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JOB TITLE: Shelter Advocate

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REPORTS TO:  Shelter Coordinator

CLASSIFICATION:  Non-Exempt/Hourly

WAGE: $18+

HOURS:  Full or part-time - including evenings and weekends

PRIMARY LOCATION:  Safe Shelter (confidential location)

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POSITION SUMMARY: This position provides client-centered crisis intervention, in person, or by phone to coordinate advocacy, emergency shelter, and transportation for clients and their families.

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ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS (not an exhaustive list):

 

  • Provide client-centered, strength-based services. Provide case management to clients at least weekly, as assessed by client’s needs and availability.

  • Greet new clients, interview, complete intake forms, and data entry; give house tours within the first 3 hours of a new client entering the shelter.

  • Document activities of clients in a daily log according to Safe Passage Policies and Procedures.

  • Distribute clothing, hygiene supplies, diapers, etc. as needed.

  • Monitor and record the distribution of grant-funded supplies.

  • Assist clients in accomplishing shared household duties and oversee order and cleanliness of shelter.

  • Perform cleaning, organizing, and safety duties for the shelter.

  • Ensure the safety of clients by monitoring household policies, securing doors, setting alarms, etc.

  • Answer hotline crisis calls as needed according to procedures.

  • Maintain strict confidentiality of client, staff, volunteer, Board, and administrative matters.

  • Provide crisis intervention, support, referrals, and education to victims of sexual, physical, and emotional abuse.

  • Maintain a safe environment by supervising the activities of adults and children in the shelter. 

  • Assist clients in safety planning, identifying options, and problem-solving.

  • Provide information and referrals about community resources and Safe Passage services.

  • Provide crisis intervention as needed including resources, referrals, and support to clients.

  • Document all client services/support/interactions, training, and meetings in digital client management systems.

  • Perform administrative tasks as necessary such as campaign mailings, data entry, filing, copying, etc.

  • Provide education, resources, information, and referrals as to the dynamics of domestic violence/sexual assault.

  • Act as the agency’s ambassador: always edify agency, staff, and Board to enhance and promote its positive image in the community, the State, and among peer agencies.

  • Arrange for substitute shelter advocate coverage in the event of your needed schedule change along with a leave request form to the shelter manager for approval.

  • Attend required training, including but not limited to CPR classes and Advocate training.

  • Perform other job-related duties as assigned by Director, Coordinator, and/or Supervisor, including attendance at work-related meetings and participating in community health/social-related events.

 

QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS

  • Associate of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice, Social Work, or a related field plus one (1) year of related experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.

  • Ability to stay focused and work effectively in a fast-paced and high-pressure work environment.

  • Experience with trauma-informed services for domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, including children.

  • Strong verbal and written communications skills, including facilitating meaningful discussions on difficult/sensitive topics.

  • Ability to develop trusted, professional, and collaborative working relationships with survivors.

  • Must complete and stay up to date with required Crisis Intervention Training (32 hours) and CPR/First Aid for children and adults.

  • Must complete and stay up to date with required Advocacy Training.

  • Commitment to Safe Passage’s mission and values of Compassion, Integrity, Leading Boldly, Empowerment, Collaboration, Survivor-Centered, Empathy, Non-Judgmental, Justice, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.

  • A background check is required because of our work with vulnerable populations, but criminal history does not preclude employment and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis as it relates to the duties of this role.

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: The physical demands described in this job description are representative of those that must be met by an employee (with or without reasonable accommodation) to successfully perform the essential functions of this job: Work is performed primarily at the shelter, with infrequent responses for urgent care or monitoring for environmental safety risks and conducting wellness activities. This job requires prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, and working on a computer, and occasional driving/travel, including visiting homes, offices of healthcare, and social service providers, including during early hours, evening hours, and weekends as needed. This position works in high-stress environments with children and family situations. Requires lifting of up to 40 lbs. is required on an occasional basis.

 

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYMENT:  Safe Passage is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to Justice, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Applicants are considered for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, status as a veteran, or any other basis prohibited by local, state, or federal laws.

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For more information or to apply, please contact us at admin@safepassageid.org.

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