Chicago Children's Advocacy Center
Bilingual Family Advocate - Forensic Interviewer
Chicago Children's Advocacy Center, Chicago, Illinois, United States, 60608
Job Description
Job Description
ChicagoCAC employees are expected to perform their job duties and act in a manner consistent with the Core Values of the organization.
Responsibility Summary The Bilingual Family Advocate–Forensic Interviewer is assigned to each case as either an Advocate or a Forensic Interviewer, providing the appropriate services to the family as detailed below. In both roles, the person will deliver trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and well-coordinated care.
When serving as a Family Advocate, the employee provides advocacy, crisis intervention, and short-term case management services to child victims of sexual abuse (and other types of violence) and their families who are referred to the Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center. conducts a thorough assessment of the child and the non-offending caregiver’s mental health and social functioning and makes any referrals necessary to meet identified needs. The Family Advocate provides the child and family with education about the investigative process, about their rights, about trauma and the impact of trauma on children and families, and about any other related needs. The Family Advocate acts as a liaison for the family with the MDT and also acts as a voice for the family with the team or supports and encourages the family to speak on their own behalf with the team. The Family Advocate supports a family throughout a child sexual abuse investigation, intake through disposition.
When serving as a Forensic Interviewer, the employee conducts developmentally appropriate, legally defensible forensic interviews of victims of child sexual abuse and assault, as well as other crimes and exposure to violence.
DEI&AB Culture Commitment:
The Bilingual Family Advocate - Forensic Interviewer is responsible for creating an inclusive environment that demonstrates equity, inclusion, accessibility, and belonging to our clients, ChicagoCAC employees, and partners. The position also assists in ChicagoCAC’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility and Belonging (DEIAB) initiatives.
Primary Responsibilities: Review case prior to family arriving at the center to identify any concerns or needs that the family may have prior to arrival and
coordinate/communicate
with MDT and other ChicagoCAC program areas to ensure that the families’ needs are met during the visit to the center.
Review the case prior to family arriving to determine any specific case issues that may need to be addressed with the family and/or the MDT.
Work collaboratively with ChicagoCAC’s multidisciplinary team members.
Greet child and family upon arrival at the ChicagoCAC and help prepare them for the forensic interview and investigation by explaining the process, showing them the interview room, explaining their rights, and providing information regarding the MDT members and any other steps involved with explaining the process.
Complete the Family Needs Screening or Family Advocacy Screening Form with the non-offending caregiver that includes a social needs screening of the family and child and a mental health screening of the child and non-offending caregiver.
After completing the screening, self-triage the case in order to prioritize the need for mental health services for the child. Triage complex cases with the advocacy manager/supervisor before the family leaves the center.
When a child or a non-offending caregiver present with a significant safety concerns or mental health risks, consult with the advocacy manager/supervisor to discuss the Crisis Assessment and plan for intervention (SASS, Crisis Care Plan, etc) with the non-offending caregiver and the child.
Provide information to the non-offending caregiver regarding trauma and the impact of trauma on children and families, as well as information regarding counseling and the benefits of counseling for children who have experienced sexual abuse and other forms of trauma. Aasess their willingness and readiness to participate in and/or ensure his or her child participates in mental health services.
Provide linkage for the family to mental health services through non-PATHH referrals or by facilitating the child’s placement on the centralized wait list.
Serve as families’ liaison and representative to the multidisciplinary investigating team including during the families’ visit to the center in MDT meetings and after the visit.
Provide information to families regarding the Illinois Attorney General’s Violent Crime Victims Compensation Program.
Follow up with families after they visit the center to facilitate referrals, answer questions, convey information, and provide on-going case management.
Remain in regular and consistent contact with the family during child sexual abuse investigations, including off-site visits if necessary.
Attend and participate in regularly scheduled team meetings and case reviews.
Complete documentation of services in an accurate and timely manner according to program policies, practices, and supervisory guidance.
Attend and participate in staff development trainings.
Actively participate in on-going Advocacy Program development.
As assigned, complete intensive advocacy on cases that present with significant risk factors, complex challenges in consultation with Advocacy
manager/supervisor.
In addition to working with children, Advocates may at times offer services to adults with disabilities who receive services from the center.
Provide interpretation and translation as requested for partner agencies except for translation of legal documents (e.g., safety plans and written statements) or forensic interviews.
