Direct Service Advocate - Shelter & Crisis Support (Remote)

Ywworks; Springfield, Northern (MA, KY); Hybrid; USD 11,021,000 - 13,776,000; Part time

Job summary

The Direct Service Advocate (DSA) at the YWCA of Western Massachusetts provides support and advocacy for adults, teens, and children in residential programs. You will work as part of a team with peers, supervisors, clinicians, and external connections to deliver safe, trauma-informed services.

Responsibilities include crisis intervention, intake processes, counseling on arrival, and ongoing support while maintaining confidential client records.

Qualifications

• Associate’s degree plus 1–3 years of experience in human services.
• Experience working in residential setting preferred.
• Familiarity with issues of domestic violence.
• Experience with survivors of gender-based violence and exploitation.
• Experience addressing the impacts of decisions and actions on multiple communities.
• Understanding of both interpersonal and structural racism and bias.
• Ability to represent agency from a management perspective in an active union environment.
• Excellent written and organizational skills including computer skills.
• Reliable transportation, safe driving record, and valid driver’s license required. Must be able to be covered by the agency's insurance policy.
• Must be able to lift 40 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Conduct shelter intakes as needed.
• Provide crisis intervention as needed.
• Help residents become acquainted with shelter and other residents upon arrival.
• Provide counseling to resident upon arrival and as needed throughout their stay.
• Responsible for maintenance and upkeep of the facility and property (including, but not limited to: vacuuming, laundry area, shoveling, mopping, and take trash out).
• Enforce shelter rules and guidelines.
• Engage with residents at meal time and ensure that residents clean up their area prior to leaving dining area.
• Ensure completion of chores as applicable.
• Complete all required paperwork and maintain client records.
• Attend monthly staff meetings.
• Perform other related duties as needed.

Skills

Written communication

Organizational skills

Computer skills

Reliable transportation

Education

Associate’s degree

Job description

The Direct Service Advocate (DSA) at the YWCA of Western Massachusetts provides support and advocacy for adults, teens, and children in residential programs. You will work as part of a team with peers, supervisors, clinicians, and external connections to deliver safe, trauma-informed services.

Responsibilities include crisis intervention, intake processes, counseling on arrival, and ongoing support while maintaining confidential client records.