CORA is currently seeking a Co-Response Advocate for the DVERT program, which involves embedding domestic violence professionals within law enforcement agencies. The primary goal of this program is to provide immediate support, intervention, and guidance to individuals involved in domestic violence situations. When law enforcement deems a home safe after a domestic violence call, they will request the presence of the Co-responder, who will then be dispatched to the scene. The Co-Responder will provide immediate services to victims-survivors at the time they are most likely to be receptive. Additionally, they will offer limited ongoing advocacy and assistance in navigating court procedures, filing restraining orders, accessing public assistance, emergency housing resources, legal procedures, and other relevant resources.

About CORA

As the only agency in San Mateo County with the sole purpose of serving those experiencing intimate partner abuse, CORA provides safety, support and healing. CORA’s comprehensive services include a 24-hour hotline, collaboration with law enforcement, emergency shelter options, legal services and family-centered mental health therapy. In addition, CORA provides community education and prevention programming throughout the county. CORA is a multicultural agency committed to serving individuals, regardless of age, ethnicity/race, financial status, language, sexual orientation, immigration status, class, religion, gender, gender expression, mental or physical ability.

Responsibilities

Responding to calls from law enforcement in the co-responder’s jurisdiction, provide immediate on-scene crisis response, needs assessment, and safety planning with all victims and their children of domestic violence after the scene is deemed safe. Facilitate access to emergency resources that increase immediate safety.
Work with law enforcement to ensure all necessary forms are completed to provide victim and child safety following the incident. Complete and file an Emergency Response Program referral as on-site support for law enforcement personnel.
Provide crisis counseling, education, and information regarding appropriate internal and external referrals.
Establish, develop and maintain excellent working relationships with Sheriffs and police officers involved.
Provide targeted limited case management and advocacy support to a caseload of clients supported during crisis. This includes accompaniment to file restraining orders or to meet with law enforcement and initial case management to identify and engage with needed mental health, legal, shelter and public resources.
In coordination with the Manager of Crisis Support Services, evaluate and formulate recommendations to improve systems as needed.
Provide leadership, training and consultation and implement concrete decision-making strategies to support ongoing collaboration with law enforcement.
Complete required documentation and enter data into client database in an accurate and timely manner. Maintain up to date client files, records, and reports, in accordance with program standards.
Communicate effectively with other members of the Crisis Support Services team and with law enforcement teams in order to ensure the most up-to-date information and appropriate follow-up for potential clients.
Assist in compiling program statistics, maintenance of filing systems, and development/implementation of new protocols and procedures.
Collaborate effectively with other departments and outside agencies to ensure successful service delivery and conduct community outreach, as needed, to optimize referral relationships with partner agencies.
Attend supervision, departmental and agency staff meetings as assigned.
Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

qualifications

Bilingual (In one or more of the following Spanish, Tagalog, Mandarin/ Cantonese) REQUIRED.
BA degree in social work, psychology, counseling, or related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience in the provision of social services.
At least 2 years consistent experience as a case manager, or in crisis / hotline response role. Experience with DV/SA preferred.
Experience working with law enforcement or similar professions preferred.
Experience working with survivors of domestic violence required, including completion of 40-hour domestic violence training. Candidates who have not completed the 40 training will be required to do so and are provided this through CORA.
Familiarity with community-based services in San Mateo County strongly preferred