Job Title: Victim Services Advocate

Program: SOLVE (gun violence intervention and victim assistance)

Reports To: Chief Operations & Program Officer (COPO)

Classification: Full-time, salaried, exempt

Compensation: $43,680 per year

Schedule: Flexible hours, including on-call availability for emergencies

Location: Peoria, IL; multi-site, including client homes, hospitals, courts, and community settings

About ART INC- ART INC is a community-based arts and culture nonprofit in Peoria, IL. Our mission is to INSPIRE and EMPOWER the community through arts, education and culture. ART INC serves young people and families through three main programs: ASALA (Arts, Science and Leadership Academy) for youth ages 6 to 14; Pathways to College or Careers, providing job training and job development for ages 15 to 24; and SOLVE, providing gun violence intervention and victim assistance. ART INC staff, board, volunteers, and teaching artists work to give every student the chance to imagine, create, and realize their full potential through the arts, regardless of ability to pay.

About the Position- The Victim Services Advocate supports and empowers victims of violence and their families as they recover from physical and emotional trauma. The Advocate connects clients with skills, services, and opportunities that promote healing and resilience, and works closely with other victim service providers to ensure seamless support.

The Advocate responds to incidents of community violence, including non-fatal and fatal shootings, and maintains a caseload of up to 25 participants.

Requirements- Applicants must meet the following to be considered:

• Bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related field; master's degree preferred
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in victim services, including crisis intervention and trauma-informed care
• Experience working with victims of violence and a deep understanding of trauma dynamics
• Strong knowledge of community resources and ability to navigate public and private service systems
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with diverse populations in high-stress situations
• Ability to work independently and on a team, with strong organizational and time management skills
• Willingness to work flexible hours and be on call for emergencies

Duties and Responsibilities- The duties below illustrate the types of work performed. Omitting a specific duty does not exclude it from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the role.

• Respond on-site or by phone to incidents of community violence in designated areas, after notification from outreach workers, police, or other sources
• Visit crime scenes, victims' homes, hospitals, and other healthcare settings as needed
• Provide immediate support at hospitals, medical examiner's offices, and during funeral planning
• Assess crisis levels and refer clients to appropriate counseling services
• Provide trauma-informed care and develop case plans based on each victim's needs
• Help clients navigate public agency processes for victim compensation, emergency financial assistance, and more
• Connect families to mental health services, trauma-informed youth programs, employment support, and other resources
• Facilitate communication with police so families receive updates on their cases
• Lead weekly support groups for victims and their families
• Provide support during court visits and trials
• Maintain a caseload of up to 25 participants and ensure all intake forms are complete
• Follow all ART INC policies, procedures, and program expectations
• Other duties as assigned

Supervisor Relationship- The Victim Services Advocate takes direction from the COPO in all matters related to the duties and responsibilities of this position. Hiring, onboarding, and personnel questions are handled by the HR Manager.

Work Environment- This position is multi-site and community-based. Work takes place in the field, including client homes, hospitals, courts, and other community settings, and requires independent travel.

Mental and Physical Requirements- Physical effort is light, with intermittent lifting or carrying of up to 25 pounds and walking up and down stairs. The Advocate works in high-stress, trauma-related situations and may experience pressure tied to crisis response and case deadlines.

Compensation and Benefits- $43,680 per year. Full-time employees are eligible for ART INC's benefits package, including a choice of three medical plans, dental and vision coverage, paid time off, and paid holidays.

How to Apply- Apply through this posting. Please upload your resume with your application.

Equal Opportunity Statement- ART INC is committed to providing a fair and welcoming environment for everyone who enters our building, works with us, or participates in our programs, within the parameters of the law.