Shelter Advocate - 2nd Shift

SCHEDULE: FRIDAY - TUESDAY (2:30P - 11P)

DESCRIPTION:

The Shelter Advocate is dedicated to providing a safe and caring environment for individuals impacted by domestic and sexual abuse. In this role, you will offer crucial support to survivors, providing emotional assistance, crisis intervention, and personalized case management. Your responsibilities will include but are not limited to creating individualized safety plans and facilitating access to essential resources such as housing, employment opportunities, legal aid, and medical care. You will play a key role in maintaining a secure and organized shelter environment, ensuring it remains welcoming and well-stocked with necessary supplies. Collaboration with community partners will be essential to enhance service delivery and support for our clients. The Shelter Advocate will demonstrate empathy, strong communication skills, and a commitment to promoting healing and empowerment among survivors of abuse.

QUALIFICATIONS:

· Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, or a related field preferred

· Experience working in a shelter, crisis intervention, or related environment

· Strong understanding of domestic and sexual violence issues and trauma-informed care

· Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills

· Ability to work independently and as part of a team

· Proficiency in using computer software, including Microsoft Office and database management systems.

· Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.PA Act 33/34 and/or federal clearance must be obtained during trial employment period

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

· Federal, Child Abuse, and Act 34 Clearances

· Valid driver’s license, vehicle, required insurance coverage, and safe driving record

· Ability to handle stressful situations and maintain professional boundaries

· Successful completion, during the trial employment period, of PA domestic violence and sexual assault crisis intervention training as per 23 PA CS Sec. 6101-6118 and 23 PA CS Sec. 5495.1 and the PCADV and PCAR standards

RESPONSIBILITY:

Direct Client Support:

o Provide emotional support, crisis intervention, case management, and advocacy to victims and survivors of Domestic violence or sexual assault and or other significant others

o Conduct intake assessments and develop individualized safety and goal plans with clients.

o Assist clients in identifying and accessing resources such as housing, employment, legal aid, and medical care

o Offer support in safety planning, goal setting, and decision-making processes.

o Be available and present during work hours for shelter residents needs

Shelter Operations:

o Maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all shelter residents

o Ensure that the shelter is clean, organized, and well-stocked with necessary supplies

o Monitor shelter activities, enforce rules, and mediate conflicts as needed

o Provide transportation for shelter residents to appointments or as needed

o Assist with daily living needs, including shopping for essentials

o Provide security oversight during work hours

Program Coordination:

o Facilitate support groups, workshops, and educational sessions for shelter residents

o Collaborate with community partners and agencies to provide service and support for clients

o Participate in outreach and community education efforts to raise awareness about domestic and sexual abuse and available resources

Advocacy and Case Management:

o Advocate on behalf of clients with various systems, including but not limited to: legal, medical, housing, and social services

o Use the database to maintain accurate and confidential client records and keep statistical information

o Provide case management services, including follow-up and aftercare support for clients transitioning out of the shelter

o Ensure clients understand their rights and options and support them in making informed decisions

Professional Development:

o Stay informed about best practices and current trends in domestic and sexual violence advocacy and attend training sessions, workshops, and conferences as required

o Participate in regular supervision, team meetings, and case reviews

Hotline Participation:

• Participate in the 24-hour hotline, providing immediate support and assistance to callers in crisis

o Take hotline shifts during the week and weekends as needed

o Provide documentation of all hotline calls, including pertinent client information and details of provided assistance, to the Director of Programs in a timely manner

• Assist with emergency financial application forms and filing compensation claims to the Victim Compensation Program

Trauma-informed and Self-Care Practices:

• Integrate trauma-informed care practices into all aspects of service delivery, recognizing the impact of trauma on victims/survivors.
• Encourage clients to engage in self-care and personal empowerment strategies as part of their healing process.
• Practice self-care and maintain appropriate boundaries to prevent vicarious trauma and burnout, participating in regular supervision and professional development activities.

Perform other responsibilities and duties as assigned.

Pay: From $20.25 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Language:

• Spanish (Preferred)

Shift availability:

• Night Shift (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $20