Shelter Advocate

Job Details

Job Location
:
Shelter, Ansonia, CT - Ansonia, CT

Position Type
:
Full Time

Education Level
:
High School

Travel Percentage
:
Up to 25%

Job Shift
:
Afternoon/evening

Job Category
:
Nonprofit - Social Services

Domestic Violence Shelter Advocate

Are you passionate about helping survivors of domestic violence find safety, support, and hope? BHcare is seeking a caring and dedicated Domestic Violence Shelter Advocate to provide direct support to adults and children in our safe house. This role is essential in creating a safe environment while empowering clients to heal, rebuild, and thrive.

This is a full‑time position, 37.5 hours per week. The schedule is Monday‑Friday 3pm‑11pm.

• Welcome new residents and their children, complete intakes, and provide orientation to the shelter.
• Offer crisis intervention, safety planning, and emotional support to survivors and their families.
• Provide individual support and referrals to community resources such as healthcare, education, and social services.
• Facilitate transportation for clients to medical appointments, school, shopping, and activities.
• Collaborate with community partners, including law enforcement, hospitals, and other providers, to ensure client needs are met.
• Maintain a safe, clean, and supportive shelter environment.
• Assist clients with developing and following through on service plans to achieve safety and independence.
• Cover the 24/7 hotline and respond to crisis calls with compassion and professionalism.
• Ensure all documentation is completed promptly and accurately.

• Compassionate, reliable, and committed to supporting survivors of domestic violence.
• Strong communication and crisis intervention skills.
• Ability to remain calm, empathetic, and professional in challenging situations.
• Comfortable collaborating with both clients and external providers.
• Must remain awake and alert during shifts.
• Valid driver’s license and willingness to use personal vehicle for work‑related purposes.

At BHcare, you’ll be part of a mission‑driven team working to break the cycle of domestic violence and build stronger, safer communities. We offer a supportive environment where your work truly changes lives.

Be a voice of hope. Be an advocate for safety. Apply today to join BHcare as a Domestic Violence Shelter Advocate.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree preferred. In lieu of Bachelor's degree:
  Associates degree or college coursework equivalent (2 years) and 2 years work experience in human services; OR high school diploma and minimum of 4 years of experience in human services.
• Substitution of appropriate college training is allowed but subject to funder’s approval.
• Two years Advocacy and/or direct service experience working with survivors of domestic violence in a community‑based setting preferred.
• Bi‑lingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain the certified domestic violence counselor per CGS 52‑146k before providing direct service to clients, followed with six‑hour recertification yearly.
• Strong Written Communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively with a diverse range of clients.
• Crisis intervention and counseling skills preferred.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft 365. Must be able to navigate through electronic health records system (EHR).
• Must have and maintain a valid driver’s license. Must maintain an acceptable driving record and be insurable at a reasonable rate under the Organization’s auto insurance plan.

PROFESSIONALLICENSURE/

CERTIFICATIONS:

• Must be able to obtain and maintain First Aid/CPR and AED certification