Community Advocacy Specialist

The Community Advocacy Specialist provides crisis intervention, advocacy, information, and referrals to

residents of the City of Boston experiencing violence in their homes, community, and/or schools, with

special concentration in the neighborhoods of Dorchester, Roxbury, and Mattapan. Locations include

local district courts, health centers, and community centers, as well as the agency’s main office and

residential programs.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS / RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide crisis intervention, danger assessment, safety planning, emotional support, and advocacy for residents living in the City of Boston.
• Provide advocacy and assistance for survivors of domestic violence seeking restraining orders at local district courts in Boston.
• Deliver culturally competent, trauma-informed services at local community-based health centers.
• Provide referrals to comprehensive supportive services at Brookview House across all community sites; accompany survivors to meetings and appointments when necessary.
• Develop, promote, and facilitate support groups at designated community locations.
• Maintain a comprehensive referral directory and cultivate collaborative relationships with community groups, organizations, advocates, and government agencies.
• Maintain current and accurate records of services, update database information, and prepare periodic reports as needed.
• Participate in case conferences and agency meetings as required.
• Represent the agency at community collaborator meetings and events.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, Public Health, Human Services, or equivalent (or 4–5 years of equivalent advocacy experience in lieu of degree) REQUIRED

Master’s degree in related human services field PREFERRED

Experience:

Minimum of 3 years of experience working as an advocate with individuals and groups (or 4–5 years without BA); experience navigating community resources serving low-income/homeless individuals REQUIRED

Experience working within Boston district courts, health centers, and community organizations PREFERRED

Licenses / Certs:

Ability to travel throughout Boston

Valid MA driver’s license and access to an automobile

Skills:

• Excellent supportive listening skills
• Demonstrated cultural competence with diverse ethnic, cultural, socio-economic, ability, sexual orientation, and religious backgrounds
• Sensitive, non-judgmental communication skills (in-person and telephone)
• Strong organizational and multi-tasking skills; ability to work independently and collaboratively
• Strict adherence to professional boundaries and client confidentiality

Bilingual PREFERRED

Other:

• Demonstrated commitment to Brookview’s philosophy, social justice, and social change
• Ability to work evenings and/or weekends when needed
• Ability to pass background check

Hybrid field and office environment. Work is performed across local community health centers, district courtrooms, partner agencies, residential programs, and the Brookview administrative office. Involves active travel across Boston neighborhoods (Dorchester, Roxbury, Mattapan) and occasional evening or weekend hours.

Bilingual English and Spanish preferred.