Shelter Advocate

Job Description

Job Description

Description:

The Shelter Advocate provides direct, trauma-informed support to domestic violence survivors and their children residing in the One SAFE Place emergency shelter. This role is primarily relational and operational: the Shelter Advocate walks alongside residents in their day-to-day shelter experience, providing peer support, facilitating intake and exit, and helping residents engage with the services and goals identified in their case plan. The Shelter Advocate works in support of the case management relationship held by the Shelter Case Manager, ensuring continuity of care and a consistent, survivor-centered presence for residents throughout their stay. This position also provides light operational support as needed to keep the shelter environment running smoothly.

Duties and Responsibilities

Client Support and Advocacy

• Facilitate shelter intake and exit procedures and paperwork, welcoming new residents into a safe and trauma-informed environment.
• Provide ongoing day-to-day support and advocacy to residents, including children, in alignment with the case plan developed by the resident and Shelter Case Manager.
• Assist residents with daily activities and provide supportive, trauma-informed check-ins.
• Support residents through crisis moments, respond to immediate needs, and communicate concerns promptly to the Shelter Case Manager and relevant team members.
• Reinforce and support exit planning goals as established in the resident's case plan.
• Create welcome care packages for new residents.
• Assist with childcare as needed to support residents and program activities.
• Provide Crisis Hotline coverage, which may include nights, evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Documentation

• Document daily interactions, interventions, and services provided in the agency case management database in alignment with agency and grant guidelines
• Complete and submit all required client forms and documentation accurately and on time.
• Complete incident reports as needed and communicate relevant updates to the Shelter Case Manager and coordinated team members.
• Participate in case staffing and team meetings as a contributing team member, providing observational updates on resident needs and progress
• Maintain confidentiality of all client and agency information in accordance with policy

Light Shelter Operations Support

• Assist with general cleaning, room turnover, and laundry particularly during high-volume periods or staff coverage gaps.
• Help with closet, shed, and storage organization as needed.
• Assist with assembling and tearing down shelter equipment and newly purchased items as needed.
• Provide client transportation as needed

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Understanding of trauma-informed care principles and best practices in supporting survivors of violence.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build trust with residents in a shelter environment
• Ability to recognize resident needs and concerns and communicate those appropriately
• Ability to work effectively within a supervisory structure and as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Awareness of relevant laws, confidentiality requirements, and community resources.
• Ability to learn and use proprietary software systems, including case management databases.
• Demonstrated proficiency in basic computer use, including Microsoft Word, Outlook, and similar applications.
• Experience working with culturally and linguistically diverse populations and a commitment to equitable, trauma-informed service delivery.
• Ability to balance direct client support with light operational responsibilities in a fast-paced shelter environment
• Commitment to the mission and values of One SAFE Place.

Education and Experience

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; AA or BA in social work, human services, psychology, or a related field preferred.
• At least one year of experience working with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and/or trauma, or equivalent lived experience.
• Valid California driver's license and access to reliable transportation required.
• Satisfactory completion of One SAFE Place's DV/SA Counselor training (post-hire requirement)
• Ability to pass a background investigation including fingerprinting

Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing and walking throughout the shelter while supporting residents and program activities.
• Frequent bending, stooping, kneeling, squatting, and reaching while supporting daily activities, group setup, and light cleaning tasks.
• Frequent climbing of stairs to access resident rooms, group spaces, and storage areas.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 30 pounds, including supplies, group materials, laundry, and donation items.
• Ability to safely operate household appliances, basic cleaning equipment, and a vehicle for client transportation.
• Sitting for up to 2 hours, not continuously, while completing documentation, intake paperwork, and case staffing.
• Manual dexterity and corrected vision sufficient to read documents, complete documentation, and operate equipment safely.
• Ability to hear and communicate clearly in person and by phone to support residents and coordinate with team members.
• Occasional exposure to residents experiencing emotional distress or sensitive situations, with the ability to remain calm, respectful, and trauma-informed.

Benefits

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• 401k with matching Retirement Deferral
• Prestige Urgent Care Membership
• Paid Time Off

Please note that One SAFE Place serves survivors of all genders. If you are also a survivor, we trust that you are in a place of personal healing where you can remain client-focused and manage personal challenges that may arise. You are always encouraged to check in with the director and your supervisor as needed for additional support.