Client Advocate II

Job Description

Job Description

Are you passionate about creating opportunities for people to thrive?

Catholic Charities is the place for you!

Client Advocate II

Higher Ground St Paul

The mission of Catholic Charities Twin Cities is to serve those most in need and to advocate for justice in the community.

Our programs for children, families, and adults serve more than 25,000 people every year. As the need for our services grows, Catholic Charities is working to adapt and respond with strategies that prevent poverty, meet basic needs in times of crisis, and create pathways to greater stability.

WHY YOU'LL LOVE WORKING HERE:

Join a mission-driven organization that pairs compassion with accountability and hope with action. At Catholic Charities, you’ll be part of a supportive team dedicated to creating opportunity and advocating for justice. We invest in our employees through training, mentorship, and opportunities for professional growth.

WAGE RANGE: $19.00 - $21/hour

SHIFT: Friday - Sunday from 4:30 pm - 10:30 pm with one weekend off per month

JOB SUMMARY: Under general supervision, the Shelter Advocate provides direct support to individuals experiencing homelessness in a safe, low-barrier, housing-focused environment. Staff build positive relationships with clients, respond to immediate needs, connect clients to resources such as housing, employment, and healthcare, and intervene in crisis situations using trauma-informed and de-escalation practices. Staff ensure the facility remains safe, welcoming, and organized, while upholding program policies in a respectful and consistent manner.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Client Engagement & Support

• Provide compassionate, client-centered support by listening, problem-solving, and assisting with daily needs.
• Offer referrals and guidance related to housing, employment, benefits, recovery, and healthcare.
• Encourage clients toward next steps in their housing plan while respecting client choice and dignity.

Safety & Crisis Response

• Maintain a safe and welcoming environment by monitoring common areas, completing safety rounds, and addressing concerns.
• Respond to crises and incidents using de-escalation and conflict resolution skills.
• Administer Narcan and other harm-reduction interventions as required.
• Complete and submit incident reports related to chemical use, threats, safety concerns, or program rule violations.
• Serve as a Mandated Reporter and follow all reporting requirements.

Operations & Documentation

• Accurately collect, enter, and manage client data in the system of record.
• Complete client intakes, enrollments, and exits in accordance with program requirements.
• Enforce shelter and drop-in center rules and policies fairly and consistently, balancing accountability with empathy.
• Assist with daily operations including client check-in, belongings storage, laundry, meal service (drop-in center), and ensuring facility cleanliness.
• Check clients’ belongings for prohibited items at entry to support safety.

Collaboration & Professional Development

• Work closely with supervisors, case managers, and community partners to support client housing goals.
• Participate in team meetings, trainings, and mentorship to strengthen shelter practices.
• Contribute to program development and quality improvement efforts as assigned.

Other duties as assigned

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Must be 21 years of age and successfully pass a criminal and Department of Human Services background check.
• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Prior experience in a Shelter or Drop-In Center a plus.
• Has the ability to work with diverse and/or low-income populations, including those who may be experiencing homelessness, unstable housing, and/or mental illness.
• Commitment to trauma-informed care, harm reduction, and housing-first principles.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to remain calm, professional, and empathetic under pressure.
• Flexibility to respond to changing needs in a fast-paced environment.
• Basic computer proficiency, including familiarity with Windows-based programs.

JOB CLASSIFICATION: On-Call; Casual; Hourly; Non-Exempt

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

CPR

Yes

Driving

No

Operating specialized machinery (additional assessment may be required)

No

Walking or standing > 2 hours/shift

Yes

Lifting up to 25lbs without assistance

Yes

Lifting up to 50lbs without assistance

No

Physically restraining clients

No

Catholic Charities is an equal opportunity employer.

Job Description Updated: 09/25/2024.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of all functions that are required of the employee for this job.