Sarah Mares
Client Advocate
San Jose,California
Summary
Motivated individual with comprehensive knowledge of social justice issues and systems affecting marginalized communities. Passionate about developing and facilitating programs to support communities in need. Also working on collaborative and analytical levels that builds strategic partnerships, advocate for clients and advance change for communities in need. Able to provide empathy and patience to connect with individuals on emotional level and provide support during difficult times.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
8
8
years of post-secondary education
2
2
Certifications
1
1
Language
Work History
Client Advocate
Partners For Justice
Oakland, CA
07.2022 - Current
- Conducted background interviews and research, gather documents (records, vital documents, letters of support), arrange treatment options, find family support, and prepare memorandum for attorney or court use.
- Assist clients in meeting court requirements, such as finding community service opportunities or assisting clients in entering court-mandated (or otherwise strategically beneficial) programs.
- Assist clients with benefits applications, including Medicaid, Medicare, ACA, CHIP, SSI/Disability, WIC, SNAP, Vets, and more
- Assist clients with the acquisition of vital documents, such as: birth certificate, social security card, ID, or a driver’s license
- Navigate clients to medical, mental health, and substance use treatment programs
- Refer clients to housing resources such as emergency housing, including shelters and motel voucher programs
- Assist with furthering or completing education, along with finding employment that is applicable and available.
ABA Behavior Technician
ACES
San Jose, CA
12.2021 - 07.2022
- Conducted functional behavior assessments, functional analysis, preference assessments, and assessments of basic learning and language skills to identify target behaviors and purpose of behaviors.
- Observed, monitored and recorded problem behaviors through accurate behavior-consequence data collection, graphs, and anecdotal notes.
- Promoted positive interactions with children with ADHD, Autism and oppositional defiance behavior by using visual supports, simplifying communication, and utilizing stress scales to turn emotions into concrete concepts.
- Worked as part of collaborative team to address changing needs of children and families.
- Monitored client progress to provide continued guidance and consistent feedback to families.
- Educated parents and caregivers to apply appropriate behavior management techniques.
Social Work Intern
Amigos De Guadalupe
San Jose, CA
08.2021 - 06.2022
- Performed client screenings and accurately recorded data in case files to facilitate clinical case coordination services and case management duties.
- Conducted outreach to local referral sources to build strong partnerships for supportive services.
- Offered community resource guidance to clients to meet family needs for assistance.
- Mediated between family members to facilitate conflict resolution and build healthy family relationships.
- Facilitated support groups and workshops to provide valuable services to clients.
- Participated in interdisciplinary team meetings to coordinate care for clients.
Student Assistant
San José State University
San Jose, CA
12.2018 - 05.2020
- Working closely with the dean of the College of Health and Human Sciences
- Assisted with event planning and coordination to keep events successful and provide positive experiences for attendees.
- Interacted with customers by phone, email, or in-person to provide information.
- Collaborated with various departments to complete assigned tasks.
- Prepared and edited documents to produce precise, accurate and professional communication.
Youth Intern
Peace Over Violence
Los Angeles, CA
07.2017 - 06.2018
- Worked closely in the Social Media and Digital track, crafting print and digital education materials for people of all ages as part of outreach efforts.
- Participated in community meetings to talk with members of public about violence and prevention methods.
- Networked with various stakeholders to build relationships with law enforcement, school leaders and community members.
- Organized group activities and outings for youth.
- Participated in regular meetings with leadership team to discuss strategies, challenges and successes.
- Participated in workshops and presentations related to projects to gain knowledge.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Social Work
San José State University
San Jose, CA 08.2018 - 05.2022
High School Diploma -
Montebello High School
Montebello, CA 08.2014 - 06.2018
Skills
Critical Thinking
Organization and Time Management
Excellent Communication
Dependable and Responsible
Teamwork and Collaboration
Active Listening
Crisis Intervention
Case management
Referrals and networking
Compassionate
Bilingual
Verbal and written communication
Certification
RBT - Registered Behavior Technician
Timeline
Client Advocate
Partners For Justice
07.2022 - Current
ABA Behavior Technician
ACES
12.2021 - 07.2022
Social Work Intern
Amigos De Guadalupe
08.2021 - 06.2022
Student Assistant
San José State University
12.2018 - 05.2020
Bachelor of Science - Social Work
San José State University
08.2018 - 05.2022
Youth Intern
Peace Over Violence
07.2017 - 06.2018
High School Diploma -
Montebello High School
08.2014 - 06.2018