Direct Service Advocate

New Beginnings is committed to ending domestic and sexual violence through service provision to victim/survivors, community education, and prevention work focused on breaking the generational cycle of violence. 

Job Summary: The Direct Service Advocate provides a full range of services to those whose lives have been affected by domestic and sexual violence in Belknap County, including crisis intervention and support, ongoing case management, and referrals to community resources. Primary job functions will be performed at New Beginnings’ office in Laconia, NH. The employee must have access to reliable transportation to and from work. Occasional travel may be required throughout New Hampshire as necessary. 

Essential Functions: 

• Provide advocacy, domestic violence education, conflict resolution, and emotional support to shelter guests and non-resident clients 
• Assist survivors in navigating civil and criminal legal systems and social services 
• Support survivors in developing and maintaining safety plans 
• Assess survivors for appropriate services and referrals 
• Provide hotline coverage according to agency’s monthly schedule as needed 
• Offer immediate assistance on a walk-in and phone-in basis 
• Remain knowledgeable of agency guidelines and procedures so independent decisions may be made in daily and emergency situations 
• Attend regular internal and external meetings as assigned 
• Establish and maintain interpersonal relationships establishing tact, integrity, and good judgment 
• Participate in system data collection in an accurate, complete, and timely manner 

Preferred Skills: 

• Relevant college degree or course work 
• Effective communication skills and desire to work on the topics of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and elder abuse 
• Successfully complete forty (40) hours of agency training 
• Clear understanding of 173C and confidentiality laws 
• Embraces agency’s mission, philosophical statement, and use of the empowerment model 
• Strong organizational and time management skills with impeccable attention to detail 
• Willingness to help co-workers on special projects 
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with staff, board, volunteers 
• Presentation development and delivery a must along with corresponding organizational abilities. Proficient computer skills including word, excel, email. Comfort communicating with diverse populations individually, presenting to large groups 

Physical Demands: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

The employee is required to sit frequently for long periods either at a computer workstation or at meetings. The employee may be required to climb two flights of stairs to access office and meeting space. 

Disclaimer: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work expected of this position. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time as needed.