Advocates STL

Core Functions of an Advocate

An Advocate performs three primary functions: connector, navigator, and voice.

1. The Connector

This role is about building bridges between the care receiver and the services they need. The advocate's job is to:

●       Identify Needs: They first listen to the individual to understand their unique situation. Do they need housing, job, mental health, substance abuse, or legal help?

●       Link to Resources: They connect the individual to a network of social services. This includes shelters, food banks, medical clinics, employment agencies, and legal aid. They know who to call, what paperwork is needed, and how to get an appointment.

●       Build Trust: A critical part of this role is building a trusting relationship. Many unhoused people have been failed by systems in the past, so the advocate must be reliable and compassionate.

2. The Navigator

This role is about helping the individual overcome the overwhelming challenges of bureaucracy and complex systems. The advocate:

●       Helps with Paperwork: They assist with filling out complicated forms for housing applications, benefit programs (like Social Security or Medicaid), and identity documents (like a state ID or birth certificate).

●       Attends Appointments: They often accompany the individual to appointments with doctors, social workers, or court officials. This provides moral support and helps ensure the person's story and needs are clearly communicated.

●       Breaks Down Barriers: They work to remove systemic and logistical barriers. This could mean arranging transportation to an appointment, finding childcare, or helping to secure a phone so the person can be reached.

3. The Voice

This is perhaps the most important function. The advocate serves as a spokesperson and champion for their care receiver. They:

●       Speak on Their Behalf: When a care receiver feels unheard or is unable to articulate their needs due to trauma, mental health challenges, or fear, the advocate can speak for them. This can be with a landlord, a case manager, or a government agency.

●       Defend Their Rights: Advocates are often knowledgeable about the legal rights of unhoused people and can step in to prevent discrimination or unfair treatment. They ensure the person is treated with dignity and respect.

●       Elevate Their Story: In a broader sense, an advocate may also speak publicly to challenge stereotypes, raise awareness about the root causes of homelessness, and advocate for more humane policies and resources at the community or governmental level.

In short, an advocate for a care receiver is not just a provider of a service. They are a tireless partner who believes in the individual's potential, helps them navigate a path to stability, and stands beside them to ensure their humanity is recognized and their needs are met.