Per Diem Overnight Shelter Advocate

Position Overview

Job Summary:

The Per Diem Overnight Shelter Advocate will provide services under the supervision and direction of the Director of Residential & Senior Shelter Advocate. The Advocate will incorporate Housing First Models as the primary modality in the home, to assess and match the client's needs, and coordinate within the team setting including but not limited to the Shelter Coordinator, the Child Advocate, and Residential Counselor.

Title:

Per Diem Shelter Advocate
Department:
Residential
Salary Range: $20-$22 per hour
Status:
Per Diem
Grade:
Non-exempt

• BA/BSW or commensurate experience.
• Bilingual (Spanish-English) required.
• Must demonstrate cultural competency through either experience or education.
• Must have some knowledge and understanding of domestic violence and trauma.

• Excellent verbal, written, and public speaking skills.
• Knowledge of computer programs including but not limited to Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook).
• Valid Driver's License and reliable transportation.
• Ability to work with diverse communities.
• A highly motivated self-starter.
• A Per Diem Shelter Advocate must maintain a reasonable presence and be available for emergency situations.

• Answer and help the 24-hour domestic violence hotline.
• Refer clients to YWCA internal programs providing counseling, workforce development, children's services, legal services, and other needed services, as well as appropriate community resources for services not covered by YWCA Union County.
• Refer and link clients to appropriate services in the community that promote greater self-sufficiency. Monitor the client's follow-through with these services.
• Maintain Client's files.
• Perform client intake and needs assessment including completion of all required paperwork for residents.
• Conduct initial pre-screen of clients to determine the need for support in all domains of client's life to deliver affirming, inclusive, and survivor-centered case management services as well as an in-stabilization housing plan.
• Coordinate clients' participation in community events as needed.
• Attending staff meetings, conferences and training as directed.
• Represent agency as required at community events, health fairs, etc.
• Conduct outside presentations as required.
• Responsible for modeling healthy boundaries, respectful behavior, and open communication.
• Provide Director of Residential Services and Shelter Coordinator with information on potential problems and assist in the development of solutions and/or innovative approaches to problems.
• Responsible for cleaning client's room and preparing for new clients.
• Other duties as assigned by Director of Residential and Shelter Coordinator.

• Ability to always project a professional demeanor.
• Possess strong interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Exercises mature judgment.
• Proficient knowledge in processing confidential information.
• Ability to effectively coordinate multiple projects/tasks.
• Good problem solving and conflict resolution skills.

While performing the job, this position typically involves sitting, standing, climbing stairs, walking, carrying (25lbs), lifting (25lbs), bending, stooping, and reaching. This position also requires operating a computer keyboard, firm/strong grasping, and repetitive hand control. The position also requires the ability to complete forms in personal writing, make and receive telephone calls, and operate office machines (copier, fax, and printer). This position is also subjected to outside environmental conditions.

• A person of unquestioned honesty and integrity; values transparency.
• A person who values substance in their work.
• Self-assured, yet self-effacing in support of an effective team.
• Willing to provide extra effort whenever necessary to accomplish goals.
• Well-developed political skills and personal diplomacy.
• Self-directed and goal-oriented, while remaining flexible as needed.
• An individual with a passion for serving the public good.
• Spark, imagination, and creativity.

This job description is a broad outline of the responsibilities and duties of the Per Diem Shelter Advocate and will be amended as needed to meet the program priorities of the YWCA Union County and ensuring work requirements. This job description should not be construed as a contract. The YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women, and promoting peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.

• Commitment to the mission and working together for the well-being of the community
• Integrity in relationships, practices, and decisions.
• Respect for each one's roles, diversity, and viewpoints.
• Compassion in understanding, attitude, and action.
• Empowerment to create positive choices, recognize potential, and reach goals.
• Excellence in practice and expectation.