About this role
Primary Function : As a part of Safe Harbor’s Shelter Team , this position will work to strengthen service delivery and maintain the operation of the shelter program . As its primary function, the
Shelter Advocate will provide support, advocacy, resource coordination and referral s to survivors of domes tic abuse
residing in Safe Harbor’s
emergency shelter program . This position is respo nsible for
safety planning, crisis intervention,
goal setting, resource coordination, and planning an d facilitating domestic abuse education and support groups for survivors. The Shelter Advocate works collaboratively with both internal and external programs and agencies to meet the various needs of survivors.
This is a part-time hourly exempt position not eligible for full benefits.
Reports To:
Shelter Advocacy Coordinator
Job Responsibilities
Complete trauma informed client intake s and assessment s to determine appropriateness for shelter prog ram and identify the best cour se of action to meet survivor’s needs .
Work with survivors to create, implement, monitor , and update individualized safety plans .
Provide trauma informed advocacy , referrals ,
education, and support
to survivors of domestic abus e . Assist survivors with obtaining assistance with basic needs, including, but not limited to housing, employment,
legal and medical resources .
Assist with d evelop ing housing partnerships within the community to enhance access to housing opportunities for domestic abuse survivors residing in emergency shelter .
Assist with coordination of services for children, youth and families residing in emergency shelter , including, but not limited to
parenting support , childcare resources, and assistance with sch ool enrollments .
Facilitate and lead discussions and/or groups with clients aimed at developing an understanding of trauma, promotion of healthy relationships and strength building, as well as increasing overall knowledge base of life skills and community supports .
B uild and maintain collaborative relationships with local community agencies, service providers, and community reso urces that are regularly utilize d by survivors of domestic abuse .
Maintain a current guide of com munity resources, assist survivors with navigating referrals , and establish ing access points to needed services.
Observe all standards of confidentiality ,
maintain client database, and ensure accurate , detailed, and timely documentation of client files and
admin istration of client surveys.
Assist
with
day-to-day
shelter operation by creating a shelter cul ture that exemplifies teamwork and respect; promotes safety; responds to client concerns and challenges i n a trauma informed manner; and strives to create a caring and inclusive environment marked by empathy, understanding, and acceptance.
Attend staff , team and supervisory meeting as scheduled .
Lend enthusiastic support to agency policies, events, and to fellow co-workers .
To assume such other duties as assigned by the Shelter Advocacy Coordinator or Director of Housing and Shelter Advocacy .
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s Degree or Associate Degree in Human Services or related field with 1 year experience (preferred).
- Ability to work with diverse individuals in an empathetic and nonjudgmental manner.
- Demonstrates respect for others’ experiences, language, culture, and knowledge.
- Ability to demonstrate organizational skills and ability to navigate complex situations in a crisis oriented
environment.
- Commitment to team work and collaboration .
- Ability to manage confidential information in an appropriate manner .
- Ability to work flexible hours, in cluding some evening and weekend shifts.
- Good verbal and written skills in English (bilingual language skills are a plus).
- Proficient in Microsoft Office.
- Possession of a valid SC Driver’s License .
- Knowledge of th e dynamics of domestic abuse and demonstrated
track record in advocacy (preferred).
- Ability to facilitate weekly domestic abuse education groups.
- Publi c speaking experience (preferred).