Advocate

WINGS Program is looking for a driven, empathetic multitasker for our House Advocate position!

Established in 1985 as a nonprofit advocate for homeless women and children, we have expanded to become one of the largest domestic violence service and housing
providers in Illinois
. Today, single individuals (women/men/transgender) and their children can receive temporary safe shelter through WINGS housing, while our staff provides one-on-one, individualized assistance in setting personal goals that will enable them to work, continue their education, and care for themselves and their children. Simply put, we provide a pathway to independence for people whose lives have been disrupted by domestic violence.

To maintain the smooth operation of the Safe House and Crisis Line, and support clients as needed.

• Operate the Crisis Line by providing crisis intervention, counseling, education, safety planning, and referrals to callers.
• Conduct and approve intake and eligibility evaluations to determine guest’s needs and appropriateness for services at the Safe House.
• Interact with guests in the community areas of the house and role model social skills, conflict resolution, parenting and other skills of daily living (this may include time management, self-care, conflict and stress management, parenting, budgeting and others).
• Supervise and coordinate activities related to house policies and chores.
• Identify guest needs and communicate these needs to the responsible staff member to secure donations and services.
• Ensure building is safe and secure, reporting any concerns to appropriate personnel.
• Maintain timely, accurate records including up-to-date client files, statistics report, and census.
• Update daily roster and shift reports.
• Assist with meals and mealtime during the shift.
• Assist in processing and storing donations as requested.
• Attend and participate in supervision, weekly group meetings, and other meetings as required.
• Conduct, attend, and participate in appropriate training and education.
• Immediately report child abuse to Department of Children and Family Services as mandated by law and in accordance with agency procedures.
• Work evenings, weekends and holidays as needed.

• Associates degree in social service, counseling, or closely related field, or equivalent job experience required.
• 40-hour domestic violence training and CPR/First Aid preferred.
• Food Safety and Sanitation Certification preferred.
• Bilingual skills (Spanish, Polish, or Russian) preferred.
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
• Possess the ability to work efficiently and independently and be highly organized with attention to detail along with strong project management, interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
• Skilled in working with sensitive issues and in maintaining professional boundaries with clients.
• Must demonstrate professionalism, flexibility, good judgment, and commitment to teamwork.
• Ability to handle physical requirements to accomplish daily responsibilities, including but not limited to lifting up to 35 pounds using both hands/arms on a regular basis, and occasionally standing for extended periods.

Part-time Benefits - Position is 30 hours a week