Clay Street Overnight Shelter
Listed on 2026-06-11
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Social Work
Family Advocacy & Support Services, Community Health, Crisis Counselor -
Non-Profit & Social Impact
Community Health
Make a Difference Where It Matters Most
The YMCA of the Roses is seeking compassionate and dependable Overnight Shelter Associates to join our Low Barrier Shelter team at the Clay Street Shelter in Lancaster City. In this important overnight role, you'll help create a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment for shelter guests while providing support and care throughout the night.
Overnight Shelter Associates play a key role in maintaining the safety and dignity of all guests during shelter operations from 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
If you are passionate about helping others and making a meaningful impact in your community, we encourage you to apply.
Why Join the YMCA of the Roses?Employees enjoy:
- FREE membership to all YMCA of the Roses branches
- Access to outdoor pools, fitness centers, gyms, and wellness facilities
- Discounts on YMCA programs and lessons
- The opportunity to serve and strengthen the Lancaster community every day
POSITION SUMMARY:
The Overnight Shelter Staff at Otterbein Shelter in Lancaster, PA plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of the shelter during nighttime hours. This position is responsible for providing direct assistance to shelter residents, facilitating intake procedures, assigning beds, and supporting clients in settling into the shelter environment. The Overnight Shelter Staff operates on a rotating schedule with 12-hour shifts, offering consistent coverage and adequate time off for recovery and work-life balance.
OUR CULTURE:
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world.
We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
- Provide support and assistance to shelter residents throughout the night, offering guidance, empathy, and practical help as needed.
- Rotate between various tasks, including check-in procedures, monitoring showers, assigning beds, distributing supplies, and assisting clients with basic needs.
- Maintain a safe, clean, and orderly environment within the shelter, adhering to established protocols and safety guidelines.
- Conduct intake procedures for new arrivals, including completing necessary paperwork, explaining shelter rules and expectations, and orienting individuals to shelter facilities and resources.
- Collaborate with case managers and other staff members to assess residents' needs, identify immediate concerns, and provide appropriate support and referrals.
- Offer emotional support, active listening, and crisis intervention to individuals experiencing homelessness, demonstrating empathy, compassion, and cultural sensitivity.
- Assist clients in accessing additional services and resources, such as meals, clothing, hygiene supplies, medical care, and housing assistance, as available and appropriate.
- Work collaboratively with other Overnight Shelter Staff members, as well as daytime staff, case managers, and external partners, to ensure continuity of care and effective communication across shifts.
- Participate in staff meetings, trainings, and debriefing sessions to share information, address concerns, and enhance teamwork and service delivery.
- Follow a rotating schedule with 12-hour shifts, organized into a 2-2-3 pattern (Table
1), providing consistent coverage and allowing for adequate rest and recovery time. - Enjoy the benefit of two or three consecutive days off in a row, as well as every other weekend off, to promote work-life balance and prevent burnout.
LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES:
- Engaging Community
- Collaboration
- Inclusion
QUALIFICATIONS:
- High school diploma or equivalent (preferred).
- Previous experience working in a shelter, residential facility, or…
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