Application Process
To be considered for our program, the applicant must:
- Attend an Orientation
- Complete an application form
- Provide a copy of current California driver’s license and evidence of automobile insurance
- Provide three completed Reference Checklists
- Successfully complete a personal interview
- Pass Livescan Fingerprint, DMV and Megan’s Law Sex Offender Database screening
Initial Training Process
After the first screening interview, the Advocate Trainee completes mandatory classroom training of at least 30 hours. Each training session is from 6 – 9 PM, two nights a week over a five week period. Training is also held in our offices. The court observation is in San Mateo from 2 – 5 PM.
The specialized training is presented by Advocate staff and professionals, and topics covered include overview of the child welfare system, collaboration with other professionals, educational advocacy, understanding families, and much more.
Case Assignment
When all the mandatory training is completed, the new Advocate meets with an Advocate Supervisor for a second screening interview. Special Advocates now have the opportunity to choose their Advocate child.
An Advocate Supervisor will select several cases for the new Advocate to read based on Advocate preferences such as age and location. Please note that the waiting list may limit some of an Advocate’s preferences.
Once a child is selected, the Special Advocate contacts the Social Worker to discuss the case and to arrange the first meeting with the child.
Ongoing Education/In Service Training
Advocates are required to complete a minimum of twelve (12) hours each year in continuing education. This can be accomplished by reading relevant books and/or magazines, watching movies and attending workshops, seminars and monthly Networking Meetings.