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Disabilities Advocate Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Advocate

Roanoke, VA · On-site

$19/hr

Advocate must be dependable, committed, and able to serve as a positive role model for youth in the ... disability or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where YAP ...

Patient Advocate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$17.25 - $22.25/hr

The Patient Advocate serves as a Sentara direct representative to patients/families that have ... Disability, and Critical Illness plans • Life Insurance • 401k/403B with Employer Match • ...

Housing Advocate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$18.75 - $24.25/hr

Advocacy Meet with homeless clients selected for YWCA's Rapid Re-Housing program to complete intake ... Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the ...

Housing Advocate

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

Advocacy • Meet with homeless clients selected for YWCA's Rapid Re-Housing program to complete ... Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the ...

Human Rights Advocate

Staunton, VA · On-site

$60K - $70K/yr

Human Rights Advocate Apply now Job no: 5111127 Work type: Full-Time (Salaried) Location: Staunton ... Reasonable accommodations are available to persons with disabilities during application and/or ...

The ECD Advocate works within the Education and Community Development (ECD) department, which ... Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for healthcare and dependent care. * Long-Term Disability, Short ...

Student Success Advocate Job no: 55000539 Work type: Classified Staff Location: Radford Categories ... Reasonable Accommodation Statement If you are an individual with a disability and desire ...

The Clinical Care Advocate (CCA) provides licensed clinical care advocacy support to Wounded, Ill ... disability. Note: CCAs are not providing direct clinical care; malpractice insurance is not ...

The Clinical Care Advocate (CCA) provides licensed clinical care advocacy support to Wounded, Ill ... disability. Note: CCAs are not providing direct clinical care; malpractice insurance is not ...

The Clinical Care Advocate (CCA) provides licensed clinical care advocacy support to Wounded, Ill ... disability. Note: CCAs are not providing direct clinical care; malpractice insurance is not ...

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Disabilities Advocate information

What does a disabilities advocate do?

A Disabilities Advocate works to support and promote the rights of individuals with disabilities. They help clients access necessary resources, services, and accommodations, and may represent them in interactions with organizations, schools, or government agencies. Advocates also raise awareness about disability issues and fight against discrimination. Their main goal is to ensure that people with disabilities are treated fairly and have equal opportunities in society.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a disabilities advocate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Disabilities Advocate, you need a strong understanding of disability rights, relevant laws (such as ADA), and advocacy techniques, often supported by a degree in social work, psychology, or related fields. Familiarity with case management software, legal research tools, and assistive technologies is typically important. Exceptional interpersonal skills, empathy, and strong communication abilities help advocates build trust and effectively represent their clients. These skills are essential for ensuring equitable access, navigating complex systems, and empowering individuals with disabilities.

What are some common challenges a disabilities advocate faces when working with clients and how can they be addressed?

Disabilities Advocates often encounter challenges such as navigating complex legal systems, overcoming communication barriers, and ensuring clients' voices are heard in decision-making processes. Building strong relationships with clients, staying updated on disability rights laws, and collaborating closely with service providers and legal representatives can help address these obstacles. Additionally, effective time management and self-care are important to manage caseloads and prevent burnout while offering high-quality support.

What is the difference between Disabilities Advocate vs Disability Support Worker?

AspectDisabilities AdvocateDisability Support Worker
CredentialsMay require certifications in advocacy, social work, or related fieldsOften requires certifications in caregiving, health support, or disability assistance
Work EnvironmentAdvocacy settings, community organizations, legal or policy environmentsPersonal care settings, homes, community centers
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, advocacy groupsHealthcare providers, residential facilities, community services

Disabilities Advocates focus on representing and supporting individuals' rights and navigating systems, while Disability Support Workers provide direct personal assistance and daily care. Both roles are vital in the disability sector but differ mainly in scope and work environment.

How do I become a disabilities advocate?

To become a disabilities advocate, gain knowledge about disability rights and policies through education or training, and develop strong communication and advocacy skills. Volunteering with disability organizations or pursuing relevant certifications can also enhance your qualifications for this role.

What does it mean to be a disabilities advocate?

A disabilities advocate is a professional who works to promote awareness, rights, and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. They may provide support, educate the public, and collaborate with organizations to improve policies and services, often requiring knowledge of disability laws and strong communication skills.

What qualifications do you need to work with people with disabilities?

A disabilities advocate typically needs a relevant bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related field, along with strong communication and interpersonal skills. Certification or training in disability services or advocacy can enhance qualifications, and experience working with individuals with disabilities is often preferred.

What job categories do people searching Disabilities Advocate jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Disabilities Advocate jobs in Virginia are:

Infographic showing various Disabilities Advocate job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

$19/hr

Part-time

Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Status: Part-Time Hourly
FLSA Classification: Non-Exempt
Hourly Rate: $19.00
Summary of the Position: Hourly, Part Time position serving youth and families throughout Roanoke County are available.
  • Advocate must be dependable, committed, and able to serve as a positive role model for youth in the community, school, and home settings.
  • The Primary responsibilities of the Advocate are to initiate, organize, plan, develop and implement direct advocacy services to assigned participants and their families.
  • All service plans will be based on a strength-based approach using the wrap around model.
  • This role is primarily focused on providing services to support academic goals and court-involved youth.
  • Advocate develops and maintains good relationships, including setting professional boundaries with participants, colleagues, court personnel, community resources and other relevant stakeholders.
  • Have good verbal and written communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively with court-involved youth and relevant stakeholders.
  • Collaborative skills with an ability to work independently and as part of a team and collaborate effective to ensure the safety of self and others.
  • This position offers flexible hours, competitive weekly pay, and activity reimbursement.

Qualifications/Requirements:
  • Minimum High School Diploma or GED is required.
  • Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Social Services, or related field is preferred.
  • Minimum of one year of experience with working directly with youth and families in community, home, or school settings.
  • Proficiency in Spanish is considered a valuable asset but is not required.
  • Ability to work with diverse populations of staff, children, and families in a collaborative and culturally sensitive manner.
  • Provide quality documentation, progress notes, and submitted within required deadlines.
  • General knowledge of client development, family dynamics, behavioral management techniques, and local community resources.
  • Skills in effective communication, maintaining relationships with social service providers, and coaching/training youth in age-appropriate behaviors and problem solving.
  • Reliable transportation, valid driver's license, and current auto insurance coverage is required.

Benefits Available:
  • Voluntary Dental
  • Voluntary Vision
  • UNUM Supplemental Insurance
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 403(b) Retirement Savings Plan.
  • Pet Insurance
  • Weekly Pay
  • Direct Deposit
  • Flexible Hours

Youth Advocate Programs, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment based on individual merit, skills, and qualifications, without regard to race, age, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, sex, military or veteran status, or disability or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where YAP operates. YAP will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.