Shelter Advocate

Model Cities of St. Paul, Inc. is a non‑profit organization dedicated to creating transformational, community‑driven opportunities that address root causes of racial and socio‑economic inequities. Founded in 1967, our mission is to promote social and economic prosperity by providing access to opportunities that stabilize and develop families and communities. Model Cities provides an array of services, including those that address barriers to homelessness and housing, economic development and asset building, and youth development.

Model Cities is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions), marital status, familial status, disability, public assistance status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Model Cities complies with the Minnesota Human Rights Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and is dedicated to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process and during employment.

As a shelter advocate, you will add critical value to our operations, working under the direct supervision of the Program Manager or his/her designee. Your responsibilities include maintaining a regular presence at Safe Space, supporting clients, and offering guidance to staff and volunteers. You will work closely with the Shelter Operations Coordinator to provide reliable shelter coverage 365 days a year, including days and weekends.

• Maintain a regular presence at Safe Space, supporting clients and offering guidance to staff and volunteers to ensure the shelter operates efficiently and guests’ basic needs are met.
• Assess guest needs and provide advocacy and referrals for housing, probation, healthcare, mental health, chemical dependency, and other services.
• Actively participate in all staff meetings, shelter team meetings, and related agency meetings as needed and assist the Program Manager and Shelter Operations Coordinator in planning and facilitating monthly meetings.
• Coordinate the inventory of shelter supplies, organize and manage inventory needed for Safe Space, and alert the Program Manager and Shelter Operations Coordinator of required supplies.
• Provide information as needed for reporting to funders, the board of directors, and other stakeholders.
• Maintain cleanliness to standard and respond to and complete incident reports for medical emergencies, chemical abuse, theft, threats, and violations of shelter guidelines.
• Provide shelter staff and volunteers training on shelter‑specific policies and practices in collaboration with the Program Manager and Shelter Operations Coordinator.
• Perform other duties assigned.

• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Leadership experience.
• De‑escalation skills and experience.
• Valid driver’s license.
• Reliable transportation.
• Ability to pass a background check.

• Social services/work experience.
• Cooperative skills.
• Communication skills.
• Administrative skills.
• People skills.
• Intrapersonal skills.
• Adaptability skills.
• Microsoft Office and related software proficiency.
• Ability to use essential office equipment (copier, fax, scanner, etc.).
• Critical thinking skills.
• Ability to work independently and in team environments.

• Experience working with vulnerable populations and/or individuals with lower incomes.
• Advanced leadership and critical thinking skills.
• Advanced de‑escalation skills and technique.
• Advanced communication skills.

• Must be able to sit for extended periods.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally.
• Must be able to stand, bend, and twist frequently.
• Weekend availability required.

• Workdays may vary depending on business requirements.
• Weekend and evening availability required.
• Shift hours based on business needs but will total 40 hours per week.

Safe Space, Saint Paul, MN

This position is currently accepting applications.