Kansas State University Social Work Program

NOW RECRUITING: Join MSPD’s Expanding Holistic Defense Team!
The Missouri State Public Defender’s Holistic Defense Services Program is growing statewide, and we’re seeking passionate individuals to join us in supporting clients whose legal challenges are often rooted in poverty, trauma, and unmet behavioral‑health needs. Our team uses a collaborative, client‑centered approach to break cycles of criminalization and promote stability, dignity, and justice.
We are currently hiring for THREE impactful roles. Please help us spread the word!

1. Mitigation Specialist (Placement Available Statewide, Full‑Time Employment. Starting Pay: $50,256) CLOSES SOON!

Mitigation Specialists take a holistic approach to representation, working with clients to identify biopsychosocial needs, connect to community-based resources, and provide mitigation advocacy in their cases.
• Conduct interviews, gather records, and work with support networks to develop mitigation that uplifts each client’s life story.
• Provide case management by connecting clients with treatment, transportation, and community resources that support stability.
• Support attorneys through in-depth mitigation for bond decisions, negotiations, and sentencing.
• Build local partnerships, supervise interns, and help track data that demonstrates the impact of holistic defense.

How to apply:
• Visit mocareers.gov
• Select Department: Missouri State Public Defender
• Select Division: Holistic Defense Services
• Apply for the “Mitigation Specialist” position

Positions are contingent on funding, with start dates after July 1

2. AmeriCorps Holistic Advocate (Placement Available Statewide, Starting September 1st 2026 - August 31st 2027)

Entry‑level role working directly with clients, attorneys, and community partners. Advocates help clients access essential services and stability.

Key contributions:
• Connect clients with housing, health care, treatment programs, transportation, and other essential resources that support stability.
• Help clients obtain IDs, insurance, and key documents that remove barriers and strengthen their foundation.
• Conduct meaningful interviews, engage families and supporters, and gather materials that help tell each client’s full story.
• Build community partnerships and support data-driven practices that advance holistic defense across Missouri.
• Provide peer supports to clients with substance use or mental health needs (if applicable)

Benefits include a living stipend, eligibility for an education award upon successful completion of service, and health insurance for full-time members, among others. Positions are contingent on funding.

Apply here:
https://my.americorps.gov/mp/listing/viewListing.do?fromSearch=true&id=129075
(If the link does not load, search “AmeriCorps Holistic Advocate” and select Grant Year 26–27.)

3. AmeriCorps Holistic Defense Development VISTA (St. Louis and Kansas City)

Help build MSPD’s statewide capacity to deliver holistic defense. VISTAs strengthen programs, partnerships, resources, grant funding, and training initiatives while gaining hands‑on experience in public defense, data analysis, communications, community engagement, and more.

• One‑year full‑time term; start dates July–August 2026
• Locations: St. Louis or Kansas City
• Benefits include training, a living stipend, and an education award or end‑of‑service stipend

Ideal for recent graduates or anyone interested in law, social work, public policy, or social justice. No legal background required.
Apply here:
Two roles available starting 7/13/26:
Holsitic Defense VISTA Link: July Start
https://my.americorps.gov/mp/listing/viewListing.do?fromSearch=true&id=126123

Two roles availalble starting 8/10/26:
Holistic Defense VISTA Link
https://my.americorps.gov/mp/listing/viewListing.do?fromSearch=true&id=129397



To learn more or ask questions, contact:
Gwen Wotawa
1114 Market St, St. Louis, MO 63101
(314) 340‑7625 | [email protected]
publicdefender.mo.gov

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