Domestic Violence Advocate - Housing Navigator

Caring Unlimited is York County’s Domestic Violence Resource Center. We offer direct support and safety planning services to anyone impacted by domestic violence, along with prevention education, training, and professional consultation.

We are hiring a Domestic Violence Advocate-Housing Navigator. In this position you will be a member of the residential services team, assisting victims of domestic violence overcome barriers to obtaining and maintaining housing.

What you will do:

In this role you will work directly with victims of domestic violence, as well as with the York County housing system, to help victims secure safe and stable places to live. You will do this through individualized, non-judgmental client support, advocacy, and case management.

In addition you will:

• Provide direct support to adults and children in our shelter: You will create a welcoming, supportive, and safe environment, supporting residents to meet their own goals using a strengths-based, empowerment model. You will help residents meet immediate needs, and arrange transportation as needed.
• Navigate the housing system: You will support clients in securing and maintaining safe and stable housing by developing individualized housing plans, navigating the housing voucher process, and advocating for their permanent housing needs. In this role, you will build relationships with landlords in the community, represent Caring Unlimited at the York County Service Hub, Coordinated Entry, and other regional homelessness councils, and maintain a working knowledge of Maine State Housing’s programs.
• Perform general office work: You will maintain accurate, complete, and timely documentation in paper and electronic files. You will engage in weekly staff meetings and routine office coordination. You will participate in shared 24-hour helpline coverage and backup as scheduled, including being on call for occasional nights and weekends. You will also complete other tasks and projects as assigned.
• Residential services work: You will play a critical role in this work by communicating regularly about program and client needs with other residential staff to coordinate services and activities at our shelter and transitional housing. You will also assist with residential programming and light housekeeping tasks as needed.

What we’re looking for in you:

Caring Unlimited is a dynamic environment that offers the opportunity to do meaningful, survivor-centered work alongside dedicated, supportive colleagues. We are looking for individuals who align with our mission, vision and values, and bring professionalism and care to their role.

You will also bring:

• Knowledge and sensitivity to issues of domestic violence, sexual assault, and/or stalking
• An associate’s degree in a related field, or the equivalent along with closely-related work or personal experience;
• Ability to complete Caring Unlimited’s required advocacy training within 6 months of start date
• Motivation and initiative to balance a steady caseload, while staying organized and managing time effectively to balance multiple projects, meet deadlines, and successfully cope with pressures related to working with our clientele
• Strong communication skills and the ability to build positive working relationships through both independent and collaborative work to ensure survivor-centered support
• Demonstrated ability to maintain strict confidentiality of client, coworker, and internal business information
• A valid driver’s license and access to reliable transportation
• The ability to work comfortably in a general office environment, using standard computer programs, including Microsoft Office, and database systems. You may occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Follow established policies and procedures and comply with all safety requirements

Salary & Benefits:

• Salary starts at $21/hour
• Generous paid time off! 3 weeks vacation, 12 holidays, and 7 sick days
• 95% employer-paid health insurance for employees and dependent children
• Health Reimbursement Account
• Employee Assistance Program
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer match
• Short and long-term disability and life insurance
• Quarterly staff wellness events

Join Caring Unlimited:

At Caring Unlimited we believe in creating a community where everyone is safe, respected, and free from abuse. Our dedicated and professional team is passionate about making a difference in the lives of survivors of domestic violence and their families. If you’re looking for meaningful work in a supportive, trauma-informed environment, you’ve come to the right place.

Why work with us?

Mission-Driven Work: Every role at Caring Unlimited contributes to ending domestic violence in York County.

Supportive Culture: We provide excellent training, supervision, and ongoing professional development.

How to apply:

Send your resume and a brief explanation of your interest and relevant experience to mail@caring-unlimited.org with the job title in the subject line. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis until positions are filled.

Caring Unlimited is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer; and it does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, religion, color, creed, ancestry or national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression, physical or mental disability, service member status, family status, or any other status protected by law.

Pay: From $21.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 403(b) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Mileage reimbursement
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Why are you interested in this position?

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Sanford, ME 04073 (Required)

Work Location: In person