Shelter Advocate

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

The Shelter Advocate (Grave Shift) provides crisis intervention, advocacy and social service support, safety planning, and resource coordination to individuals impacted by domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and related crimes. This position works the graveyard shift from 12:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m., providing overnight crisis response through the 24-hour hotline, supporting shelter operations, and helping ensure the safety and well-being of shelter residents. The Advocate assists survivors in navigating complex systems such as law enforcement, the legal system, Human Services, medical providers, and community programs while promoting survivor empowerment, safety, and self-sufficiency. Responsibilities also include supporting shelter operations, maintaining a safe and secure environment during overnight hours, and completing thorough documentation in alignment with Alliance for Community Transformations' mission, values, and trauma-informed approach.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide trauma-informed crisis intervention, emotional support, safety planning, and advocacy to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and other crimes through the 24-hour crisis hotline and in-person shelter response during overnight hours
• Conduct client assessments, complete shelter intakes, develop service plans, provide case management, and connect clients with community resources and supportive services
• Respond to overnight crisis situations, ensuring the safety and well-being of shelter residents while maintaining a calm, supportive, and secure environment
• Monitor shelter activities by completing resident checks, enforcing shelter guidelines, documenting overnight incidents, maintaining facility security, and assisting with daily shelter operations
• Advocate for and accompany clients through medical, legal, law enforcement, and social service processes as needed, including protective orders, court proceedings, and emergency services
• Maintain timely, accurate, and confidential documentation, case notes, incident reports, communication logs, and grant-required data in compliance with agency policies and mandatory reporting requirements
• Collaborate with law enforcement, emergency responders, healthcare providers, and community partners to ensure coordinated, survivor-centered services
• Participate in an after-hours on-call rotation as assigned and perform other duties that support the agency's mission and 24-hour crisis response services

Case Management & Supportive Services

• Assess clients’ short- and long-term needs
• Assist clients in creating goal plans and identifying barriers
• Provide transportation when necessary and safe
• Serve as a liaison between clients and community partners
• Assist with documentation needed for Human Services or partner agencies
• Support clients through child welfare/social services processes when appropriate

Shelter Operations

• Patrol and ensure safety of facilities and residents
• Conduct shelter intakes, orientations, and enforce guidelines
• Monitor residents, complete room checks, and document overnight issues
• Maintain facility cleanliness and report maintenance needs
• Provide childcare support or children’s activities when necessary