Evening Shelter Advocate

The evening shelter advocate will provide services under the supervision and direction of the Director of Residential Services. This position is responsible for providing crisis intervention and support to individuals experiencing domestic violence and related crises. This position responds to domestic violence hotline calls and Sexual Assault Response Team (SART) and Crisis Response Team (CRT) activations, conducts safety assessments and shelter screenings, and connects clients with appropriate resources and support services.

The evening shelter advocate supports daily shelter operations by facilitating client admissions, preparing living spaces, and maintaining a safe, welcoming environment for residents. Using a trauma-informed and client-centered approach, the evening shelter advocate assists clients in navigating complex service systems, addressing barriers related to language access, immigration status, and trauma, while promoting safety, stability, and access to essential community resources.

The evening shelter advocate also works hand in hand with Housing Advocate to ensure the successful identification and retention of permanent housing, consisting of advocacy for domestic violence/sexual assault survivors with landlords. Knowledge of survivor rights would be an optimal skill in this role. Knowledge of subsidy programs is preferred.

• 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.
• Must be flexible for some evening and weekend shifts.

• Answer and help with the 24-hour domestic violence hotline.
• Refers 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.
• Maintain Client’s files.
• Maintain a caseload of clients.
• 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.
• Develop a comprehensive care plan jointly with the residents that includes short- and long- term goals focused on attaining, maintaining, and achieving positive psychosocial outcomes.
• At least twice weekly, evaluate and update the client care plan based upon changes to factors detailed in reassessment.
• Develop and maintain individual housing plans upon resident’s entry into The Residential Program and over the course of their residency through to discharge.
• Implement resident case plans in coordination with the Residential Team.
• Coordinate clients’ participation in community events as needed.
• Responsible for cleaning client’s room and preparing for new clients.
• Attending staff meetings, conferences and training as directed.
• Representing agency as required at community events, health fairs, etc.
• Responsible for modeling healthy boundaries, respectful behavior, and open communication
• Provide Director of Residential Services with information on potential problems and assist in the development of solutions and/or innovative…