Shelter Advocate

Shelter Advocate

Our Mission:
Cornerstone disrupts violence through advocacy, support, and prevention. We partner with individuals, families, and organizations to build communities free from harm.

Our Core Values: *Survivor
- Centered *Social Justice *Well-Being *Collaboration *Integrity

Summary of Cornerstone
Cornerstone is a $5.5 million organization that provides comprehensive services for individuals and families in the greater Twin Cities metropolitan area who are experiencing or have experienced domestic violence, sexual violence, human trafficking or general crime. Our offices are located in Bloomington, Brooklyn Center and Minneapolis. Learn more at .

Diversity and Inclusion:
We are committed to a nondiscriminatory approach and provide equal opportunity for employment and advancement in all of our departments, programs, and worksites.
BIPOC and LGBTQ+ community are strongly encouraged to apply.

Pay Range: $21.00 - 22.30
Unionized Position
:
Yes
Job Summary
The Shelter Advocate provides trauma-informed, survivor-centered advocacy, crisis response, and supportive services to individuals and families impacted by domestic violence, sexual violence, and/or human trafficking/sexual exploitation. This role supports participants accessing 24/7 shelter, crisis line, and walk-in services while fostering a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment. Advocates provide wraparound support including safety planning, resource coordination, and survivor-led advocacy across multiple systems.

Hours/Schedule

• This is a full-time position requiring flexibility to meet participant and program needs.
• Position is to fill shift for:
  Monday-Friday 8am-4pm
• Schedule may include evenings, weekends, and holidays as assigned.
• Ability to adjust schedule in response to crisis situations and shelter demands.
• Expected to maintain consistent and reliable attendance.

• Bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of one year of experience providing direct services in a trauma-informed or crisis response setting.
• Knowledge of domestic violence, sexual violence, and/or human trafficking dynamics and survivor-centered practices.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to deescalate crisis situations and engage diverse populations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, databases, and technology.
• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation required.

• Provide confidential, trauma-informed advocacy, safety planning, and crisis intervention via phone, in person, and walk-in services.
• Respond to crisis line calls and law enforcement referrals with timely follow-up and support.
• Screen and coordinate access to emergency shelter when space is available.
• Maintain consistent engagement with participants through ongoing check-ins and support.

• Complete intakes, orient new participants, and communicate shelter expectations and available services.
• Support residents with daily living needs including cleaning, meal preparation, food portioning, and parenting support.
• Support unit turnover through cleaning, safety checks, and preparation of spaces for new participants.

• Work collaboratively with team members to ensure coordinated, survivor-centered services.
• Participate in team meetings to share updates on participant needs, goals, and barriers.
• Support onboarding, training, and mentoring of new staff, volunteers, and interns as assigned.

• Maintain accurate and timely documentation in Apricot and other data systems.
• Complete required documentation for critical incidents, including mandated reports and safety concerns and additional administrative duties.