What are the responsibilities and job description for the Housing Advocate position at Abuse & Rape Crisis Center?
About Us
The Abuse & Rape Crisis Center (ARCC) provides comprehensive, trauma-informed services to survivors of domestic violence, sexual violence, and other forms of interpersonal violence. Our team is mission-driven, supportive, and committed to empowering survivors and strengthening communities.
Position Summary
The Housing Advocate provides housing advocacy, rapid rehousing support, and stabilization services to survivors of domestic and interpersonal violence across Bradford, Sullivan, and Tioga Counties. This position includes in-office, community-based, and mobile advocacy work. Travel within the tri-county region is required.
The Housing Advocate works closely with ARCC, Sullivan County Victim Services, and Haven of Tioga County. This position is full-time (38 hours/week) and is based out of ARCC’s office.
Responsibilities
Housing Advocacy & Diversion
- Conduct housing needs assessments using the Coordinated Entry System and other tools.
- Collaborate with survivors to develop individualized housing plans with goals, objectives, and timelines.
- Assist survivors in accessing resources, supports, and social service programs.
- Research and maintain knowledge of affordable housing, supportive housing, landlord contacts, and community resources.
- Build relationships with housing stakeholders and participate in Local Housing Options Team meetings and relevant committees.
- Conduct inspections of prospective housing units for rapid rehousing program requirements.
- Provide follow-up services, home visits, and support during transition and exit from the program.
Direct Survivor Services
- Provide trauma-informed, survivor-driven support, including crisis counseling, hotline response, safety planning, and referrals.
- Offer community-based mobile case management to survivors and their significant others.
- Assist individuals and families in emergency safe housing to access resources for stable, affordable housing and financial support.
- Conduct housing assessments, develop action plans, and support participants’ progress.
- Provide transportation to clients in the rapid rehousing program.
- Participate in the on-call hotline rotation as needed.
General Duties
- Maintain accurate documentation and meet deadlines.
- Participate in staff meetings, continuing education, and community meetings.
- Engage in systems advocacy when necessary.
- Maintain an organized workspace and shared areas.
- Complete outcome measurements and use evaluation tools.
- Perform other duties as assigned by the Executive Director.
Qualifications
- Two or more years of experience in a human services field, college education, or relevant training.
- Housing-related experience preferred.
- Must complete ARCC’s counselor/advocate training upon hire.
- Strong organizational, office, and record-keeping skills.
- Competency in program coordination, public speaking, facilitation, collaboration, and planning.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Knowledge of victim issues and trauma-informed practices.
- Basic computer skills.
- Must obtain required clearances.
- Ability to establish positive, professional relationships with survivors, coworkers, and partner agencies.
- Knowledge of community resources for high-risk populations.
- Valid driver’s license, reliable vehicle, and automobile insurance required.
Physical & Work Environment Requirements
- Frequent use of a computer, phone, and written documentation.
- Ability to travel throughout the tri-county region.
- Ability to carry up to 15 lbs frequently and up to 30 lbs occasionally.
- Work may involve exposure to varying noise levels, frequent interruptions, emotionally intense situations, and secondary trauma.
- Ability to transport clients in personal or ARCC vehicle.
Values & Expectations
ARCC employees are expected to uphold agency values including:
- Mission focus
- Empowering survivors
- Responsible use of agency resources
- Professionalism
- Accountability
- Intentional communication
- Team commitment
Equal Opportunity Employer
ARCC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, national origin, age, or any other protected class.
Pay: From $21.00 per hour
Expected hours: 38.0 per week
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Mileage reimbursement
- Paid time off
- Retirement plan
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Do you have at least one year of experience working one on one with persons who have experienced trauma or who have been impacted by interpersonal violence?
- This position requires the candidate to be within 45 minutes of Towanda, PA, in case of on-call crisis response. Are you located within 45 minutes of Towanda, PA?
- Are you able to provide on-call (after hours) services, between 4 pm - 8 am nights and 8 am - 4 pm on weekends/holidays? On-call may include phone calls or in-person response and is approximately 5-6 shifts a month.
Work Location: In person
Salary : $21