare a variety of reports, including monthly reports to the Program Manager.
o Attend and help facilitate workshops on financial intelligence, housing opportunities, and other applicable topics, as needed.
o Assist with training and supervision of volunteers as needed.
Qualifications
• Two or more years of case management experience
• Two or more years’ experience working with individuals who have experienced trauma
• Comprehensive knowledge of the dynamics of human behavior
• In-depth understanding of the dynamics of domestic violence
• Working knowledge of DC social services resources and processes
• Experience with HMIS (Homeless Management Information System) and CAHP (Coordinated Assessment and Housing Placement) System.
•Reliable transportation and a valid driver’s license required, as this role involves regular travel within the community to meet with clients.
• Bonus points if you have a valid DC social work license.
• Bonus points if you are bilingual in English/Spanish
What We’re Looking For
At MSP, we are committed to our core values, which guide our every action and decision. We’re hiring someone who shares our dedication to these values and embodies them in their work:
Demonstrate Professionalism, Integrity, and Excellence: You approach your role with the highest level of professionalism and ethical conduct. You should consistently uphold integrity, demonstrate excellence in your work, and adhere to the highest standards of professionalism.
Support Wellness and Self-care: You understand the importance of self-care and wellness, both for yourself and for the clients we serve. You should promote and model self-care practices and encourage clients to prioritize their well-being.
Provide Person-centered and Trauma-informed Services: We value a person-centered and trauma-informed approach to service delivery. The right candidate should be skilled in empathetic and client-focused interactions, recognizing the unique needs and experiences of each individual.
Foster an Environment of Trust, Transparency, and Respect: Building trust and maintaining transparency and respect in all interactions is paramount to our organization. We are looking for someone who can create a safe and respectful environment for clients and colleagues alike.
Deliver Services Intentionally and Passionately: We seek a candidate who is passionate about helping others and who approaches their role with intentionality. You should be dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the lives of our clients.
My Sister’s Place is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type based upon race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.