Shelter Advocate

Job Summary:

Mary Claire’s Place is seeking a compassionate and dedicated Shelter Advocate to join our Emergency Response Services team. This role is essential in ensuring the smooth operation of our emergency shelter and 24/7 domestic violence crisis line. The Shelter Advocate will provide trauma-informed and culturally sensitive support to survivors and their children, offering them a safe space during times of crisis.

Specific Responsibilities:

The Shelter Advocate will be responsible for the following duties:

Crisis Hotline Support:

Answer calls to the crisis hotline with sensitivity and a trauma-informed approach.

Provide accurate information, resources, and community referrals to callers.

Offer crisis counseling and assist in developing safety plans for individuals in need.

Client Intake and Shelter Coordination:

Conduct phone intakes to assess and determine eligibility for shelter services.

Arrange transportation for clients coming to the shelter.

Complete client intake and orientation processes upon arrival.

Shelter Monitoring and Client Support:

Conduct house and unit rounds at least three times per shift, addressing client concerns as needed. Ensure clients adhere to shelter guidelines.

Assist clients with meeting basic needs, such as access to food, clothing, and childcare.

Prepare and turnover rooms after client departures.

Communication and Confidentiality:

Maintain of client information and the shelter’s location.

Effectively communicate with shelter staff and the main office to ensure seamless operations.

Record Keeping and Maintenance:

Maintain accurate and up-to-date records for all program activities.

Ensure cleanliness of common areas, office spaces, and vehicles; report maintenance needs promptly. Adhere to time clock procedures.

Training and Additional Responsibilities:

Complete 40 hours of domestic violence and sexual assault training within the first year of employment.

Participate in additional training as directed by the Shelter Manager or Director of Housing.

Complete assigned projects and tasks during shifts.

This position requires a compassionate and detail-oriented individual committed to supporting survivors and ensuring the shelter operates efficiently.

Minimum Requirements:

· High School Diploma required

· Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and 12-hour shifts.

· Proficiency in basic computer skills, including email, word processing, and data entry.

· Excellent verbal and written communication skills

· Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds in a compassionate and nonjudgmental manner.

· Ability to provide trauma-informed services, maintain professional boundaries, and demonstrate attention to detail and a strong work ethic.

Preferred Qualifications:

· One year of experience in human services, social work, public health, or a related field.

· Prior experience working with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, or other trauma preferred.

· Experience working with individuals in crisis or vulnerable populations is highly desirable.

· Demonstrated commitment to the mission of the New Orleans Family Justice Center.

· Bilingual proficiency Spanish, Vietnamese, or Arabic is preferred

Reporting Relationship: Shelter Director & Shelter Manager

Salary Range: Starting salary is $16.00 hourly

Interested applicants please send resume and cover letter to Auriel Collier Shelter Director at acollier@nofjc.org

NOFJC is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or national origin. NOFJC is committed to building a diverse staff and strongly encourages applications from racial and religious minorities, all gender identities, people living with disabilities, and veterans.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: From $16.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Loan forgiveness
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Evening shift
• Morning shift

Ability to Commute:

• New Orleans, LA 70113 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• New Orleans, LA 70113: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $16