What is an Advocate and why do I need one?
Our Advocates are trained and knowledgeable of the investigative and court process and are assigned to the families of all children served at the center to guide them through the system, offer support and provide education and resources to the caregivers. Even with support from the individuals working on the case, the very nature of the investigation can be traumatic.
What kind of services does the Advocate provide?
- Providing crisis intervention during the initial visit.
- Providing the parties involved with information regarding the criminal justice system.
- Providing the child and family a consistent contact person throughout the justice process.
- Providing the victim and other witnesses with a better understanding of the justice process and their role in it.
- Enhancing the cooperation of the family in the court process.
- Accompanying the child and non-offending parent to court.
- Facilitating linkages with other types of concrete services, i.e., housing, food, job services, clothing.
