Shelter Advocate

SUMMARY

The Domestic Violence Emergency Services Advocate provides support and advocacy to victims of domestic violence, both in the emergency shelter and via a 24‑hour crisis line.

• Conducts Shelter intakes, including screening, interviews, orientation to the Shelter facilities, room assignments, and completion of intake paperwork.
• Conducts exit interviews and ensures the completion of client‑based data and exit paperwork.
• Maintains coverage of the 24‑hour crisis and business lines; provides quality information and referrals.
• Performs crisis intervention and safety planning for shelter residents and crisis line callers.
• Ensures residents safety through regular facility checks.
• Assists in the implementation of Shelter policies and procedures. Models, explains, and enforces Shelter rules and policies.
• Assigns chores and ensures that the Shelter is neat, clean and in adherence with State and local health standards.
• Maintains effective working relations with residents, staff, volunteers and the general public.
• Collects and enters client data and service data.
• Participates in weekly and monthly staff meetings, client/program meetings and trainings.
• Ensures that all services adhere to the principles of Advocacy Based Counseling (ABC).
• Maintains confidentiality of communication and records in accordance with State and Federal laws.
• Attend weekly and monthly staff and client/program meetings.

This is a general description of the responsibilities for the Domestic Violence Shelter Advocate position; other duties may be assigned by supervisor as needed.