What are the responsibilities and job description for the Shelter Advocate position at Arbor Youth Services?
Shelter Advocate
Agency Description
Arbor Youth Services is a non-profit organization that provides emergency shelter and other safe alternatives for homeless, runaway, and at-risk children and youth. Arbor Youth Services engages in youth outreach, offers family support, and facilitates the development of independent living skills for youth while in shelter care.
Position Summary
Under the supervision of the Shelter & Outreach Coordinator, the Shelter Advocate supports the daily operations of the emergency shelter and serves as a shift lead, providing guidance and support to Youth Advocates and Youth Workers. The Shelter Advocate ensures safe shelter functioning during assigned shifts, models trauma-informed care practices, and assists with staff support, youth engagement, and documentation.
Essential Functions
- Serve as shift lead and point of contact during assigned hours to support shelter operations.
- Provide attentive supervision and support to youth, promoting safety, respect, and positive youth development.
- Support Youth Advocates and Youth Workers through mentoring, real-time coaching, and problem-solving.
- Assist with onboarding new staff and supporting ongoing staff training as assigned.
- Promote a trauma-informed, culturally responsive, and LGBTQ affirming environment.
- Communicate clearly and professionally with the Shelter & Outreach Coordinator regarding incidents, youth concerns, staff needs, and facility needs.
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation including case notes, incident reports, medication logs, and other assigned records.
- Model effective de-escalation and positive behavior support strategies.
- Assist with youth activities, life-skills groups, recreational programming, and outings.
- Ensure facility cleanliness and order, including supervision of resident chores and participation in housekeeping tasks.
- Participate in scheduled supervision, team meetings, and required training.
Minimum Qualifications
- Demonstrated ability to lead by example and foster a supportive team environment.
- Ability to assess risk factors and respond effectively to youth in crisis.
- Knowledge of issues impacting abused, neglected, runaway, and homeless youth.
- Ability to maintain professionalism, confidentiality, and composure in high-stress situations.
- Ability to build and maintain positive working relationships with youth, staff, and community partners.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Commitment to trauma-informed, culturally competent, and LGBTQ affirming service delivery.
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.
Education & Experience
- High school diploma or GED required; Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in human services or relatedfield preferred.
- At least one year of experience working with youth in residential or social service settings preferred.
- Supervisory or shift-lead experience is strongly preferred.
Work Conditions & Schedule Full-time schedule with flexibility to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and varying shifts to ensure 24-hour shelter coverage. Work is performed in a residential environment requiring movement throughout the facility, active engagement with youth, and occasional lifting of supplies. The position may also require work in community settings as part of outreach or housing support services.Equal Opportunity Statement Arbor Youth Services is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other legally protected status.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $41,600.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $41,600