Shelter Advocate

Position: SHELTER ADVOCATE - 7am - 3pm
As a Shelter Advocate you will provide all services required by residential program participants and crisis help line callers.

Hours:

7am-3pm Monday through Friday Responsibilities:

Assess participants’ needs

Answer the crisis hotline and provide callers, as well as all program participants, with empowerment-based crisis counseling, guidance, emotional support, information, and referrals. Determine if the victim is seeking emergency shelter and offer assistance as needed

Assess lethality of participant’s situation

Assist participant with the development and implementation of a safety plan Provide information on the dynamics of domestic violence

Provide empowerment-based counseling (face-to-face and/or via telephone) in either individual or group settings

Provide assistance in filing for restraining orders, injunctions, protective orders, immigration, and other petitions. Support, assist, and advocate for victims at any stage in the criminal justice system

Assist with filing for compensation claims which includes making victim aware of the availability of crime victim compensation, assistance with completing the required forms, and gathering the needed documentation.

Assist victims in securing rights, remedies, and services from other agencies. Offer aid in locating emergency financial assistance, TANF benefits, and other resources. Intervene with others on behalf of the victim. Provide referrals, vouchers, and/or supplies for items such as transportation, food, clothing, and emergency housing

Assist with reporting elder abuse, child abuse, or other required reporting

Maintain and report statistical measurements as required

Maintain documentation as required

Refer/advocate to community resources as necessary

Adhere to the Shelter’s policies and procedures

Associate’s Degree in related field such as Human Services, Counseling, or Social Services Bi-lingual preferred

Two years minimum experience in domestic violence intervention and prevention preferred

Training and experience in crisis intervention counseling preferred

Ability to advocate on behalf of victims

Calm under pressure

Strong organization and computer skills

Valid Massachusetts driver’s licenseYWCA is an affirmative action/equal employment opportunity employer.

Survivors of domestic or sexual violence, people of color, people with disabilities, people who are bilingual/bicultural, and members of the LGBTQ community are strongly encouraged to apply.

Expected hours: 35 per week Benefits:403(b)
Dental insurance

Employee assistance program

Employee discount

Flexible spending account

Health insurance

Life insurance

Paid time off Parental leave

Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person
#J-18808-Ljbffr