Day Shelter Advocate

Job Title: Day Shelter Advocate

Reports to Day Shelter Lead Advocate

Full-time, Non-Exempt

Shift: Sunday - Thursday

About the Homeless Alliance:

The Homeless Alliance works to rally our community to end homelessness by bringing together organizations to collaborate, identifying and filling gaps in services, streamlining processes, and using research-based strategies and national best practices to get people off the streets. The mid-sized organization has served Oklahoma City for 20 years and is considered a subject matter expert on homelessness. Our company values of collaboration, community, creativity, nimbleness, and compassion guide our work to build a system that is more efficient, rational, and caring.

Job Summary

The Day Shelter Advocate role is primarily responsible for advocating for the basic daily needs of the guests and establishing a welcoming first impression for guests, volunteers and visitors. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, general administrative duties, checking guests into the shelter upon arrival, communicating with guests about programs/services, ensuring daily cleaning, and keeping the shelter maintained.

Responsibilities

Complete all tasks required to open and/or close the shelter

Act as an advocate for guests, either by request or by seeking out those who need services.

Develop trustworthy relationships with clients

Understand the services provided by visiting agencies to the Day Shelter; build effective relationships with the agency representatives that result in positive engagements with guests.

Bring creativity and initiative to the development of the day shelter and its services

Help individuals experiencing homelessness access community resources and support

Engage with guests during meals

Have reliable transportation, and be willing to transport day shelter guests

Visit with guests and assess needs

Serve all day shelter guests by greeting, welcoming and directing them appropriately

Assist guests in checking into the shelter

Coordinate with agency representatives (internal and external), police, security staff, volunteers and visitors

Maintain filing, organization and a clean work area

Note: It is the responsibility of all staff members to treat all clients, volunteers, guests, and other employees in a courteous and respectful manner at all times.

Work Environment

Regular interaction in public service areas, with some office based work.

Hectic and unpredictable situations can occur in public areas.

Fast-paced environment with potential exposure to emotionally charged situations.

May encounter environments with strong odors and varying levels of sanitation.

Qualifications

Requirements

Able to work morning and afternoon shifts, including weekends

Effective people skills, including listening and communication

Ability to demonstrate empathy and relatability with guests of different backgrounds, including mental health, substance abuse, etc.

Ability to de-escalate conflicts with shelter guests

Perform other duties as requested in a professional, courteous and helpful manner

Able to work flexibly with the different demands of the role

Education and Work Experience

High School Diploma or GED, required

Proficient in various computer applications, including MS programs (Word, Excel), email, internet search, and Microsoft 365

Physical Requirements

Sitting or standing for extended periods of time

Ability to work at a computer

Lift up to 25 pounds.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The Homeless Alliance is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, and local laws.

We encourage individuals from all backgrounds, including those with lived experience of homelessness, to apply. If you require reasonable accommodation during the hiring process or in the performance of your job, please let us know.