- Administer the Gender-Based Violence Training and Volunteer Program in accordance with agency policies and applicable ICADV, ICDVP, ICASA, IDHS, grant, and accreditation requirements.
- Ensure domestic violence and sexual assault trainings comply with applicable standards regarding curriculum, instructor qualifications, participant documentation, continuing education, and record retention.
- Develop, implement, and maintain the Gender-Based Violence Training Manual, Volunteer Program Manual, and related policies, procedures, forms, and quality assurance tools.
- Coordinate the annual training calendar and monitor required staff, volunteer, intern, presenter, certification, and continuing education requirements.
- Maintain current knowledge of applicable laws, standards, and best practices while updating training materials, policies, procedures, and program documentation as needed.
- Maintain accurate training, volunteer, certification, and program records in accordance with agency policy and funding requirements.
- Assist with audits, accreditation activities, grant applications, reporting, monitoring visits, and continuous quality improvement initiatives.
- Coordinate and facilitate ICDVP-approved Domestic Violence 40-Hour Trainings, ICASA-approved Sexual Assault 40-Hour Trainings, Combined Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Trainings, and other agency-approved educational programs.
- Coordinate all aspects of agency training programs, including scheduling, registration, instructors, facilities, participant materials, continuing education documentation, and evaluations.
- Develop, coordinate, and deliver professional education and technical assistance for healthcare providers, educators, law enforcement, court personnel, faith communities, social service agencies, businesses, and other community partners.
- Recruit, mentor, and support internal and guest presenters to promote high-quality, evidence-informed instruction.
- Evaluate training effectiveness through participant feedback, observation, and outcome measures.
- Represent AAFS at trainings, conferences, professional meetings, outreach activities, and community events.
- Develop, implement, administer, and continuously improve the agency's volunteer program.
- Recruit, screen, onboard, train, assign, schedule, supervise, evaluate, recognize, and retain volunteers.
- Coordinate volunteers supporting hotline services, hospital advocacy, outreach, prevention education, administrative projects, special events, and other agency activities.
- Maintain volunteer records, ensure compliance with required training and agency policies, and promote volunteer engagement through coaching, recognition, leadership development, and ongoing education.
- Collaborate with department leadership to identify volunteer opportunities that enhance agency services.
- Serve as a trained back-up advocate for the agency's 24-hour hotline and hospital-based sexual assault medical advocacy program as operational needs require.
- Provide trauma-informed crisis intervention, emotional support, advocacy, safety planning, information, referrals, and resource coordination.
- Maintain timely, accurate, and confidential documentation in accordance with agency policies and applicable standards.
- Collaborate with department leadership and staff to support program development, volunteer engagement, strategic initiatives, and agency training needs.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
- Complete all required agency onboarding and orientation requirements.
- Obtain Illinois Certified Domestic Violence Professional (ICDVP) certification within one year of hire and maintain certification throughout employment.
- Complete an ICASA-approved Sexual Assault 40-Hour Training prior to providing sexual assault services and maintain required continuing education.
- Participate in required supervision, staff meetings, trainings, and professional development.
- Maintain required certifications and continuing education.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
- Bachelor’s degree in social work, Human Services, Education, Psychology, Criminal Justice, Public Administration, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Candidates without a bachelor’s degree may qualify with a high school diploma or equivalent and at least five (5) years of relevant experience in domestic violence services, behavioral intervention, counseling, criminal justice, social service, or group facilitation.
- Minimum of two years of experience in domestic violence, sexual assault, volunteer management, training, adult education, or related gender-based violence services.
- Experience developing, coordinating, and delivering professional training, workshops, or educational presentations for diverse audiences.
- Demonstrated public speaking, facilitation, and group presentation skills, with the ability to engage adult learners and effectively communicate complex or sensitive topics.
- Strong organizational, project management, written, and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to recruit, supervise, coach, and support volunteers and training presenters.
- Commitment to trauma-informed, survivor-centered, and culturally responsive services.
- Experience coordinating volunteer programs.
- Experience developing training curriculum.
- Experience facilitating ICADV/ICDVP and/or ICASA-approved trainings.
- Completion of an ICDVP-approved Domestic Violence 40-Hour Training, an ICASA-approved Sexual Assault 40-Hour Training, or an approved Combined Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Training (60 hours or greater).
- Current Illinois Certified Domestic Violence Professional (ICDVP) certification.
- Bilingual Arabic and English preferred; additional language proficiency is a plus.
- Knowledge of domestic violence, sexual assault, trauma-informed care, adult learning principles, and volunteer management.
- Knowledge of applicable Illinois laws, confidentiality requirements, and best practices related to gender-based violence services.
- Ability to organize and manage multiple projects and deadlines.
- Excellent interpersonal, facilitation, presentation, and public speaking skills.
- Strong written communication, documentation, and organizational abilities.
- Ability to establish collaborative relationships with community partners, presenters, volunteers, and multidisciplinary professionals.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and agency data management systems.
- Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, reach, and use standard office equipment throughout the workday.
- Ability to lift and transport training materials and supplies weighing up to 25 pounds.
- Ability to communicate effectively in individual, group, classroom, and community settings.
- Ability to travel independently throughout the agency's service area.
- Valid driver's license, reliable transportation, and proof of automobile insurance.
- Successful completion of required background checks.
- Ability to travel locally throughout the service area (mileage reimbursement provided).
- Ability to travel occasionally, including overnight travel, to attend required meetings, conferences, and trainings, including those held in Springfield, Illinois (mileage and M&IE reimbursement provided).
- Ability to work occasional evenings and weekends to accommodate trainings, volunteer activities, community events, hotline coverage, and hospital response.
Position Title: Gender-Based Violence Training and Volunteer Coordinator Department: Gender-Based Violence Reports To: Supervisor of Gender-Based Violence Employment Type: Full-Time | non-exempt [&hel...
Position Title: Partner Abuse Intervention Program (PAIP) Coordinator Department: Gender-Based Violence Program Reports To: Associate Director of Gender-Based Violence Employment Type: Part...
- Serve as the primary court-based advocate for survivors seeking Orders of Protection
- Provide crisis intervention, emotional support, and safety planning before, during, and after court
- Explain survivor rights and legal remedies under the Illinois Domestic Violence Act (IDVA)
- Assist with preparation and completion of Emergency, Interim, and Plenary Orders of Protection
- Prepare survivors for hearings, including court procedures and expectations
- Accompany survivors to court hearings and State’s Attorney meetings when appropriate
- Provide Crime Victim Compensation information and application assistance
- Coordinate with court personnel, attorneys, law enforcement, and interpreters
- Refer to legal services for concerns related to divorce, child custody, immigration, etc.
- Advocate for meaningful language access and culturally responsive services
- Maintain current knowledge of relevant laws, court procedures, and legal resources
- Conduct ongoing needs and safety assessments
- Develop individualized, survivor-centered service plans
- Provide crisis intervention, supportive counseling, and advocacy
- Develop and update safety plans addressing home, work, court, and technology safety
- Assist with access to shelter, emergency housing, and long-term housing stability
- Coordinate transportation assistance as available
- Provide referrals to legal, healthcare, counseling, and social services
- Collaborate with internal AAFS programs for coordinated service delivery
- Maintain consistent follow-up to support long-term stability
- Respect survivor autonomy and support informed decision-making
- Collaborate with courts, law enforcement, healthcare, and community providers
- Promote trauma-informed, culturally responsive practices
- Identify and address systemic barriers impacting survivors
- Participate in multidisciplinary and coordinated community response efforts
- Advocate for language access and equitable service delivery
- Represent AAFS at community meetings, outreach events, and court-based initiatives
- Conduct outreach to increase awareness of VAWA services and survivor rights
- Participating in Domestic Violence Awareness Month and community education efforts
- Support training for community partners and professionals related to VAWA services
- Build relationships with organizations serving underserved communities
- Complete timely, accurate documentation in accordance with funder and agency requirements
- Enter data into InfoNet and agency systems while maintaining confidentiality
- Maintain statistics for reporting, evaluation, and grant compliance
- Protect confidentiality in accordance with VAWA and Illinois laws
- Maintain files consistent with privilege and confidentiality requirements
- Participate in audits, file reviews, and quality assurance processes
- Complete required reports, including time and effort documentation
- Required 40-hour Domestic Violence Training prior to providing direct services
- Obtain and maintain Illinois Certified Domestic Violence Professional (ICDVP) credential within established time frame
- Participate in supervision, staff meetings, and case consultation
- Maintain ongoing professional development
- Assist with hotline coverage, hospital response, or program needs assigned
- Support outreach events and agency initiatives
- Perform other duties as assigned
- Bachelor’s degree in social work, Psychology, Criminal Justice, Human Services, or related field preferred
- Experience in domestic violence advocacy, court advocacy, or human services preferred
- Experience working with diverse and underserved populations preferred
- Completion of ICDVP-approved 40-hour Domestic Violence Training within 30 days of hire
- Completion of ICASA-approved Sexual Assault Training or 60-hour (or greater) combined DV/SA training within agency established period.
