Child & Family Advocate - South Mississippi Child Advocacy Center (SMCAC) - Gulfport, MS

Founded in 1912 as an adoption agency, Canopy Children's Solutions is Mississippi’s most comprehensive nonprofit provider of children’s behavioral health, educational, and social service solutions. Canopy employs a diverse group of mission-driven individuals committed to honoring the voice of Mississippi children and families. Being an integral part of the Canopy team involves committing to the Core Values that drive our organization forward:

• The voice of our children and families always comes first
• Relationships matter and our differences make us stronger
• We take great joy in service to others
• Our families and our communities deserve our very best

Canopy has been designated a Great Place to Work® for the fifth consecutive year, and is one of only eight companies in Mississippi to qualify for this certification in 2024-2025. Canopy’s employees are charged with building a healthy work culture within their teams, that focus on trust, and the collective goal of helping kids thrive and families to overcome extraordinary challenges.

Position Overview:

• The Child and Family Advocate has the primary responsibility of providing support services for child victims and their non-offending family members at the direction of the Child Advocacy Center (CAC) Program Director. 
• The Child and Family Advocate must be skilled and highly trained in dealing with families in crisis.
• The Child and Family Advocate must also understand the purpose and function of the CAC and be knowledgeable of existing policies and procedures.

Responsibilities & Qualifications:

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in a related field required, disciplines such as Social Work, Psychology and Counseling preferred.
• One (1) year of experience in victim advocacy and/or child victim advocacy required, two (2) years of experience preferred. The Child and Family Advocate must have knowledge of child abuse and neglect and be able to demonstrate professional experience working with children and individuals in crisis.
• Must have experience in conducting needs assessment of victims and families in order to make appropriate referrals.
• Must possess the ability to understand and abide by the confidentiality requirements and procedures related to working in an environment such as the Children’s Advocacy Center.
• Strong oral and written communication skills are required.
• Must have experience in working with diverse professionals from child protection, law enforcement, court systems and related community services.
• Must be at least 21 years of age, have a valid Mississippi driver’s license, a good driving record, proof of legally appropriate auto liability insurance, and must be willing to use personal vehicle for agency business.
• Child and Family Advocates must be available to work a flexible schedule to accommodate occasional nights and weekends for special projects.
• Travel is required as needed for in-home visitations and professional development and training.
• Bilingual ability preferred (English/Spanish).
• Candidates must meet the basic requirements of passing a criminal history background check.