Support Staff - Young Adult Shelter

Description

At Volunteers of America (VOA) Spokane, we believe every person deserves a chance to feel safe, valued, and supported.
The Young Adult Shelter (YAS) offers that opportunity — a safe, welcoming space for young adults ages 18–24 who are navigating homelessness, instability, or other serious life challenges.

Located on East Augusta Avenue, with medical services next door and Spokane Community College right across the street, YAS provides easy access to healthcare, education, and community connection. It’s more than a place to stay — it’s a place where young adults can gain stability, build confidence, and move toward independence.

The Role

We’re hiring Overnight Shelter Support Staff (9:00 PM – 9:00 AM) to join a dedicated and mission-driven team.

This is not a “sit behind a desk” position. It’s active, hands-on, and people-centered work. Every interaction — whether serving a meal, resolving a conflict, or listening to someone’s story — is an opportunity to offer meaningful support and model stability.

Our Shelter Support Staff use de-escalation skills, clear boundaries, and encouraging communication to help guests problem-solve, learn new skills, and take ownership of their progress. We don’t do things for people — we teach and guide so they can do for themselves.

Pay: $20.00/hour with a $0.50 overnight differential
Status: Part-Time (with opportunity to grow into Full-Time)
On-Call Rotation: Each team member carries the on-call phone one week, 1–2 times per year and may need to cover shifts during that week.

What You’ll Do

• Welcome guests and build rapport with empathy, consistency, and respect.
   
• Provide overnight crisis response and emotional support using trauma-informed approaches.
   
• Use de-escalation and communication skills to maintain a calm, safe, and structured environment.
   
• Maintain clear boundaries while encouraging accountability and growth.
   
• Document interactions, intakes, and services accurately and professionally.
   
• Prepare simple meals, distribute hygiene supplies, and keep the shelter clean and organized.
   
• Participate in team meetings, training, and supervision to strengthen skills.
   
• Carry the on-call phone during assigned rotation weeks and provide coverage as needed.

Requirements

What You Bring

• High School Diploma or GED
   
• Must be 21 years of age or older
   
• Eligible for Agency Affiliated Counselor (AAC) credential (must apply within 30 days of hire)
   
• Willingness to obtain within 6 months (VOA provides support):
   
  • CPR/First Aid/Bloodborne Pathogens Certification
     
  • Food Handler’s Permit
     
• Ability to pass a background check and maintain reliable transportation
   

Preferred Experience:

• Working with high-risk or marginalized young adults
   
• Navigating crises with calm, empathy, and sound judgment
   
• Balancing compassion with structure and accountability
   
• Managing time and responsibilities independently on overnight shifts
   

Why You’ll Love Working Here

• Mission with meaning: Every day, you’ll help carry out VOA Spokane’s mission — uplifting people and strengthening communities.
   
• Brand promise in action: Seeing People First, Empowering All to Thrive isn’t just what we say — it’s how we serve and support.
   
• Relational, meaningful work: Every conversation is a chance to build trust, teach skills, and help young adults move forward.
   
• Professional growth: Become AAC-certified, receive paid training, and develop experience in behavioral health and social services.
   
• Part-time benefits: Accrued vacation and sick leave hours, free training and certifications, and a supportive, team-based environment.
   

Ready to Help Spokane’s Young Adults Build Stability and Strength?

Join us at the Young Adult Shelter, where every moment of connection is a chance to empower Spokane’s young adults to take the next step toward a stronger, more independent future.

Salary : $20 - $21