Megan West
Pulaski,NY
Summary
Experienced and dedicated senior victim advocate with 23 years of proven expertise in providing advocacy services. Possessing a thorough understanding of community resources and the justice system. Maintaining a positive working environment and demonstrated an empathetic approach towards victims of domestic violence and sexual assault. Known for exceptional communication skills, sound judgement and a successful track record of establishing enduring relationships with diverse service providers. Skilled in utilizing a wide range of resources to identify unique needs and offer assistance to individuals from various backgrounds.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Victim Advocate - Full Time 37.5hrs/week
Oswego County Opportunities Inc.
02.2020 - Current
- Partnered with Oswego County District Attorney's office to assist with crime victims and outreach.
- Partnered with Oswego County Integrated Domestic Violence Court to assist with all court process.
- Partnered with Oswego County Family Court to assist with court process's.
- Provide 24- hour on call response to cases of rape and sexual assault at Oswego Hospital.
- Collaborate with various Law Enforcement Agencies to assist with crime victims.
- Collaborated with prosecutors, law enforcement, and other community partners to ensure effective communication and advocacy for victims'' rights.
- Attended interagency meetings and networked to create community partnerships.
- Developed partnerships with other community organizations to expand available resources for domestic violence victims, enhancing their access to comprehensive support services.
- Participated in multidisciplinary team meetings to review cases collaboratively with other service providers, resulting in improved coordination of care for clients.
- Problem solved and developed individualized safety plans for clients, resulting in increased personal security and autonomy.
- Improved communication with victims by providing regular updates on case progress and status.
- Implemented trauma-informed care practices when working with victims, promoting healing while minimizing the potential for re-traumatization.
- Improved victim support services by establishing a strong rapport and providing emotional assistance to crime victims.
- Educated clients on available resources and support services, empowering them to make informed decisions about their cases.
- Fostered a safe and supportive environment for victims during court proceedings by addressing their concerns and answering questions.
- Assisted clients in obtaining protective orders, facilitating their access to crucial legal protections against abusers.
- Connected clients with essential social services such as housing assistance, financial aid, and mental health counseling.
- Prepared detailed impact statements on behalf of victims to be presented in court, highlighting the emotional, physical, and financial effects suffered as a result of their victimization.
- Applied statistical theories and methodologies to address practical challenges analyzing key influencing factors and developing solution focused intervention for survivors.
- Established trust with clients by maintaining strict confidentiality standards and demonstrating empathy towards their unique situations and needs.
- Enhanced community awareness of available resources by organizing outreach events and presentations on victim advocacy programs.
- Managed high caseloads efficiently by prioritizing tasks based on urgency and maintaining strong attention to detail in all aspects of case management.
- Managed data collection and maintained comprehensive case records with meticulous attention to accuracy, confidentiality and adherence to legal organizational guidelines.
- Assisted with preparing reports to evaluate and ensure program objectives are being met.
- Participated in professional development and training opportunities to enhance skillset.
- Trained new advocates on best practices, contributing to a skilled team able to effectively support clients navigating challenging situations.
- Provided input for potential policy revision.
- Promoted a culture of self-care among staff and volunteers, fostering a healthy work environment that prioritized the well-being of both clients and service providers.
IRA Site Supervisor - Full Time 37.5hrs/week
Oswego County Opportunities Inc.
04.2006 - 02.2020
- Oversaw daily operations at site.
- Managed scheduling, handled procedures, and completed service plans.
- Managed and advocated in all aspects of individuals care such as medical, financial, plan of protective oversights and activities.
- Developed courses of actions when confronted with problems not usually encountered during daily operations.
- Advocated closely with medical facilities, scheduling appointments, accurately completing paperwork.
- Mentored and coached staff to improve performance and interactions with residents.
- Kept accounts, resident files and regulatory paperwork current and accurate with diligent attention to administrative requirements.
- Communicated effectively with residents, staff and other stakeholders by listening, being respectful and promoting positive demeanor.
- Protected clients' monies and property by tracking spending and reconciling accounts.
- Recruited, interviewed and hired staff members offering exceptional talent and brought great skills to team.
- Followed policy and procedures with HIPPA, and OPWDD.
Direct Support Professional - 37.5hrs/week
Oswego County Opportunities Inc.
02.2001 - 04.2006
- Assisted disabled clients to support independence and well-being.
- Administered medication as directed by physician.
- Monitored progress and documented patient health status changes to keep care team updated.
- Maintained clean, safe and well-organized environment.
- Developed safe and trusting environment for care.
- Built and maintained rapport with clients and family members to facilitate trusting caregiver relationship.
- Transported clients to and from medical appointments with safety and efficiency.
- Advocated to medical professionals regarding care and safety of individuals.
- Provided compassionate and patient-focused care to cultivate well-being.
- Assisted individuals with bathing, grooming, dressing and oral hygiene care both in private residences and facilities.
- Assisted with daily living activities, running errands and household chores.
- Addressed emergency situations calmly and effectively, prioritizing safety of both clients and staff members involved.
- Advocated for clients'' rights within community, raising awareness about issues affecting those with disabilities.
Education
FDC - Family Development Credential (FDC)
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY2009
High School Diploma -
Sandy Creek Central School
Sandy Creek, NY1998
Skills
- Crisis Intervention
- Victim advocacy
- Professional boundaries
- Client Confidentiality
- Reliability
- Time Management
- Documentation And Reporting
- Adaptability
- Critical Thinking
- Self-motivated professional
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Continuous Improvement
Certification
- Supporting Children and Families of Victims of Crime April 2024
- Trauma-Informed Conference November 2023
- Stalking Assessment and Safety Planning April 2022
- Guardian Ad Litem November 2021
- Licensed Rape Crisis Counselor - March-2020
- 40 Hour Domestic Violence Training - March 2020
- Medication Administration Course Certification 2001-2020
- Empowerment Skills for Family Workers 2008
- College of Direct Support NYSACRA - 2006
- SCIP Certified 2001-2020
- CPR and AED Certified
Timeline
Senior Victim Advocate - Full Time 37.5hrs/week
Oswego County Opportunities Inc.
02.2020 - Current
IRA Site Supervisor - Full Time 37.5hrs/week
Oswego County Opportunities Inc.
04.2006 - 02.2020
Direct Support Professional - 37.5hrs/week
Oswego County Opportunities Inc.
02.2001 - 04.2006
FDC - Family Development Credential (FDC)
Cornell University
High School Diploma -
Sandy Creek Central School