Women's Advocate
Our Organization:
The Victoria Faulkner Women’s Centre is an equality seeking organization that strives towards the day when all women walk in safety, live healthy lives, excel in leadership roles and are supported and empowered to fulfill their dreams. We are guided by the core values of feminism, inclusiveness, anti-oppression, respect and equality.
Job Summary:
The Women's Advocate provides trauma-informed, client centered support to individuals seeking assistance with navigating systems related to safety, health, legal matters and overall wellbeing. This role supports individuals in understanding their rights, accessing services, and making informed decisions while minimizing barriers, delays and re-traumatization.
Working from an intersectional and feminist lens, the Women's Advocate fosters a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment through direct advocacy, education and community engagement. This position also supports program coordination, outreach, and system-level advocacy while working collaboratively with community partners to strengthen service delivery and responsiveness to women’s diverse needs.
Reporting to the Executive Director, the Women’s Advocate is responsible for delivering frontline advocacy services, supporting program development and outreach initiatives, maintaining community partnerships, and contributing to reporting and funding requirements.
Main Responsibilities
Direct Support & Advocacy
a. Provide one-on-one support to individuals, including crisis intervention, safety planning, system navigation, and referrals to community resources.
b. Offer short-term counselling and emotional support to address immediate needs.
c. Assist individuals in identifying and prioritizing short- and long-term goals.
d. Support individuals in understanding their rights and making informed decisions.
e. Provide advocacy and accompaniment related to income security, legal, health, housing, and family matters.
f. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of relevant services, resources, and supports.
Community Engagement & Programming
a. Develop and implement workshops and support groups aligned with program goals and community needs.
b. Coordinate guest speakers and partner agencies to enhance programming.
c. Facilitate educational sessions on topics related to women’s issues, advocacy, and empowerment.
d. Support the development of responsive and inclusive programming.
Outreach & Systemic Advocacy
a. Build and maintain partnerships with community service providers and organizations (e.g., health, justice, and social service sectors).
b. Participate in community committees, initiatives, and collaborative projects addressing systemic barriers and social justice issues.
c. Conduct outreach and public education to increase awareness of available supports and women’s issues.
d. Contribute to advocacy efforts aimed at improving systems and services for women.
Administration & Reporting
a. Maintain accurate and confidential client records and service statistics.
b. Prepare monthly, semi-annual, and annual reports for internal and external stakeholders.
c. Support funding reporting requirements and program documentation.
d. Maintain organized filing systems (digital and physical).
General Responsibilities
a. Support drop-in services by responding to inquiries and welcoming visitors.
b. Assist with program development, funding proposals, and organizational initiatives.
c. Contribute to the upkeep and maintenance of the Women’s Centre space.
d. Stay informed on emerging issues and best practices related to advocacy and women’s services.
Education and Knowledge Required:
- Post-secondary education in social work, counselling, or a related field, or a combination of education and relevant experience in advocacy and women’s services.
- Knowledge of women’s issues, gender-based violence, and systemic barriers impacting access to services.
- Experience providing crisis intervention, advocacy, and/or counselling support.
- Strong understanding of community resources and service systems.
- Ability to conduct research, gather information, and contribute to reports.
- Commitment to equity, inclusion, and anti-oppressive practice.
- Recent Vulnerable Sector Check.
- 8. Valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle.
Skills and Abilities:
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to apply trauma-informed, client-centered, and strengths-based approaches.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work independently, manage competing priorities, and adapt in a fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships and collaborate with community partners.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and general computer applications.
• Non-judgmental, empathetic, and respectful approach to working with diverse populations.
