Shelter Advocate
Reports To: Shelter Manager
Job Type: Full-Time/Part-Time
Location: Circle of Love Center, Inc.
Job Summary:
The Shelter Advocate ensures the safety, security, and well-being of residents and the shelter facility. This role provides direct support to victims and children of domestic violence, including crisis intervention, emotional guidance, and maintaining the shelter’s operations.
Responsibilities:
Crisis Hotline Support:
- Answer and assess crisis hotline calls for safety risks and shelter admissions.
- Provide referrals and resources to callers for various needs.
- Accurately document and maintain statistics on calls and services provided.
Resident Support:
- Provide emotional support, encouragement, and resources to residents.
- Supervise and coordinate daily activities for all families residing in the shelter.
- Respond to requests for assistance or supplies, ensuring all resident needs are met.
Facility Management:
- Maintain cleanliness and order in the facility through light cleaning, organizing, and restocking supplies.
- Conduct walkthroughs to support and encourage residents to maintain cleanliness and order in shared living spaces and bedrooms, promoting a harmonious communal environment.
- Secure shelter safety through proper alarm settings and enforcement of quiet hours.
Safety and Security:
- Perform regular checks throughout the residential and administrative spaces to ensure compliance with safety protocols.
- Respond quickly to emergencies or incidents and document appropriately.
Administrative Duties:
- Answer business phone lines, record messages, and coordinate weekday in-kind donation pickups.
- Assist with special projects and tasks assigned by the Shelter Manager and/or Executive Director.
Crisis Intervention and Intake:
- Welcome new residents, complete intake paperwork, and orient them to the shelter.
- Offer crisis intervention and peer support when needed.
- Update staff on any significant activities or issues during shifts.
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent (experience in crisis intervention or social services preferred).
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to handle sensitive situations professionally.
- Organizational skills and attention to detail in documentation and facility management.
- Ability to work independently and maintain confidentiality.
- Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, as needed.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to perform light cleaning and organizing tasks, such as sweeping and doing laundry.
- Capacity to conduct walkthroughs of the facility and respond to emergencies promptly.
Other Requirements
- Must be punctual and reliable and remain on-site during scheduled shifts.
- Training in trauma-informed care and domestic violence dynamics will be provided.