Participate in local networking and training opportunities.
Conduct developmentally appropriate and legally defensible forensic interviews of children and adolescents alleging sexual and/or physical abuse or other victims of crime utilizing approved interviewing protocol.
Attend and participate in supervision, peer review, and other professional development activities, such as webinars, education calls and literature review, that are relevant to forensic interviewing.
After-hours/weekend on-call rotation for the Advocacy and Investigation department; approximately 12 weeks annually.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Discretion The Family Advocate–Forensic Interviewer acts with a mid-level range of discretion and independent decision-making. The Family Advocate–Forensic Interviewer is responsible for providing interviewing and advocacy services and case management at ChicagoCAC, and is responsible for representing these services in team meetings and case reviews.
Supervisory Responsibilities The Family Advocate–Forensic Interviewer is responsible for occasional supervision of volunteers, students, and interns.
Relationships The Family Advocate–Forensic Interviewer works closely with the Director of Advocacy and Forensic Interviewing, Forensic Interviewer Supervisor, Advocacy Supervisor, other Family Advocates, Forensic Interviewers, Intake Coordinators, Child Life Specialists, and staff from the partner agencies.
Qualifications Required qualifications: Minimum education requirement of MA/MSW. At least two years' experience working in some capacity with children and one year's experience in a professional social services role. Strong team building, problem solving, organizational, and oral communication skills are necessary. Demonstrated knowledge of multiple cultures and the cultural impact on the delivery of services a must. Training or experience in working with trauma victims, people with disabilities, and people with mental health disorders preferred. Knowledge of the Cook County courts, Chicago area social service system, and victim’s rights preferred.
Preferred additional qualifications: Previous training in one or more nationally recognized, evidence based forensic interview models/protocols (NCAC, NICHD, ChildFirst, APSAC, Cornerhouse) required or must complete 40 hours of nationally recognized forensic interview training prior to conducting interviews. Five years’ experience working with children and adolescents is desirable. Willingness to interact with a trained support dog preferred.
Forensic Interviewers will undergo a training period at ChicagoCAC that will consist of literature review, observation, and mock interviews. The training period will vary based on individual competency and previous experience. The Chief Program Officer of Advocacy & Investigations and Forensic Interviewer Supervisor will determine when the training period is completed and the interviewer is deemed as equipped to conduct interviews on his/her own.
In addition to making a significant impact on children’s and families’ lives, ChicagoCAC offers amazing benefits for our staff, which include: BCBS HMO
and PPO
healthcare coverage options with an opportunity to add family members to plans. Free life insurance at 2x your salary up to a maximum of $200,000. Additional pay of 10% of your salary up to $7,500 per year (available after 6 months of employment) to use towards a menu of benefits such as: additional health benefits, dental, vision, long-term disability short-term disability, 403b plan, a Roth option, legal coverage, dependent care, flexible spending, and taxable spending. Taxable spending may be used for health club membership, fitness activities, tuition reimbursement, student loan repayment, among other options. Paid Time Off (“PTO”): PTO starts accruing the first day of employment and accrues at a rate of 35 days in a 12-month period. PTO days are used for all days off, including holidays and sick time so you have maximum flexibility in the use of your PTO. Timing of vacations may be dependent on client needs, as that’s our first priority. PTO goes up to 40 days after 5 years. Additional
PTO for FMLA-related reasons up to 20 days. A remote work policy that provides flexibility in work hours so long as operational needs are met. Regular expert training on evidence-based therapy modalities, which includes being able to earn Continuing Education Units. A casual dress code. Enjoy afternoon milk and cookies every Friday!
If you share our passion for providing hope and healing to children and families who have experienced abuse and trauma, and possess the qualifications we’re looking for, please submit an application! ChicagoCAC’s Compensation Philosophy: We believe in fair compensation for your work. Our salary scale is comparable to salaries you would find in Chicago, IL. We believe our compensation program is designed to support, reinforce, and align our values, business strategy, and operational & financial needs with a goal of growth and profitability.
Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: ChicagoCAC is an Equal Opportunity Employer: BIPOC, persons with disabilities, and LGBTQIA+ people are strongly encouraged to apply.
We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, reproductive health decisions, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, genetic information, political views or activity, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact our People & Culture Department at (312) 492-3700.
Salary commensurate with experience.
Job Description
ChicagoCAC employees are expected to perform their job duties and act in a manner consistent with the Core Values of the organization.
Responsibility Summary The Bilingual Family Advocate–Forensic Interviewer is assigned to each case as either an Advocate or a Forensic Interviewer, providing the appropriate services to the family as detailed below. In both roles, the person will deliver trauma-informed, culturally sensitive, and well-coordinated care.
When serving as a Family Advocate, the employee provides advocacy, crisis intervention, and short-term case management services to child victims of sexual abuse (and other types of violence) and their families who are referred to the Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center. conducts a thorough assessment of the child and the non-offending caregiver’s mental health and social functioning and makes any referrals necessary to meet identified needs. The Family Advocate provides the child and family with education about the investigative process, about their rights, about trauma and the impact of trauma on children and families, and about any other related needs. The Family Advocate acts as a liaison for the family with the MDT and also acts as a voice for the family with the team or supports and encourages the family to speak on their own behalf with the team. The Family Advocate supports a family throughout a child sexual abuse investigation, intake through disposition.
When serving as a Forensic Interviewer, the employee conducts developmentally appropriate, legally defensible forensic interviews of victims of child sexual abuse and assault, as well as other crimes and exposure to violence.
DEI&AB Culture Commitment:
The Bilingual Family Advocate - Forensic Interviewer is responsible for creating an inclusive environment that demonstrates equity, inclusion, accessibility, and belonging to our clients, ChicagoCAC employees, and partners. The position also assists in ChicagoCAC’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Accessibility and Belonging (DEIAB) initiatives.
Primary Responsibilities: Review case prior to family arriving at the center to identify any concerns or needs that the family may have prior to arrival and
coordinate/communicate
with MDT and other ChicagoCAC program areas to ensure that the families’ needs are met during the visit to the center.
Review the case prior to family arriving to determine any specific case issues that may need to be addressed with the family and/or the MDT.
Work collaboratively with ChicagoCAC’s multidisciplinary team members.
Greet child and family upon arrival at the ChicagoCAC and help prepare them for the forensic interview and investigation by explaining the process, showing them the interview room, explaining their rights, and providing information regarding the MDT members and any other steps involved with explaining the process.
Complete the Family Needs Screening or Family Advocacy Screening Form with the non-offending caregiver that includes a social needs screening of the family and child and a mental health screening of the child and non-offending caregiver.
After completing the screening, self-triage the case in order to prioritize the need for mental health services for the child. Triage complex cases with the advocacy manager/supervisor before the family leaves the center.
When a child or a non-offending caregiver present with a significant safety concerns or mental health risks, consult with the advocacy manager/supervisor to discuss the Crisis Assessment and plan for intervention (SASS, Crisis Care Plan, etc) with the non-offending caregiver and the child.
Provide information to the non-offending caregiver regarding trauma and the impact of trauma on children and families, as well as information regarding counseling and the benefits of counseling for children who have experienced sexual abuse and other forms of trauma. Aasess their willingness and readiness to participate in and/or ensure his or her child participates in mental health services.
Provide linkage for the family to mental health services through non-PATHH referrals or by facilitating the child’s placement on the centralized wait list.
Serve as families’ liaison and representative to the multidisciplinary investigating team including during the families’ visit to the center in MDT meetings and after the visit.
Provide information to families regarding the Illinois Attorney General’s Violent Crime Victims Compensation Program.
Follow up with families after they visit the center to facilitate referrals, answer questions, convey information, and provide on-going case management.
Remain in regular and consistent contact with the family during child sexual abuse investigations, including off-site visits if necessary.
Attend and participate in regularly scheduled team meetings and case reviews.
Complete documentation of services in an accurate and timely manner according to program policies, practices, and supervisory guidance.
Attend and participate in staff development trainings.
Actively participate in on-going Advocacy Program development.
As assigned, complete intensive advocacy on cases that present with significant risk factors, complex challenges in consultation with Advocacy
manager/supervisor.
In addition to working with children, Advocates may at times offer services to adults with disabilities who receive services from the center.
Provide interpretation and translation as requested for partner agencies except for translation of legal documents (e.g., safety plans and written statements) or forensic interviews.
Participate in local networking and training opportunities.
