Shelter Advocate

Job Description

Job Description

Shelter Advocate Part-time Nights

Who We Are

Model Cities, a champion of social and economic prosperity, has been providing access to opportunities that stabilize and develop families and communities since 1967. Our work has been a lifeline for marginalized and underserved communities, with a special emphasis on the economic stability and vibrancy of Black Minnesotans in Saint Paul. We offer a range of services that address barriers to homelessness, housing, homeownership, economic development, and financial wellness. Our commitment to a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace ensures that our services are always in tune with the evolving needs of our community, and your role as a Shelter Operations Day Coordinator will be instrumental in this mission.

About the Position

As a Shelter Advocate, you will add critical value to our operations under the direct supervision of the Program Manager or their designee. Your responsibilities will include maintaining a regular presence at Safe Space, supporting clients, and offering guidance to staff and volunteers. Your role is instrumental in ensuring the shelter operates efficiently, and guests' basic needs are met.

This role will involve working closely with the Shelter Operations Coordinator to provide reliable shelter coverage 365 days a year. The Shelter Advocate will participate in routine staffing coverage in rotation with other staff members, including days and weekends.

For this role, we are looking for candidates with demonstrated leadership experience and the ability to thrive in high-stress environments. Strong people skills are necessary, as you will interact with shelter guests and collaborate with staff, volunteers, community partners, and other stakeholders.

The Role

Ensures client data is entered into the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) database system accurately and timely. Maintains confidentiality of all pertinent client information to ensure client rights are protected.

Actively participates in All Staff meetings, shelter team meetings, and other related agency meetings, as needed. Assists Program Manager and Shelter Operations Coordinator in planning and facilitating shelter team meetings at least a monthly basis.

Assists in coordinating the inventory of shelter supplies. Works with other shelter staff to organize and manage the inventory of supplies needed for Safe Space shelter. Alert the Program Manager and Shelter Operations Coordinator of the shelter supplies required.

Works with Program Manager and other agency staff to provide information as needed for reporting to funders, board of directors, and others.

Stay current on the latest developments, opportunities, and trends that could influence Safe Space and potentially impact the agency's strategies and how we deliver our services.

Essential duties and responsibilities:

• Responsible for maintaining a regular presence at Safe Space, supporting clients, and offering guidance to staff and volunteers to ensure the shelter operates efficiently and guests' basic needs are met.
• Works closely with the shelter team to assess guest needs and provide advocacy and referrals for housing, probation, healthcare, mental health, chemical dependency, and other services.
• Actively participates in All Staff meetings, shelter team meetings, and other related agency meetings, as needed. Assists program manager and shelter operations coordinator in planning and facilitating monthly shelter team meetings.
• Works with Program Manager and other agency staff to provide information as needed for reporting to funders, board of directors, and others.
• Maintains cleanliness to standard
• Respond to and complete incident reports for medical emergencies, chemical abuse, theft, threats, and violations of shelter guidelines.

• In solid collaboration with the Program Manager and Shelter Operations Coordinator, provides shelter staff and volunteers training on shelter-specific policies and practices.

• Other duties assigned

Minimum Qualification:

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Leadership experience
• De-escalation skills and experience
• Must possess a valid driver’s license
• Must possess reliable transportation
• Must be able to pass a background check.

Competencies Required

• Social services/work experience
• Cooperative skills
• Communication skills
• Administrative skills
• People skills
• Intrapersonal skills
• Adaptability skills
• Ability to operate Microsoft Office and other software programs
• Ability to use essential office equipment (copier, fax, scanner, etc.)
• Critical thinking skills
• Ability to work independently and in team environments

Preferred Requirements

• Experience working with vulnerable populations and/or individuals with lower incomes.
• Advance leadership and critical thinking skills
• Advanced de-escalation skills and technique
• Advanced communication skills

Job Requirements

• Must be able to sit for extended periods
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally
• Must be able to stand, bend, and twist frequently
• Weekend availability

Schedule:

• Workdays may vary depending on business requirements.
• Weekend and evening availability are required.
• Shift hours depend on business needs and will be at least 20 hours.

PTO

• Twenty-four hours of paid time off (PTO)
• Double pay on regularly scheduled recognized holidays
• Employee Sick and Safe Leave 

Benefits

• Competitive Pay
• Vision
• Dental
• Life insurance
• Pet insurance 
• Legal 

EEO Statement :

Model Cities is dedicated to attracting, retaining, and engaging employees from diverse backgrounds. Diversity is an important part of our values and business operations. We are committed to creating an environment that promotes inclusivity and development for everyone. Model Cities does not discriminate based on age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital status, status regarding public assistance, status as a disabled veteran or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law. All qualified applicants will be considered for employment, and reasonable accommodations will be provided to qualified candidates.