- ICDVP certification within 2 years
- Valid driver’s license, reliable transportation, and proof of insurance
- Successful completion of background check
- Ability to travel locally (mileage reimbursement provided)
- Bilingual Arabic/English preferred
- Ability to travel occasionally, including overnight travel for required meetings, conferences, and trainings, including those held in Springfield, Illinois. (mileage/M&IE reimbursement provided)
- Bilingual Arabic/English preferred
- Knowledge of domestic violence dynamics and trauma-informed care
- Understanding of Illinois Domestic Violence Act and court processes (or ability to learn)
- Strong interpersonal and crisis intervention skills
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional boundaries
- Strong documentation, time management, and organizational skills
- Ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary partners
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and data systems (InfoNet preferred)
- Comply with Illinois confidentiality and privilege laws, including protections under 750 ILCS 60/227-227.1 and 735 ILCS 5/8-802.1
- Adhere to VAWA confidentiality requirements, including informed consent and data privacy protections
- Serve as a mandated reporter in accordance with Illinois law
- Ability to sit, stand, walk, bend, and reach throughout the workday
- Ability to communicate effectively in multiple settings
- Ability to operate standard office equipment
- Ability to lift 20 pounds
- Ability to travel independently within the service area
- This position is contingent upon successful completion of required background checks.
- Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.
Position Title: Bilingual (Arabic Speaking) Domestic Violence Court Advocate – VAWA STOP Program Department: Gender-Based Violence Program Reports To: Supervisor of Gender-Based Violence E...
Domestic Violence Advocate
Department: Domestic Violence Services Reports To: Program Manager / Director of Programs Status: Full-Time | Non-Exempt Location: Worth, IllinoisPosition Summary
Arab American Family Services (AAFS) is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Domestic Violence Advocate to provide comprehensive, trauma-informed support to survivors of domestic violence. This role is critical in ensuring clients receive crisis intervention, safety planning, and access to essential services in a culturally responsive and empowering environment. The ideal candidate is an empathetic communicator with strong advocacy skills who can effectively support individuals in crisis while maintaining professional boundaries, confidentiality, and compliance with program standards.Compensation & Benefits
Hourly Rate: $21.00 – $25.00 per hour (commensurate with experience) Benefits May Include:- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off (PTO) and holidays
- Professional development and training opportunities
- Primarily weekday business hours
- Participation in crisis hotline rotation required
- Occasional evenings, weekends, and overnight travel may be required
Key Responsibilities
Client Advocacy & Support (Primary Duties)
- Provide crisis intervention, safety planning, and emotional support to survivors of domestic violence
- Conduct intake assessments and develop individualized service plans based on client needs and goals
- Connect clients to resources including housing, legal assistance, medical care, counseling, and financial support
- Accompany clients to court hearings, law enforcement meetings, and other service appointments as needed
- Educate clients on their rights, options, and available resources to support informed decision-making
- Maintain accurate, confidential case documentation in compliance with organizational and legal standards
Collaboration & Community Engagement
- Coordinate with community partners, shelters, and service providers to strengthen client support networks
- Participate in outreach, education, and prevention activities within the community
- Promote program services and increase awareness of domestic violence resources
Program Compliance & Development
- Adhere to trauma-informed and client-centered service practices
- Participate in ongoing training and professional development
- Maintain familiarity with local laws, regulations, and best practices in domestic violence advocacy
- Opportunity to obtain ICDVP (Illinois Certified Domestic Violence Professional) certification within two years
Success in This Role
- Clients receive timely, compassionate, and effective support services
- Accurate and compliant documentation of all client interactions and services
- Strong collaboration with internal teams and external partners
- Positive client outcomes related to safety, stability, and empowerment
- Active participation in outreach and community education efforts
Qualifications
Education & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in social work, Psychology, Criminal Justice, or a related field preferred (or equivalent experience)
- Experience in domestic violence advocacy, crisis intervention, or related human services field preferred
Skills & Competencies
- Strong understanding of trauma-informed, survivor-centered care
- Excellent communication, active listening, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to manage sensitive situations with empathy, professionalism, and confidentiality
- Strong organizational and documentation skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
- Knowledge of local resources and domestic violence-related legal systems is a plus
- Proficiency in electronic case management systems preferred
- Cultural competency and experience working with diverse communities
Additional Requirements
- 40-hour Domestic Violence Certification (Illinois) preferred
- Fluency in Arabic is required; Spanish is a plus
- Ability to travel for agency-related events as needed
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
- Primarily office-based with some community-based work
- Ability to travel locally for client support and outreach activities
- Ability to sit, stand, and use a computer for extended periods
Why Join AAFS?
At AAFS, we are dedicated to strengthening Arab American families and immigrant communities through culturally responsive and inclusive services. Joining our team means making a direct impact in the lives of survivors while working in a supportive, mission-driven environment. We value collaboration, compassion, and community engagement, and we are committed to fostering a workplace where staff feel empowered and supported.Equal Opportunity Employer
Arab American Family Services is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees regardless of race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or veteran status.Reasonable Accommodations
Arab American Family Services is committed to ensuring equal access and opportunity for individuals with disabilities. In accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), reasonable accommodations may be provided throughout the hiring process and employment. Applicants requiring accommodation are encouraged to inform us during the application process.Job Features
| Job Category | Domestic Violence Advocate |
Domestic Violence Advocate Department: Domestic Violence Services Reports To: Program Manager / Director of Programs Status: Full-Time | Non-Exempt Location: Worth, Illinois […]