Conduct developmentally appropriate and legally defensible forensic interviews of children and adolescents alleging sexual and/or physical abuse or other victims of crime utilizing approved interviewing protocol.
Attend and participate in supervision, peer review, and other professional development activities, such as webinars, education calls and literature review, that are relevant to forensic interviewing.
After-hours/weekend on-call rotation for the Advocacy and Investigation department; approximately 12 weeks annually.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Discretion The Family Advocate–Forensic Interviewer acts with a mid-level range of discretion and independent decision-making. The Family Advocate–Forensic Interviewer is responsible for providing interviewing and advocacy services and case management at ChicagoCAC, and is responsible for representing these services in team meetings and case reviews.
Supervisory Responsibilities The Family Advocate–Forensic Interviewer is responsible for occasional supervision of volunteers, students, and interns.
Relationships The Family Advocate–Forensic Interviewer works closely with the Director of Advocacy and Forensic Interviewing, Forensic Interviewer Supervisor, Advocacy Supervisor, other Family Advocates, Forensic Interviewers, Intake Coordinators, Child Life Specialists, and staff from the partner agencies.
Qualifications Required qualifications: Minimum education requirement of MA/MSW. At least two years' experience working in some capacity with children and one year's experience in a professional social services role. Strong team building, problem solving, organizational, and oral communication skills are necessary. Demonstrated knowledge of multiple cultures and the cultural impact on the delivery of services a must. Training or experience in working with trauma victims, people with disabilities, and people with mental health disorders preferred. Knowledge of the Cook County courts, Chicago area social service system, and victim’s rights preferred.
Preferred additional qualifications: Previous training in one or more nationally recognized, evidence based forensic interview models/protocols (NCAC, NICHD, ChildFirst, APSAC, Cornerhouse) required or must complete 40 hours of nationally recognized forensic interview training prior to conducting interviews. Five years’ experience working with children and adolescents is desirable. Willingness to interact with a trained support dog preferred.
Forensic Interviewers will undergo a training period at ChicagoCAC that will consist of literature review, observation, and mock interviews. The training period will vary based on individual competency and previous experience. The Chief Program Officer of Advocacy & Investigations and Forensic Interviewer Supervisor will determine when the training period is completed and the interviewer is deemed as equipped to conduct interviews on his/her own.
In addition to making a significant impact on children’s and families’ lives, ChicagoCAC offers amazing benefits for our staff, which include: BCBS HMO
and PPO
healthcare coverage options with an opportunity to add family members to plans. Free life insurance at 2x your salary up to a maximum of $200,000. Additional pay of 10% of your salary up to $7,500 per year (available after 6 months of employment) to use towards a menu of benefits such as: additional health benefits, dental, vision, long-term disability short-term disability, 403b plan, a Roth option, legal coverage, dependent care, flexible spending, and taxable spending. Taxable spending may be used for health club membership, fitness activities, tuition reimbursement, student loan repayment, among other options. Paid Time Off (“PTO”): PTO starts accruing the first day of employment and accrues at a rate of 35 days in a 12-month period. PTO days are used for all days off, including holidays and sick time so you have maximum flexibility in the use of your PTO. Timing of vacations may be dependent on client needs, as that’s our first priority. PTO goes up to 40 days after 5 years. Additional
PTO for FMLA-related reasons up to 20 days. A remote work policy that provides flexibility in work hours so long as operational needs are met. Regular expert training on evidence-based therapy modalities, which includes being able to earn Continuing Education Units. A casual dress code. Enjoy afternoon milk and cookies every Friday!
If you share our passion for providing hope and healing to children and families who have experienced abuse and trauma, and possess the qualifications we’re looking for, please submit an application! ChicagoCAC’s Compensation Philosophy: We believe in fair compensation for your work. Our salary scale is comparable to salaries you would find in Chicago, IL. We believe our compensation program is designed to support, reinforce, and align our values, business strategy, and operational & financial needs with a goal of growth and profitability.
Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: ChicagoCAC is an Equal Opportunity Employer: BIPOC, persons with disabilities, and LGBTQIA+ people are strongly encouraged to apply.
We are proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, reproductive health decisions, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, genetic information, political views or activity, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.
If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact our People & Culture Department at (312) 492-3700.
Salary commensurate with experience.